WOMS
B code body Medium severity

B1477 Wiper Hi/Low Circuit Motor Short To Ground

The OBD2 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

Definition

The OBD2 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

Common causes

  • 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 misdiagnoses

  • 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

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. 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

  2. 2. 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

  3. 3. 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

  4. 4. Inspect Ground Connections

    Ensure that the ground connection for the wiper motor is secure and free of corrosion

  5. 5. 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

  6. 6. Test the Wiper Switch

    Functionality Check: Test the wiper switch for proper operation. A malfunctioning switch can send incorrect signals to the wiper motor

  7. 7. Continuity Test

    Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the switch when it is activated

  8. 8. 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

  9. 9. 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

  10. 10. 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

  11. 11. Live Data Monitoring

    Monitor live data related to the wiper system to see if the switch inputs and motor outputs are functioning as expected

  12. 12. Repair or Replace Components

    Repair Wiring: If any damaged wiring or connectors are found, repair or replace them as necessary

  13. 13. Replace Faulty Components

    If the wiper motor or switch is determined to be faulty, replace them

  14. 14. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    Clear the Codes: After repairs, clear the trouble codes using a scanner

  15. 15. Test Drive

    Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved and that the code does not return

  16. 16. 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