Introduction
The B1473 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates a malfunction within the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor. This issue can manifest as intermittent or complete failure of the low-speed wiper function, impacting visibility during light rain or mist conditions. Addressing this problem promptly is crucial for driver safety and maintaining optimal vehicle operation, especially in inclement weather.
Table: B1473 Wiper Low Speed Circuit Motor Failure - Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
| Topic | Description | Potential Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of B1473 | Indicates a fault in the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor, detected by the vehicle's ECU. | No direct solution; this is just the code itself. Requires further diagnosis. |
| Common Causes | Damaged or corroded wiring, faulty wiper motor, defective wiper switch, blown fuse, or a problem with the Body Control Module (BCM). | Inspect wiring for damage/corrosion, test the wiper motor, check the wiper switch, replace the fuse, or consult a professional for BCM diagnosis. |
| Symptoms | Wiper low speed not working, wipers only working on high speed, wipers not working at all, intermittent wiper operation, or burning smell from the wiper motor area. | Address the underlying cause based on diagnosis. See solutions for specific causes. |
| Wiring Problems | Broken, frayed, or corroded wires in the low-speed circuit. Can cause intermittent connection or complete circuit failure. | Visually inspect wiring, use a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage, repair or replace damaged wiring harnesses. |
| Wiper Motor Failure | The wiper motor itself is defective, specifically the low-speed winding or associated components. | Test the wiper motor using a multimeter or diagnostic tool, replace the wiper motor if it fails testing. |
| Wiper Switch Issues | The wiper switch is faulty, preventing proper activation of the low-speed circuit. | Test the wiper switch using a multimeter to check for continuity in the low-speed position, replace the switch if it's defective. |
| Fuse Problems | A blown fuse protecting the wiper motor circuit. Often indicates a short circuit or overload. | Check the fuse box for blown fuses, replace the fuse with the correct amperage rating, and investigate the cause of the blown fuse. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) | The BCM controls various vehicle functions, including the wipers. A BCM malfunction can cause B1473. | Requires professional diagnosis using specialized diagnostic tools. BCM reprogramming or replacement may be necessary. |
| Diagnostic Tools | Multimeter, scan tool, wiring diagrams. These tools are essential for diagnosing the root cause of the B1473 code. | Learn how to use these tools effectively. Consult repair manuals or online resources for guidance. |
| Testing the Motor | Disconnect the motor and apply direct power and ground to test its operation. | If the motor doesn't run on low speed when directly powered, it's likely faulty and needs replacement. |
| Testing the Switch | Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the switch terminals in the low-speed position. | If there is no continuity when the switch is in the low-speed position, the switch is likely faulty and needs replacement. |
| Checking for Voltage | Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the wiper motor connector when the low-speed wiper function is activated. | If there is no voltage at the connector, the problem lies upstream, such as in the wiring, switch, or BCM. |
| Corrosion | Corrosion on electrical connectors and terminals can impede electrical flow and cause circuit failure. | Clean corroded connectors with electrical contact cleaner and a wire brush. Apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion. |
| Location of Components | Knowing the location of the wiper motor, wiper switch, fuse box, and BCM is crucial for efficient troubleshooting. | Consult your vehicle's repair manual or online resources for diagrams showing the location of these components. |
| Safety Precautions | Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components to prevent electrical shock or damage to the vehicle. | Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work. |
| Intermittent Issues | B1473 may appear intermittently, making diagnosis challenging. | Carefully inspect wiring and connections for loose or corroded terminals that may cause intermittent contact. Use a freeze spray to cool components and see if it triggers the fault. |
| Grounding Issues | Poor grounding can cause erratic electrical behavior and contribute to the B1473 code. | Inspect and clean all ground connections related to the wiper system. |
| Repair Manuals | Vehicle-specific repair manuals provide valuable information on wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting procedures. | Invest in a repair manual specific to your vehicle make and model. |
| Online Forums | Online forums and communities can offer valuable insights and troubleshooting tips from other vehicle owners. | Search online forums for discussions about the B1473 code and your specific vehicle model. |
| Professional Diagnosis | If you're unable to diagnose and repair the problem yourself, seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic. | A professional mechanic has the expertise and tools to accurately diagnose and repair the B1473 code. |
| Component Compatibility | Ensure that any replacement parts, such as the wiper motor or switch, are compatible with your vehicle's make and model. | Check the part numbers and specifications to ensure compatibility before purchasing replacement parts. |
| Aftermarket Accessories | Aftermarket accessories, such as remote start systems, can sometimes interfere with the wiper system. | Disconnect any aftermarket accessories to see if they are causing the B1473 code. |
| Impact of Weather | Extreme temperatures and humidity can exacerbate electrical problems and contribute to the B1473 code. | Protect your vehicle from extreme weather conditions to minimize the risk of electrical problems. |
| Related DTCs | Other DTCs related to the wiper system may be present alongside B1473, providing additional diagnostic clues. | Scan the vehicle for other DTCs and address them accordingly. |
| Software Updates | In some cases, a software update to the BCM may resolve the B1473 code. | Check with your dealer to see if there are any available software updates for your vehicle. |
| Warranty Coverage | The wiper system may be covered under the vehicle's warranty, depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle. | Check your vehicle's warranty information to see if the wiper system is covered. |
| Long-Term Effects | Ignoring the B1473 code can lead to further damage to the wiper system and reduced visibility in inclement weather. | Address the B1473 code promptly to prevent further damage and maintain safe driving conditions. |
| Testing Relays | Some vehicles utilize relays to control the wiper motor speeds. A faulty relay can cause the B1473 code. | Locate and test the wiper motor relays. Replace any faulty relays. |
Detailed Explanations
Definition of B1473: This is the diagnostic code assigned to a specific electrical fault detected by the vehicle's computer (ECU). It specifically points to a problem within the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor. The code itself doesn't fix the problem, it's just a starting point for diagnosis.
