AutoCodes – Generic – B3873:02

B3873:02 Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground

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: B3873:02 indicates Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground.
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.

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Code Popularity 330

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 Jun 14, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B3873:02 Description

The windshield washer function is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM). When the washer switch is pressed, low reference is applied through the switch contacts and the signal circuit to the body control module indicating the wash request. The body control module then applies voltage through the control circuit to the coil side of the windshield washer pump relay energizing the relay. With the relay energized, battery voltage from the fuse is applied through the switch contacts of the relay and the control circuit to the windshield washer fluid pump. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the BCM detects a short to ground in the windshield washer pump relay control circuit

OBDII Code B3873:02 - Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground - AutoCodes.com — B3873:02 Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3873:02?

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 B3873:02?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B3873:01 Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Battery
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 B3873:02 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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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 B3873:02 Code

1. What are some common symptoms of OBDII code B3873:02 (Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground)?

- Common symptoms may include inoperative front windshield washer sprayer, blown fuse, and illuminated dashboard warning light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B3873:02?

- The code can be triggered by a short to ground in the front washer relay circuit, a faulty front washer relay, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning washer pump motor.

3. How can I diagnose the Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground issue?

- Diagnose the problem by inspecting the washer relay, checking the wiring for any visible damage, testing the washer pump motor, and using a multimeter to measure for a short to ground.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with the B3873:02 code?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it may lead to reduced visibility due to the inoperative washer system.

5. How can I repair the Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground issue?

- Repair options may include replacing the front washer relay, repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the washer pump motor, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Will resetting the trouble code fix the issue permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear.

7. Is it possible to fix the Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground problem myself?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to diagnose and repair this issue yourself, but professional assistance is recommended for complex electrical repairs.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the B3873:02 code at a mechanic or dealership?

- Repair costs can vary greatly depending on the exact cause of the issue, but expect to pay for the replacement of parts, labor, and diagnostic fees.

9. Can extreme weather conditions affect the Front Washer Relay Circuit Short to Ground problem?

- Extreme weather conditions, such as cold temperatures causing freezing of washer fluid or water in the system, can potentially exacerbate issues related to the front washer relay circuit.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid encountering OBDII code B3873:02 in the future?

- Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle's washer system, including checking for leaks, keeping the fluid reservoir topped up, and ensuring the system is functioning properly to prevent issues like a short to ground.