B1617 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC B1617 – Wiper Rear Disable Switch Circuit Short To Battery

DTC B1617 meaning

DTC B1617 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a problem with the rear wiper disable switch circuit. Specifically, it signifies that there is a short circuit to battery voltage in the disable switch circuit. This can prevent the rear wiper from functioning correctly, as the system interprets the switch as being in a constant “on” position.

DTC B1617 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC B1617 may include:

• Rear wiper not functioning at all
• Rear wiper operating continuously without user input
• Intermittent operation of the rear wiper
• Dashboard warning lights illuminated

DTC B1617 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC B1617, including:

• Faulty rear wiper disable switch
• Wiring issues, such as frayed or damaged wires
• Corrosion or poor connections in the circuit
• Short circuit in the wiring harness
• Faulty body control module (BCM)

DTC B1617 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC B1617 can vary based on the vehicle’s use and the severity of the issue. While it may not pose an immediate safety risk, it can lead to:

• Inability to use the rear wiper in adverse weather conditions
• Potential for further electrical issues if left unaddressed
• Increased wear on the wiper motor if it operates continuously

How to diagnose DTC B1617

To diagnose DTC B1617, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the code.
2. Inspect the rear wiper disable switch for physical damage or wear.
3. Check the wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion or damage.
4. Test the continuity of the circuit from the switch to the BCM.
5. Measure the voltage at the disable switch to check for shorts to battery.
6. Examine the BCM for any faults or error codes.

How to fix DTC B1617 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC B1617, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety.
2. Inspect and replace the rear wiper disable switch if faulty.
3. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit.
4. Clean any corroded connections to ensure proper conductivity.
5. Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
6. Test the rear wiper operation to ensure proper functionality.

How to erase DTC B1617

To erase DTC B1617, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to clear the trouble codes.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to verify that the code does not return.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.