B1873 – Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1873 indicates a short circuit to ground in the power feed circuit for the turn signal or hazard lights, which can cause the lights to malfunction.

The severity of ODBII code B1873 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1872 Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Battery

• Damaged wiring or insulation
• Faulty turn signal switch
• Shorted turn signal relay
• Corroded connectors
• Faulty hazard switch
• Grounding issues
• Water intrusion or moisture in electrical components
• Aftermarket modifications or installations

Common misdiagnosis for B1873 Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty turn signal switch
• Defective hazard switch
• Shorted wiring harness
• Bad ground connection
• Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
• Incorrectly installed aftermarket accessories
• Faulty relay
• Damaged connectors or terminals
• Issues with the lighting control module
• Battery or charging system problems

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with OBD-II code B1873, which indicates a “Turn Signal / Hazard Power Feed Circuit Short To Ground,” 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 B1873 code.
• Check for any additional codes that may provide more context or related issues.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harnesses and connectors related to the turn signal and hazard circuits for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• **Ground Connections: Ensure that all ground connections are secure and free of corrosion.
• Check the Turn Signal and Hazard Switch: Test the turn signal and hazard switch for proper operation. A faulty switch can cause a short circuit.
• If possible, disconnect the switch and see if the code persists.
• Examine the Fuses: Check the fuses related to the turn signal and hazard lights. A blown fuse can indicate a short circuit.
• Replace any blown fuses and see if the issue resolves.
• Test for Short Circuits: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring. Look for any shorts to ground in the turn signal and hazard circuits.
• Disconnect components one at a time (like bulbs, relays, etc.) to isolate the short.
• Inspect the Turn Signal and Hazard Light Bulbs: Check the bulbs for any signs of damage or improper installation. A shorted bulb can cause this code.
• Replace any faulty bulbs and retest.
• Check the Relay: If applicable, test the turn signal and hazard light relay. A malfunctioning relay can cause issues in the circuit.
• Swap with a known good relay if possible to see if the problem resolves.
• Scan for Additional Codes: After performing repairs, clear the codes and perform a test drive to see if the B1873 code returns.
• Monitor the system for any new codes that may appear.
• Consult Wiring Diagrams: Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to understand the circuit layout and identify any potential problem areas.
• Professional Help: If the issue persists after following these steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with electrical systems.Conclusion By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the B1873 code. Always ensure safety precautions are taken when working with electrical systems in vehicles.