01 How do I know if my gearbox needs oil? • 02 Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): A Crucial Component for Eng… • 03 Why Does My Car Go Faster Than the Speed Limit? • 04 Exploring the Toyota 1NZ Engine: Features and Performance A… • 05 Understanding Car Fuel Pumps: Functions, Types, and Mainten… • 06 The Complete Guide to the Major Parts of an Excavator • 07 Ignoring These Fuel Usage Signs Can Lead to Expensive Engin… • 08 What Happens If You Ignore Wheel Bearing Noise? • 09 The Challenges of CVT Gearboxes: Troubleshooting and Repair • 10 Why Did Your Car Suddenly Turn Off While Driving? The Top R… •

DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0119

B0119Camera Washer Actuator Q

B0119 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected a fault in the circuit for the camera washer actuator on the 'Q' side, which typically corresponds to the rear camera washer. The BCM monitors the actuator's electrical circuit and sets this code when the voltage or current falls outside the expected range during activation or testing.

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 rear camera lens dirty.
  • The washer pump may run continuously or not at all when the camera washer button is pressed.
  • 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.
  • Other washer functions (windshield, headlight) may still work normally, but the camera washer specifically fails.
  • In some cases, the BCM may disable the camera washer function entirely to protect the circuit.

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 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 relay supplying power to the camera washer circuit.
  5. Faulty BCM internal driver for the actuator circuit.
  6. Blocked washer nozzle or hose causing the actuator to overwork and trigger a fault.
  7. Water intrusion into the actuator or connector causing electrical shorts.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Check the fuse and relay for the camera washer circuit and replace if blown.
  2. Inspect the actuator connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or loose pins; clean and secure as needed.
  3. Test the actuator with a multimeter or scan tool bidirectional control to confirm operation.
  4. Check for continuity and voltage drop in the wiring between the BCM and actuator to rule out open or short circuits.
  5. Verify the washer nozzle and hose are not blocked; clear any obstructions.
  6. If the actuator fails testing, replace it and clear the code.
  7. If all else checks out, diagnose the BCM for internal faults, which may require reprogramming or replacement.

Camera Washer Actuator Circuit Pitfalls

  • A common oversight is assuming the BCM is at fault when the actual problem is a corroded connector at the actuator, which is exposed to road debris and moisture.
  • The code can set intermittently due to a partially broken wire that only loses connection when the vehicle vibrates, so wiggle-testing the harness is essential.
  • Some vehicles use the same washer pump for both windshield and camera, and a failing pump can set this code even though the windshield washers seem to work.
  • After replacing the actuator, the BCM may require a calibration or learn procedure to recognize the new component, which is often missed.
  • A blocked nozzle can cause the actuator to draw excessive current, triggering the code without any electrical fault in the actuator itself.

Can I keep driving with B0119?

The vehicle remains safe to drive because the camera washer is a convenience feature and does not affect engine, braking, or steering. You can continue driving, but be aware that the rear camera may become dirty and reduce visibility when reversing; clean the lens manually if needed.

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