B3873:01 Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Battery
Quick Answer
The windshield washer function is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM). Common causes include Faulty Front Washer Relay, Front Washer Relay harness is open or shorted, Front Washer 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
- B3873:01 indicates Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Battery.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Front Washer Relay, Front Washer Relay harness is open or shorted, Front Washer 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.
Code B3873:01 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3873:01?
- Faulty Front Washer Relay
- Front Washer Relay harness is open or shorted
- Front Washer Relay circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
How to Fix the DTC B3873:01?
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.
Code Tech Notes
B3873:02 Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground
B3873:04 Front Washer Relay Circuit Open
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B3873:01 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about B3873:01 Code
1. What does OBDII code B3873:01 mean?
It indicates a short to battery in the front washer relay circuit, which can cause issues with windshield washer operation.
2. What are the common symptoms of code B3873:01?
Symptoms may include the windshield washer not functioning, the washer pump running continuously, or blown fuses related to the washer system.
3. What causes the B3873:01 code to appear?
The most common causes are damaged wiring, a faulty front washer relay, a short circuit to battery power, or a malfunctioning washer pump.
4. Can I still drive with the B3873:01 code active?
Yes, but without a functional windshield washer system, visibility could be impaired in certain conditions, which may compromise safety.
5. How do I diagnose the B3873:01 code?
Check for damaged wiring or connectors near the washer relay and pump, test the relay for proper functionality, and inspect for any short circuits to battery voltage.
6. How can I fix the B3873:01 code?
Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, repairing a short circuit, replacing the front washer relay, or replacing the washer pump if it's faulty.
7. What tools are needed to address the B3873:01 code?
You may need a digital multimeter, wiring diagrams, a scan tool to clear the code, and replacement parts like relays or wiring if necessary.
8. Will replacing the washer relay fix code B3873:01?
It might, but only if the relay itself is determined to be faulty. Proper diagnosis should be performed to confirm the root cause.
9. Can a blown fuse cause the B3873:01 code?
Yes, a blown fuse can result from a short circuit in the washer system, which could trigger this code.
10. How much does it cost to fix the B3873:01 code?
Costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing a relay or repairing wiring typically costs between $50 and $200, excluding labor.
Discuss the causes and fixes for B3873:01 OBDII Code
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