AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit

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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Front Washer Relay Circuit.
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 189

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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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.

OBDII Code B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Front Washer Relay Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B3873 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code B3873 mean on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Code B3873 indicates an issue with the Front Washer Relay Circuit, which controls the operation of the windshield washer system.

2. What are the common symptoms of code B3873 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms include the windshield washer system not working, no washer fluid spraying, or intermittent washer operation.

3. What causes code B3873 to appear in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty front washer relay, damaged wiring or connections in the washer circuit, or a malfunctioning body control module (BCM).

4. Can a blown fuse cause code B3873 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, a blown fuse in the windshield washer circuit can disrupt the relay function and trigger this code.

5. How do you diagnose code B3873 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the washer relay, checking for damaged wiring or loose connections, testing circuit voltage, and scanning the BCM for additional codes.

6. How do you fix code B3873 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the front washer relay, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reprogramming/replacing the BCM if necessary.

7. Can I still drive my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with code B3873?

Yes, but the windshield washer system may not function, which could impair visibility in adverse weather conditions and compromise safety.

8. How much does it cost to repair code B3873 on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost varies depending on the issue, ranging from $20â€“$50 for a relay replacement to a few hundred dollars if BCM repair or replacement is needed.

9. Can I fix code B3873 on my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado myself?

If you're comfortable with basic electrical troubleshooting, you can check and replace the washer relay or inspect the wiring. For BCM issues, professional assistance is recommended.

10. Does code B3873 require a software update for the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

In some cases, a BCM software update from the dealership may resolve the issue if no physical component faults are found.