B1474 – Battery Saver Power Relay Circuit Short To Battery

The ODBII code B1474 indicates a short circuit in the battery saver power relay circuit, meaning there is an unintended connection that allows power to flow directly to the battery, potentially causing electrical issues.

The severity of ODBII code B1474 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1473 Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure

• Shorted wiring or connectors
• Faulty battery saver relay
• Malfunctioning power distribution module
• Corroded or damaged electrical connections
• Faulty battery or charging system
• Incorrectly installed aftermarket accessories
• Software or programming issues in the vehicle’s control module

Common misdiagnosis for B1474 Battery Saver Power Relay Circuit Short To Battery

• Faulty battery
• Bad alternator
• Corroded battery terminals
• Wiring issues
• Faulty power relay
• Shorted wiring harness
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly installed aftermarket accessories

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1474, which indicates a “Battery Saver Power Relay Circuit Short To Battery,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Verify the Code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B1474 code.
• Check for any additional codes that may provide more context or related issues.
• Inspect the Battery Saver Relay: Locate the battery saver relay in the vehicle’s fuse box or relay panel.
• Check for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or burnt contacts.
• Test the relay using a multimeter to ensure it operates correctly. You can also swap it with a similar relay (if available) to see if the problem persists.
• Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the battery saver relay for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage.
• Look for loose connections or corrosion that could cause a short circuit.
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity and proper voltage at the relay terminals.
• Examine the Battery and Charging System: Ensure the battery is in good condition and fully charged.
• Check the alternator and charging system to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tight.
• Test the Battery Saver Circuit: With the vehicle in the “on” position (but not running), use a multimeter to check the voltage at the battery saver relay circuit.
• Compare the readings to the specifications in the vehicle’s service manual.
• Check for Short Circuits: Inspect the circuit for any signs of a short to ground or to battery voltage.
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the relay circuit and ground.
• Look for Related Issues: Investigate if there are any other components or systems that may be affected by the battery saver relay, such as the body control module (BCM) or other electronic modules.
• Check for any aftermarket accessories that may have been installed and could interfere with the electrical system.
• Clear the Code and Test Drive: After performing repairs or adjustments, clear the code using the OBD-II scanner.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears.
• Consult Service Manual: If the issue persists, refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific diagnostic procedures related to the battery saver relay circuit.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue after following these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with your vehicle make and model. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1474 code.