WOMS
B code body Medium severity

B1473 Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure

The OBD2 code B1473 indicates a failure in the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor, suggesting that the motor is not functioning properly at low speed

Definition

The OBD2 code B1473 indicates a failure in the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor, suggesting that the motor is not functioning properly at low speed

Common causes

  • Faulty wiper motor
  • Damaged wiring or connectors
  • Blown fuse
  • Faulty wiper switch
  • Corroded terminals
  • Short circuit in the circuit
  • Poor ground connection

Common misdiagnoses

  • Wiper Motor Failure
  • Wiper Relay Failure
  • Faulty Wiper Switch
  • Wiring Issues or Shorts
  • Blown Fuse
  • Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Grounding Problems
  • Incorrectly Installed Wiper Blades
  • Rain Sensor Malfunction
  • Electrical Connector Issues

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check the Basics

    Battery Voltage: Ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged and in good condition

  2. 2. Fuses

    Inspect the fuse related to the windshield wiper system. A blown fuse can cause the wipers to malfunction

  3. 3. Visual Inspection

    Wiper Motor: Check the wiper motor for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections

  4. 4. Wiring and Connectors

    Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for fraying, corrosion, or disconnection. Pay special attention to the connectors at the wiper motor

  5. 5. Test the Wiper Motor

    Direct Power Test: Apply direct battery voltage to the wiper motor to see if it operates. If it does not work, the motor may be faulty and needs replacement

  6. 6. Low Speed Functionality

    If the motor works with direct power, check if it operates in low-speed mode when controlled by the vehicle's switch

  7. 7. Check the Wiper Switch

    Functionality Test: Test the wiper switch for proper operation. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the switch positions

  8. 8. Signal Output

    Ensure that the switch sends the correct signals to the wiper motor for low-speed operation

  9. 9. Inspect the Control Module

    Body Control Module (BCM): If applicable, check the BCM for any faults or issues. The BCM may control the wiper motor operation

  10. 10. Software Updates

    Ensure that the vehicle's software is up to date, as some issues may be resolved with a software update

  11. 11. Scan for Additional Codes

    Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues

  12. 12. Check Ground Connections

    Ensure that the ground connections for the wiper motor and related components are clean and secure. Poor grounding can lead to erratic behavior

  13. 13. Consult Wiring Diagrams

    Refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagrams to trace the circuit and identify any potential issues in the wiring or connections

  14. 14. Professional Diagnosis

    If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or technician who can perform more advanced diagnostics.Conclusion By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the B1473 code and take appropriate action to resolve the issue. Always remember to take safety precautions when working on electrical components in your vehicle