Introduction
The B1460 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) signifies a fault within the wiper washer pump motor relay coil circuit, specifically a short to battery. This means that the electrical circuit energizing the relay coil is receiving unintended voltage directly from the vehicle's battery. This can lead to various issues, including a constantly running washer pump, a non-functioning washer pump, or even damage to the electrical system. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and troubleshooting steps for this code is crucial for proper vehicle maintenance and repair.
Table: B1460 Wiper Washer Pump Motor Relay Coil Circuit Short To Battery
| Topic | Description | Potential Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of B1460 | Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating a short to battery in the wiper washer pump motor relay coil circuit. This means the relay coil is receiving unintended, constant power. | Shorted wiring to the battery positive (+) circuit, faulty relay, damaged wiring harness, corrosion, or a malfunctioning control module. |
| Symptoms | Washer pump running constantly, washer pump not functioning at all, blown fuse, battery drain, burning smell, or other electrical malfunctions. | Shorted wiring, faulty relay, damaged wiring harness, corrosion at connections, or a failing Body Control Module (BCM). |
| Possible Causes | Damaged wiring insulation causing a short to the battery positive wire, internal short within the wiper washer pump motor relay, corrosion in the wiring harness connectors, or a faulty Body Control Module (BCM) providing incorrect signals. | Worn or damaged wiring, physical damage to the relay, exposure to moisture or chemicals, internal BCM failure due to age or electrical surges. |
| Diagnostic Steps | Visual inspection of wiring and connectors, relay testing, circuit testing with a multimeter, fuse inspection, BCM diagnosis. | Carefully examine wires for damage, test the relay for proper function, use a multimeter to check for voltage and continuity, inspect fuses for breaks, and potentially use a scan tool to diagnose the BCM. |
| Troubleshooting Tools | Multimeter, wiring diagram, scan tool (optional), test light, wire stripper, crimper, electrical tape. | A multimeter is essential for testing voltage and continuity, a wiring diagram is crucial for tracing the circuit, and a scan tool can provide more detailed diagnostic information. |
| Common Repair Solutions | Replacing damaged wiring, replacing the wiper washer pump motor relay, cleaning or replacing corroded connectors, or replacing the Body Control Module (BCM). | Repairing or replacing the wiring harness, installing a new relay, cleaning or replacing corroded connectors, or programming a new BCM. |
| Related Codes | Other codes related to the wiper system or Body Control Module, such as codes for the wiper motor, wiper switch, or other relay circuits. | B1461, B1462, B1463 and other codes that indicate a fault in the wiper system. |
| Relay Function | The relay acts as an electrical switch, allowing a low-current circuit (controlled by the wiper switch) to activate a high-current circuit (powering the washer pump motor). | Protecting the wiper switch from high current, enabling remote control of the washer pump motor. |
| BCM Involvement | The Body Control Module (BCM) often controls the wiper washer pump function, sending a signal to the relay to activate the pump. | Monitoring the wiper switch position, activating the washer pump for a specific duration, and managing other vehicle functions. |
| Fuse Protection | A fuse is present in the circuit to protect it from overcurrent conditions, preventing damage to the wiring and components. | Preventing electrical fires and protecting the components from damage. |
| Wiring Diagram Importance | A wiring diagram is essential for tracing the circuit, identifying the location of components, and troubleshooting wiring issues. | Accurately locating wires, connectors, and components within the circuit, and understanding the flow of electricity. |
Detailed Explanations
Definition of B1460: The B1460 code indicates that there is an unwanted electrical connection between the wiper washer pump motor relay coil circuit and the vehicle's battery positive terminal. This means the relay coil is constantly receiving power, even when it shouldn't be, leading to potential problems.
Symptoms: The most common symptom is the washer pump running continuously, even when the wiper switch is off. Other symptoms can include the washer pump not working at all (if the relay is damaged), a blown fuse in the wiper system circuit, excessive battery drain, and a burning smell if the wiring is overheating.
Possible Causes: The most frequent cause is damaged wiring, where the insulation has worn away, allowing the wire to contact a battery positive wire or a metal part connected to the battery. An internal short within the relay itself can also cause this issue. Corrosion at wiring harness connectors can create a conductive path, and a faulty Body Control Module (BCM) might send the wrong signal to the relay, causing it to stay energized.
Diagnostic Steps: Begin with a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors associated with the wiper washer pump and relay. Check for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Then, test the relay itself using a multimeter to ensure it's functioning correctly. Use a multimeter to check for voltage and continuity in the circuit. Inspect all relevant fuses to ensure they are intact. If everything else checks out, the BCM may need to be diagnosed, potentially requiring a specialized scan tool.
Troubleshooting Tools: A multimeter is essential for testing voltage, continuity, and resistance. A wiring diagram specific to the vehicle model is crucial for tracing the circuit. A scan tool can be helpful for reading diagnostic data from the BCM. A test light can quickly check for the presence of voltage. Wire strippers, crimpers, and electrical tape are needed for repairing damaged wiring.
Common Repair Solutions: The most common repair is replacing damaged wiring that's causing the short to battery. If the relay is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Clean or replace corroded connectors to ensure good electrical connections. In rare cases, if the BCM is the cause, it may need to be replaced and programmed.
Related Codes: B1460 often appears alongside other codes related to the wiper system or the Body Control Module. These might include codes for the wiper motor itself, the wiper switch, or other relay circuits within the system. These codes can provide additional clues about the underlying problem.
Relay Function: The wiper washer pump motor relay acts as an electrically controlled switch. It allows a low-current signal from the wiper switch to control a high-current circuit that powers the washer pump motor. This protects the wiper switch from being overloaded by the high current required by the motor.
BCM Involvement: In many modern vehicles, the Body Control Module (BCM) plays a role in controlling the wiper washer pump. The BCM receives input from the wiper switch and then sends a signal to the relay to activate the washer pump for a specific duration.
Fuse Protection: A fuse is included in the wiper washer pump circuit to protect it from overcurrent conditions. If a short circuit occurs, the fuse will blow, preventing damage to the wiring and components. It's essential to replace a blown fuse with one of the correct amperage rating.
Wiring Diagram Importance: A wiring diagram is an indispensable tool for troubleshooting electrical problems. It provides a visual representation of the circuit, showing the location of all components, the wiring connections, and the flow of electricity. This allows you to trace the circuit and identify potential problem areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1460 code mean? It indicates a short to battery in the wiper washer pump motor relay coil circuit, meaning the relay coil is receiving unintended, constant power.
What are the symptoms of a B1460 code? The most common symptom is the washer pump running constantly, even when the wipers are off. Other symptoms include a non-functioning pump, blown fuses, and battery drain.
What could cause the B1460 code? Common causes include damaged wiring with shorts to battery voltage, a faulty relay, corroded connections, or a malfunctioning Body Control Module (BCM).
How do I diagnose a B1460 code? Start with a visual inspection of wiring and connectors, then test the relay with a multimeter. Check for voltage and continuity in the circuit and inspect the fuses.
Can I fix the B1460 code myself? Simple repairs like replacing a blown fuse or cleaning corroded connectors are possible. More complex repairs, like replacing wiring or the BCM, may require professional assistance.
Conclusion
The B1460 code, indicating a short to battery in the wiper washer pump motor relay coil circuit, can lead to various frustrating and potentially damaging problems. Thorough diagnosis, using a wiring diagram and multimeter, is essential for pinpointing the root cause and implementing the appropriate repair, which may involve replacing damaged wiring, the relay, or even the BCM.