B1477 – Wiper Hi/Low Circuit Motor Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1477 indicates a short circuit to ground in the wiper motor’s high/low circuit, suggesting an electrical fault that may cause the windshield wipers to malfunction.

The severity of ODBII code B1477 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1476 Wiper High Speed Circuit Motor Failure

• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Shorted wiper motor
• Faulty wiper switch
• Grounding issues
• Corroded terminals
• Water intrusion in electrical components
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1477 Wiper Hi/Low Circuit Motor Short To Ground

• Wiper motor failure
• Faulty wiper switch
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Blown fuse
• Body control module (BCM) issues
• Grounding problems
• Incorrectly installed wiper assembly
• Relay failure

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with an OBD-II code B1477, which indicates a “Wiper Hi/Low Circuit Motor Short to Ground,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Visual Inspection: **Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors related to the windshield wiper motor for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion. Pay special attention to areas where the wiring may be exposed to moisture or physical wear.
• **Look for Shorts: Look for any wires that may be pinched, chafed, or touching the vehicle’s chassis, which could cause a short to ground.
• Check the Wiper Motor: **Test the Motor: If accessible, test the wiper motor by applying direct power to it to see if it operates correctly. If it does not work, the motor may be faulty and require replacement.
• **Inspect Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connection for the wiper motor is secure and free of corrosion.
• Check Fuses: **Inspect Fuses: Check the fuse related to the wiper system. A blown fuse may indicate an underlying issue, such as a short circuit.
• Test the Wiper Switch: **Functionality Check: Test the wiper switch for proper operation. A malfunctioning switch can send incorrect signals to the wiper motor.
• **Continuity Test: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the switch when it is activated.
• Use a Multimeter: **Voltage Check: With the ignition on, use a multimeter to check for voltage at the wiper motor connector. If there is no voltage, trace back to the switch and wiring for issues.
• **Resistance Check: Measure the resistance of the wiper motor. A very low resistance (close to zero) may indicate a short circuit within the motor itself.
• Scan Tool Diagnosis: **Use a Diagnostic Scanner: If available, use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context to the issue.
• **Live Data Monitoring: Monitor live data related to the wiper system to see if the switch inputs and motor outputs are functioning as expected.
• Repair or Replace Components: **Repair Wiring: If any damaged wiring or connectors are found, repair or replace them as necessary.
• **Replace Faulty Components: If the wiper motor or switch is determined to be faulty, replace them.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive: **Clear the Codes: After repairs, clear the trouble codes using a scanner.
• **Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and that the code does not return.
• Consult Service Manual: If the problem persists, consult the vehicle’s service manual for specific wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures related to the wiper system.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to diagnose or fix the issue, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic who has experience with electrical systems. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1477 code.