Faulty washer fluid level sensor; Damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the sensor connector; Corroded or loose electrical connector at the sensor; Open circuit in the control circuit wiring; Short to ground or short to voltage in the control circuit; Failed body control module (less common)

DTC codes / B01xx · Airbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems / B0133

B0133A/V Sensor Washer Fluid E Control Circuit

Q: What does code B0133 mean?

A/V Sensor Washer Fluid E Control Circuit. B0133 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected a fault in the electrical circuit for the windshield washer fluid level sensor, specifically the 'E' control circuit. The computer monitors the expected voltage or current on this circuit and sets the code when the signal falls outside the normal range, often due to an open, short, or sensor failure.

B0133 indicates that the body control module (BCM) has detected a fault in the electrical circuit for the windshield washer fluid level sensor, specifically the 'E' control circuit. The computer monitors the expected voltage or current on this circuit and sets the code when the signal falls outside the normal range, often due to an open, short, or sensor failure.

SystemBody

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAirbags, seats, doors, lights and comfort systems

Symptoms you may notice

Washer fluid level warning light illuminated on the dashboard
No visible change in washer fluid level warning after refilling the reservoir
Intermittent or flickering washer fluid warning light
Often no other symptoms besides the warning light
Washer spray function may still work normally
Other body control module functions may be unaffected

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty washer fluid level sensor
Damaged or disconnected wiring harness at the sensor connector
Corroded or loose electrical connector at the sensor
Open circuit in the control circuit wiring
Short to ground or short to voltage in the control circuit
Failed body control module (less common)

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify the washer fluid level is correct and the warning light persists
Inspect the sensor connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or looseness
Disconnect the sensor and check for reference voltage and ground at the harness connector
Test the sensor resistance or signal output according to manufacturer specifications
Check continuity and resistance of the control circuit wiring between sensor and BCM
Replace the washer fluid level sensor if testing indicates it is faulty
Repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors, then clear the code and verify repair

Washer fluid sensor circuit pitfalls

A low washer fluid level can trigger this code on some systems, so always check the fluid level before diagnosing electrical faults.
The 'E' control circuit designation may refer to a specific ground or signal path that varies by manufacturer, so consult the factory wiring diagram for your vehicle.
Corrosion at the sensor connector is a common cause, especially in areas with road salt exposure, and can mimic a failed sensor.
Aftermarket or incorrect washer fluid can cause the sensor to malfunction due to conductivity changes, leading to false level readings.
The BCM may set this code only after a certain number of ignition cycles with the fault present, so intermittent issues can be challenging to reproduce.

Can I keep driving with B0133?

This code does not affect vehicle safety or drivability, so you can continue driving. However, you should manually check the washer fluid level regularly until the fault is repaired to ensure proper visibility.

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.