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DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B010A

B010ACamera Washer Actuator A

B010A indicates that the body control module (BCM) or camera control module has detected a fault in the circuit or operation of the camera washer actuator, which is the small pump or motor that sprays cleaning fluid onto the forward-facing camera lens. The computer monitors the actuator's electrical current and feedback signal, and it sets this code when the expected response is missing or out of range.

SystemBody
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

  • The camera washer does not spray fluid when activated, leaving the lens dirty and degrading camera-based driver-assist features.
  • A warning light or message appears on the dashboard indicating a camera or washer system fault.
  • The washer pump may run continuously or not at all, and the driver may hear no pump noise when pressing the washer button.
  • Camera-based systems such as lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control may become temporarily unavailable.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the washer is rarely used or the fault is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed camera washer actuator motor or pump due to wear, corrosion, or fluid ingress.
  2. Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the washer actuator circuit.
  3. Damaged, disconnected, or corroded wiring and connectors between the control module and the actuator.
  4. Clogged washer nozzle or frozen fluid causing the actuator to overwork and set a fault.
  5. Low washer fluid level or a failed fluid level sensor that prevents actuator operation.
  6. Internal fault in the body control module or camera control module that drives the actuator.
  7. Mechanical binding or obstruction in the washer linkage or spray mechanism.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Check the washer fluid level and inspect the camera washer nozzle for clogs or debris, clearing any obstruction.
  2. Verify the fuse and relay for the camera washer circuit, replacing any blown fuse or faulty relay.
  3. Disconnect the actuator connector and inspect for corrosion, tightness, and damaged pins; clean or repair as needed.
  4. Measure voltage and ground at the actuator connector while commanding the washer on with a scan tool to confirm power and control signals.
  5. Test the actuator directly with a known-good power source or scan tool activation to see if it operates, replacing it if it does not.
  6. If the actuator tests good, check continuity and resistance of the wiring between the actuator and the control module to rule out opens or shorts.
  7. Clear the code and verify the repair by activating the washer and confirming the code does not return after a test drive.

Camera washer faults that fool technicians

  • A clogged nozzle or frozen washer fluid can cause the actuator to stall and draw excessive current, setting B010A even though the motor is healthy.
  • Corrosion inside the actuator connector is a frequent hidden cause, especially on vehicles driven in winter salt conditions, and it may not be obvious without disconnecting the plug.
  • The code can be set by a momentary low-voltage condition during engine cranking, so always check battery health and ground connections before replacing parts.
  • Some vehicles use the same washer pump for both the windshield and camera, and a fault in the shared pump circuit can trigger B010A along with other washer-related codes.
  • After replacing the actuator, some modules require a recalibration or initialization procedure with a scan tool to clear the code permanently.

Can I keep driving with B010A?

You can continue driving safely because the camera washer does not affect primary vehicle operation, but be aware that camera-based safety features may be degraded when the lens is dirty. Avoid relying on those systems until the fault is repaired, and clean the camera lens manually if visibility becomes poor.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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