Common Causes: A variety of issues can trigger the B1473 code. These include damaged wiring, a malfunctioning wiper motor, a faulty wiper switch, a blown fuse, or a problem within the Body Control Module (BCM), which is responsible for controlling many of the vehicle's electrical functions. Identifying the precise cause requires a systematic approach to diagnosis.
Symptoms: The most noticeable symptom is the failure of the low-speed wiper function. Other indicators include the wipers only working on high speed, the wipers not working at all, intermittent wiper operation (working sometimes, not others), or even a burning smell emanating from the wiper motor area, which could indicate a short circuit or motor overheating.
Wiring Problems: The wiring harness that connects the wiper motor to the switch and power source is vulnerable to damage. This includes broken, frayed, or corroded wires, especially in areas exposed to the elements. Damaged wiring can interrupt the electrical signal needed for low-speed operation.
Wiper Motor Failure: The wiper motor itself can fail, particularly the low-speed winding or related internal components. Over time, wear and tear, or exposure to moisture, can lead to motor malfunction.
Wiper Switch Issues: The wiper switch, located on the steering column, controls the various wiper speeds. A faulty switch can prevent the low-speed circuit from functioning correctly, even if the motor and wiring are in good condition.
Fuse Problems: The wiper motor circuit is protected by a fuse. A blown fuse is often an indication of a short circuit or an overload in the system. Replacing the fuse without addressing the underlying cause will likely result in the fuse blowing again.
Body Control Module (BCM): The BCM is a central computer that controls many of the vehicle's electrical functions, including the wipers. A malfunction within the BCM can disrupt the wiper control signals and trigger the B1473 code. BCM issues often require specialized diagnostic tools and expertise.
Diagnostic Tools: Essential tools for diagnosing the B1473 code include a multimeter (for testing voltage and continuity), a scan tool (for reading diagnostic codes), and wiring diagrams (for tracing the wiper circuit).
Testing the Motor: A direct test of the wiper motor involves disconnecting it from the vehicle's wiring harness and applying direct power and ground. If the motor fails to operate on low speed when directly powered, it's a strong indication of motor failure.
Testing the Switch: The wiper switch can be tested using a multimeter to check for continuity between the terminals in the low-speed position. A lack of continuity suggests a faulty switch.
Checking for Voltage: Use a multimeter to verify that voltage is present at the wiper motor connector when the low-speed wiper function is activated. The absence of voltage indicates a problem upstream, such as in the wiring, switch, or BCM.
Corrosion: Corrosion on electrical connectors and terminals can significantly impede electrical flow. This is especially common in areas exposed to moisture and road salt.
Location of Components: Knowing the location of the wiper motor, wiper switch, fuse box, and BCM is essential for efficient troubleshooting. Consult your vehicle's repair manual or online resources for diagrams.
Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components to prevent electrical shock or damage to the vehicle's electrical system.
Intermittent Issues: The B1473 code may appear intermittently, making diagnosis more challenging. This often points to loose connections, corroded terminals, or temperature-sensitive components.
Grounding Issues: A poor ground connection can cause erratic electrical behavior and contribute to the B1473 code. Inspect and clean all ground connections related to the wiper system.
Repair Manuals: Vehicle-specific repair manuals provide valuable information on wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting procedures.
Online Forums: Online forums and communities can offer valuable insights and troubleshooting tips from other vehicle owners who have experienced the same problem.
Professional Diagnosis: If you are unable to diagnose and repair the problem yourself, seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic.
Component Compatibility: Ensure that any replacement parts, such as the wiper motor or switch, are compatible with your vehicle's make and model.
Aftermarket Accessories: Aftermarket accessories, such as remote start systems, can sometimes interfere with the wiper system.
Impact of Weather: Extreme temperatures and humidity can exacerbate electrical problems and contribute to the B1473 code.
Related DTCs: Other DTCs related to the wiper system may be present alongside B1473, providing additional diagnostic clues.
Software Updates: In some cases, a software update to the BCM may resolve the B1473 code.
Warranty Coverage: The wiper system may be covered under the vehicle's warranty, depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle.
Long-Term Effects: Ignoring the B1473 code can lead to further damage to the wiper system and reduced visibility in inclement weather.
Testing Relays: Some vehicles utilize relays to control the wiper motor speeds. A faulty relay can cause the B1473 code. Testing these relays using a multimeter or swapping them with a known good relay is a good diagnostic step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the B1473 code mean? It indicates a problem with the low-speed circuit of your windshield wiper motor.
What are the most common symptoms of a B1473 code? The most common symptom is the low-speed setting on your windshield wipers not working.
Can I fix the B1473 code myself? Potentially, if you have experience with auto repair and the necessary tools, but professional diagnosis is often recommended.
Is it safe to drive with a B1473 code? It's generally safe if your wipers work on other speeds, but visibility could be compromised in light rain or mist.
How much does it cost to fix a B1473 code? The cost varies depending on the cause; it could range from a few dollars for a fuse to several hundred for a new motor or BCM repair.
Conclusion
The B1473 code signifies a fault in the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper motor, requiring a methodical diagnostic approach. By systematically checking wiring, switches, fuses, and the motor itself, or seeking professional assistance, you can resolve the issue and ensure safe driving in all weather conditions.