AutoCodes – Generic – B3718

B3718 Code - Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High

Quick Answer

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the control circuit of the wiper relay. Common causes include Faulty Front Wiper Relay, Front Wiper Relay harness is open or shorted, Front Wiper Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B3718 indicates Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Front Wiper Relay, Front Wiper Relay harness is open or shorted, Front Wiper Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,147

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 15, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B3718 Description

The Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the control circuit of the wiper relay. The voltage level should be low while the wiper relay is de-energized and near system voltage when the relay is energized. After the BCM receives a low, intermittent, or mist signal from the wiper/washer switch, it responds by applying battery voltage through the wiper relay control circuit to the coil side of the relay, energizing the wiper relay. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets if the BCM detects a short to battery voltage in the wiper relay control circuit.

OBDII Code B3718 - Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — B3718 Code - Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3718?

Faulty Front Wiper Relay
Front Wiper Relay harness is open or shorted
Front Wiper Relay circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)

How to Fix the DTC B3718?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B3718 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B3718 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B3718 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B3718 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B3718 Buick — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High
B3718 Cadillac — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High
B3718 Chevrolet — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High
B3718 GMC — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High
B3718 Pontiac — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High
B3718 Saturn — Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B3718 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B3718 (Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High)?

- Common symptoms include the front wipers not working, wipers operating at an incorrect speed, or the wipers getting stuck in one position.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B3718?

- Possible causes include a faulty wiper relay, damaged wiper motor, wiring issues, or a problem with the wiper switch.

3. How can I diagnose the Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High issue?

- Diagnose by checking the wiper relay, testing the wiper motor, inspecting the wiring for any damage or corrosion, and ensuring the wiper switch is functioning correctly.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B3718?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as the front wipers are essential for visibility in various weather conditions.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B3718 (Front Wiper Relay Drive Circuit High)?

- Repair options include replacing the wiper relay, fixing any wiring issues, repairing or replacing the wiper motor, or addressing any problems with the wiper switch.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code B3718?

- DIY tips include checking and cleaning the wiper relay connections, inspecting the fuse related to the wipers, and testing the wiper motor for proper function.

7. Can weather conditions affect OBDII code B3718?

- Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can exacerbate issues related to this code by putting additional strain on the front wipers.

8. Is it common for OBDII code B3718 to recur after repairs?

- Recurrence of the code can happen if the root cause of the issue is not properly addressed during the initial repair.

9. Should I reset the OBDII code B3718 after making repairs?

- It is recommended to reset the code after making repairs to see if the issue has been successfully resolved and to prevent any potential confusion in the future.

10. Can a professional mechanic help with diagnosing and repairing OBDII code B3718?

- Yes, a professional mechanic with experience in automotive electrical systems can efficiently diagnose and repair issues related to OBDII code B3718.