B1614 – Wiper Rear Mode Select Switch Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1614 indicates a short circuit to ground in the rear wiper mode select switch circuit, which affects the operation of the rear wiper system.

The severity of ODBII code B1614 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1613 Wiper Rear Mode Select Switch Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Faulty rear wiper mode select switch
• Short circuit in the wiring harness
• Corroded or loose connections
• Water intrusion or moisture in the switch or connectors
• Faulty body control module (BCM)

Common misdiagnosis for B1614 Wiper Rear Mode Select Switch Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty rear wiper motor
• Defective wiper control module
• Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly diagnosed switch failure
• Issues with the main wiper switch
• Grounding problems unrelated to the switch circuit

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1614 indicates a problem with the rear wiper mode select switch circuit, specifically a short to ground. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve this issue:

• Visual Inspection:
• Check the wiring and connectors associated with the rear wiper mode select switch. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Inspect the switch itself for any physical damage or wear.
• Check for Shorts:
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring harness. Disconnect the battery and the switch, then test the wires for continuity to ground. If you find continuity where there shouldn’t be, you likely have a short.
• Test the Switch:
• With the switch disconnected, test the switch for proper operation using a multimeter. Check for resistance values according to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the switch is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
• Inspect Ground Connections:
• Ensure that all ground connections related to the rear wiper system are clean and secure. A poor ground can cause erratic behavior and trigger fault codes.
• Check for Other Codes:
• Scan the vehicle for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues. Address any other codes before focusing solely on B1614.
• Examine the Body Control Module (BCM):
• If the wiring and switch are in good condition, the issue may lie within the BCM. Check for any software updates or known issues with the BCM that could affect the rear wiper operation.
• Repair or Replace Components:
• Based on your findings, repair any damaged wiring or connectors. If the switch is faulty, replace it. If the BCM is determined to be the issue, it may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive:
• After making repairs, clear the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner. Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult Service Manual:
• Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for specific wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures related to the rear wiper system.
• Seek Professional Help:
• If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, consider seeking assistance from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the B1614 code.