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DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0117

B0117Camera Washer Actuator O

B0117 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 rear camera washer actuator, often referred to as actuator 'O'. The BCM commands the actuator to spray cleaning fluid onto the rear camera lens, and when the circuit's electrical signature falls outside the expected range, it stores this code and may disable the washer function.

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

Symptoms you may notice

  • The rear 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 fault is an open or short circuit.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the driver rarely uses the rear camera washer.
  • The rear camera view may remain blurry or obstructed after attempts to clean it, reducing visibility when reversing.
  • In some vehicles, other camera-related functions or driver assistance features may be disabled as a precaution.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. A failed camera washer actuator motor, often due to corrosion or fluid ingress from road splash.
  2. A damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the actuator connector, commonly caused by flexing or debris impact.
  3. A blown fuse that supplies power to the washer actuator circuit, though this may also set other codes.
  4. Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the actuator or BCM, leading to high resistance or intermittent contact.
  5. A short to ground or open circuit in the control wire between the BCM and the actuator, often from chafing or rodent damage.
  6. A faulty BCM driver circuit, although this is less common and should be confirmed after ruling out wiring and actuator faults.
  7. Blocked washer nozzle or frozen fluid causing the actuator to draw excessive current and set the code.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related codes in the BCM and camera systems to confirm the fault is isolated to the washer actuator circuit.
  2. Inspect the washer actuator connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or looseness, and clean or repair as needed.
  3. Check the fuse that supplies power to the washer actuator circuit and replace it if blown, then retest.
  4. Measure resistance across the actuator motor and compare to specification; an open or shorted winding indicates a failed actuator.
  5. Command the actuator on with a scan tool and listen for operation; if it does not run, check for power and ground at the connector while commanding.
  6. If power and ground are present but the actuator does not operate, replace the camera washer actuator and clear the code.
  7. If the actuator operates but the code persists, inspect the control wire for a short to ground or open circuit and repair the harness.

Before replacing the camera washer actuator

  • A blocked or frozen washer nozzle can cause the actuator to draw excessive current and set B0117, so always verify fluid flow before condemning the motor.
  • The code can be set by a momentary open circuit from a loose connector, so a wiggle test of the harness while monitoring live data often reveals the true cause.
  • On some vehicles, the rear camera washer shares a fuse or ground with other body components, so a blown fuse may set multiple codes and mislead diagnosis.
  • Aftermarket or incorrect washer fluid can leave deposits that seize the actuator, leading to repeated failures if the system is not flushed.
  • The BCM may disable the washer function entirely when this code is active, so the driver may not hear the pump run even if the motor is good.

Can I keep driving with B0117?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the camera washer is a convenience feature and does not affect braking, steering, or engine operation. However, you should clean the rear camera lens manually before reversing to maintain visibility, and address the fault when convenient to avoid further electrical issues.

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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