WOMS
B code body Medium severity

B2185 Rear Wiper Select Switch "D" Short to Ground

The OBD2 code B2185 indicates a malfunction in the rear wiper select switch, specifically that the "D" circuit is shorted to ground, which means there is an unintended connection causing the circuit to complete...

Definition

The OBD2 code B2185 indicates a malfunction in the rear wiper select switch, specifically that the "D" circuit is shorted to ground, which means there is an unintended connection causing the circuit to complete improperly

Common causes

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

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty rear wiper motor
  • Damaged wiring or connectors
  • Malfunctioning body control module (BCM)
  • Incorrectly installed or defective rear wiper switch
  • Short circuit in the wiring harness
  • Issues with the main fuse or relay for the wiper system

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Understand the Code

    B2185 typically indicates a problem with the rear wiper switch circuit, specifically that the switch is shorted to ground. This could be due to a faulty switch, wiring issues, or a problem in the control module

  2. 2. Visual Inspection

    Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors related to the rear wiper switch for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections

  3. 3. Look for Shorts

    Check for any exposed wires that may be touching the vehicle's chassis or other components, which could cause a short to ground

  4. 4. Test the Rear Wiper Switch

    Remove the Switch: If accessible, remove the rear wiper switch from the vehicle

  5. 5. Check for Continuity

    Use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. When the switch is in the "off" position, there should be no continuity to ground. When activated, it should show continuity as per the switch's design

  6. 6. Replace if Faulty

    If the switch is found to be faulty, replace it

  7. 7. Inspect the Control Module

    Check for Faulty Module: If the switch is functioning correctly, the issue may lie within the control module. Inspect the module for any signs of damage or corrosion

  8. 8. Reprogram or Replace

    If necessary, reprogram the module or replace it if it is determined to be faulty

  9. 9. Check for Ground Issues

    Test Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connections for the rear wiper circuit are secure and free of corrosion. A poor ground can cause erratic behavior and trigger fault codes

  10. 10. Use a Multimeter

    Measure the resistance between the ground point and the battery negative terminal to ensure a good ground connection

  11. 11. Inspect Related Components

    Check Fuses: Inspect the fuses related to the rear wiper system. A blown fuse can sometimes cause issues in the circuit

  12. 12. Look for Other Faults

    Sometimes, other components in the rear wiper system (like the motor) can cause issues. Test the rear wiper motor for proper operation

  13. 13. Clear the Code and Test Drive

    After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the OBD-II code using a scan tool

  14. 14. Take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code reappears. Monitor the rear wiper operation during this time

  15. 15. Consult Repair Manual

    If the issue persists, consult the vehicle’s repair manual for specific wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures related to the rear wiper system

  16. 16. Seek Professional Help

    If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic or technician who has experience with your specific vehicle make and model. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B2185 code