AutoCodes – Chevrolet – B3873 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

B3873 2018 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 2018 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 289

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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Front Washer Relay Circuit - AutoCodes.com — B3873 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Front Washer Relay Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B3873 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the B3873 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The common symptoms of OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado include inoperative front windshield washer sprayers and a lack of washer fluid being dispensed onto the windshield.

2. What does OBDII code B3873 indicate in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a problem with the front washer relay circuit, specifically related to the windshield washer system.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes of OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado include a faulty front washer relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the relay circuit, or issues with the washer fluid pump.

4. How can I diagnose the front washer relay circuit issue causing OBDII code B3873 in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

To diagnose the front washer relay circuit issue causing OBDII code B3873, you can start by checking the front washer relay, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage, and testing the washer fluid pump for proper functionality.

5. Can I continue driving my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code B3873?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code B3873, as the malfunction in the front washer relay circuit can impact visibility and safety while driving.

6. How can I repair OBDII code B3873 in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

To repair OBDII code B3873 in your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, you may need to replace the front washer relay, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, or troubleshoot and fix issues with the washer fluid pump.

7. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

While some basic troubleshooting steps can be done by DIY enthusiasts, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for repairing OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado to ensure proper diagnosis and resolution.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost of fixing OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve expenses for parts replacement, labor costs, and diagnostic fees.

9. Is OBDII code B3873 a common issue in 2018 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles?

While OBDII code B3873 related to the front washer relay circuit is not as common as some other OBDII codes, it can still occur in 2018 Chevrolet Silverado vehicles due to various factors such as wear and tear or electrical faults.

10. Can OBDII code B3873 in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado trigger the check engine light?

OBDII code B3873 related to the front washer relay circuit is not typically associated with triggering the check engine light in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it may illuminate other warning lights on the dashboard related to the washer system.