Faulty washer fluid level sensor; Damaged or disconnected wiring or connector at the sensor; Corroded or dirty sensor connector terminals; Open or short circuit in the control circuit between the sensor and BCM; Failed body control module (BCM) or internal driver fault; Washer fluid reservoir contaminated or sensor stuck due to debris

DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0131

B0131A/V Sensor Washer Fluid C Control Circuit

Q: What does code B0131 mean?

A/V Sensor Washer Fluid C Control Circuit. B0131 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected a fault in the control circuit for the washer fluid level sensor, often referred to as the A/V sensor (audible/visual sensor) for the washer fluid system. The BCM monitors the circuit for expected voltage or resistance and sets this code when the signal is out of range, indicating an open, short, or component failure.

B0131 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected a fault in the control circuit for the washer fluid level sensor, often referred to as the A/V sensor (audible/visual sensor) for the washer fluid system. The BCM monitors the circuit for expected voltage or resistance and sets this code when the signal is out of range, indicating an open, short, or component failure.

SystemBody

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

Washer fluid low warning light illuminated on the dashboard even when the reservoir is full
No warning light when the washer fluid level is actually low
Intermittent or flickering washer fluid warning light
Often no symptoms besides the warning light
Other body control module functions (like wipers or lights) may be unaffected

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty washer fluid level sensor
Damaged or disconnected wiring or connector at the sensor
Corroded or dirty sensor connector terminals
Open or short circuit in the control circuit between the sensor and BCM
Failed body control module (BCM) or internal driver fault
Washer fluid reservoir contaminated or sensor stuck due to debris

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify the washer fluid level and inspect the reservoir for debris or contamination
Check the sensor connector for corrosion, tightness, and proper seating
Inspect the wiring harness for damage, chafing, or loose pins
Test the sensor resistance or output signal with a multimeter and compare to specifications
Check for continuity and voltage on the control circuit between the sensor and BCM
If the circuit and sensor test good, diagnose or replace the BCM as needed

Washer fluid sensor circuit quirks

A common oversight is assuming the sensor is bad when the real issue is a chafed wire behind the inner fender liner or bumper cover.
Some vehicles use a simple float switch while others use a capacitive sensor; the diagnostic approach differs, so consult the service information for your specific system.
The BCM may set this code if the sensor circuit is disconnected during other repairs, such as bumper removal, and the code may not clear until the circuit is properly reconnected.
Washer fluid that is not the correct type or is contaminated can cause the sensor to give false readings, so always use the recommended fluid.
A weak or failing battery can cause erratic BCM behavior and set false circuit codes, so check battery health before replacing modules.

Can I keep driving with B0131?

This code does not affect vehicle safety or drivability, so you can continue driving. However, you may lose the low washer fluid warning, so check the fluid level manually until the fault is repaired.

Tools that help

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