01 Engine Thirst: Identifying the Sounds of a Car in Need of O… • 02 P0049 Turbocharger or Supercharger Turbine Overspeed • 03 10 Common DTC Codes: Causes, Troubleshooting, and Repair • 04 Understanding Canbus in Automotive: Enhancing Connectivity … • 05 This Is Why Your Car’s Exhaust Smells Like Sulfur • 06 A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Automotive Bulbs • 07 What Happens When Piston Rings Fail? • 08 How to Fix a Car Engine That Stops Abruptly and Won't Start • 09 This One Habit Most Drivers Repeat Is Quietly Destroying Th… • 10 This Rolls-Royce Has An Umbrella That Dries Itself Inside T… •

DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0118

B0118Camera Washer Actuator P

B0118 indicates that the body control module (BCM) or camera control module has detected a fault in the camera washer actuator circuit designated as 'P', which typically refers to a specific actuator in a multi-camera or multi-nozzle washer system. The computer monitors the electrical current or voltage on the actuator's control circuit and sets this code when the signal falls outside the expected range, indicating an open, short, or excessive current draw.

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

Symptoms you may notice

  • The camera washer may not spray fluid when activated, leaving the lens dirty and reducing visibility.
  • The washer may run continuously or at unexpected times, draining the fluid reservoir.
  • A warning light or message may appear on the dashboard indicating a washer system fault.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, as the camera washer is a convenience feature that may not affect drivability.
  • Other camera-based systems (like lane departure or parking assist) may be impaired if the lens remains dirty.
  • The washer pump may be heard running but no fluid reaches the camera, suggesting a blocked nozzle or line.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed camera washer actuator (solenoid or motor) due to corrosion or mechanical wear.
  2. Open or short circuit in the wiring harness between the BCM and the actuator, often from chafing or rodent damage.
  3. Corroded or loose electrical connector at the actuator or BCM.
  4. Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the washer circuit.
  5. Blocked washer nozzle or frozen fluid causing the actuator to overwork and trigger a fault.
  6. Faulty BCM or camera control module, though this is less common and should be diagnosed last.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related codes in the BCM or camera system.
  2. Inspect the washer fluid level and ensure the correct fluid is used; top up if low and check for freezing in cold weather.
  3. Visually inspect the actuator, wiring, and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose pins; repair or replace as needed.
  4. Test the actuator with a multimeter or by applying power directly to confirm it operates; replace if defective.
  5. Check the fuse and relay for the washer circuit and replace if blown or faulty.
  6. Clear the code and operate the washer to see if it returns; if it does, perform a voltage drop test on the circuit to locate high resistance.
  7. If all external components test good, consult factory wiring diagrams to test the BCM output and replace the BCM only if confirmed faulty.

Camera washer faults often misdiagnosed

  • A blocked or frozen washer nozzle can cause the actuator to draw excessive current and set B0118, so always check for fluid flow before replacing parts.
  • The 'P' designation in B0118 refers to a specific actuator in a multi-actuator system, and on some vehicles it may correspond to the rear camera washer rather than the front, so consult the service manual for exact location.
  • Wiring harness damage from rodents or chafing is a common cause that is often overlooked when the actuator itself tests good.
  • This code can be set by a low battery or charging system issue that causes voltage spikes, so check battery health and grounds before condemning the actuator.
  • After repairs, the code may require a specific drive cycle or relearn procedure to clear, and simply disconnecting the battery may not reset the BCM.

Can I keep driving with B0118?

It is generally safe to continue driving with B0118 because the camera washer is a convenience feature and does not affect vehicle safety or performance. However, avoid using the washer system until repaired to prevent further electrical damage, and be aware that dirty camera lenses may degrade advanced driver assistance features.

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.

Running on fumes Free guides aren't free to make. Top up the tank. Any amount, one time. Fuel the Garage