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DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0114

B0114Camera Washer Actuator L

B0114 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected an open circuit, short to ground, or excessive current draw on the control circuit for the left-side camera washer actuator, which is the small pump or solenoid that sprays cleaning fluid onto the rearview or surround-view camera lens. The BCM sets this code when the commanded actuator state does not match the feedback signal, typically because the actuator coil or its wiring has failed.

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 the camera image obscured.
  • A warning light or message on the dashboard indicating a camera system fault or washer system malfunction.
  • The washer pump may run continuously or not at all, depending on whether the circuit is shorted or open.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the driver rarely uses the camera washer function.
  • Other camera-related features such as lane departure warnings or surround-view displays may be disabled as a safety precaution.
  • A faint click or no sound from the actuator area when the washer button is pressed.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed camera washer actuator (pump motor or solenoid) due to internal corrosion or winding failure.
  2. Damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the actuator connector, often from road debris or vibration.
  3. Blown fuse or corroded fuse contact in the circuit feeding the camera washer actuator.
  4. Faulty body control module (BCM) driver circuit, though this is less common than actuator or wiring failure.
  5. Water intrusion into the connector or actuator causing a short to ground.
  6. Poor ground connection for the actuator circuit, leading to high resistance and intermittent operation.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related body codes that might indicate a shared circuit fault.
  2. Inspect the camera washer actuator connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose pins, and clean or repair as needed.
  3. Check the fuse that supplies power to the camera washer circuit and replace it if blown, then retest.
  4. Measure resistance across the actuator terminals to compare with the manufacturer's specification; an open or shorted reading confirms a failed actuator.
  5. Apply battery voltage directly to the actuator to see if it operates; if it does not, replace the actuator.
  6. If the actuator tests good, backprobe the control circuit at the BCM to check for a command signal and repair any open or short in the wiring.
  7. Clear the code and perform a functional test of the camera washer system to confirm the repair.

What the camera washer code really tells you

  • A B0114 code can be set by a simple blown fuse that also powers other washer functions, so always check fuses before condemning the actuator.
  • The camera washer actuator is often integrated into the washer fluid reservoir or a separate pump, and a leak in the fluid line can mimic an electrical fault by causing the motor to run dry and overheat.
  • Some vehicles use the same actuator for both the rear window washer and the camera washer, so a fault in the rear washer circuit can trigger B0114 on those models.
  • Intermittent B0114 codes often trace to a chafed wire in the tailgate or liftgate harness where it flexes with opening and closing, not to the actuator itself.
  • Replacing the actuator without checking the ground point can lead to a repeat failure if the ground is corroded and causes high current draw.

Can I keep driving with B0114?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the camera washer is a convenience feature and does not affect steering, braking, or engine operation. However, if the camera lens becomes dirty and the washer cannot clean it, you should manually clean the lens before relying on camera-based driver aids, and avoid using the washer system until the fault is repaired to prevent further electrical damage.

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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