What Does B1614 Mean?
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal short-to-ground condition in the rear wiper mode select switch circuit. The BCM monitors the voltage signal from the rear wiper switch, and when it detects a voltage that is lower than expected (near 0V instead of the normal operating range), it sets this code. This prevents the rear wiper system from operating correctly or at all, as the BCM cannot properly interpret switch position commands.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged or chafed wiring harness between rear wiper switch and BCM creating a short to ground
30%
Faulty rear wiper mode select switch with internal short circuit
15%
Corroded or moisture-damaged connector at switch or BCM causing intermittent ground fault
10%
Failed Body Control Module with internal circuit damage on switch input channel
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of rear wiper switch wiring harness from tailgate/liftgate through body routing to BCM, checking for pinched, chafed, or damaged wires especially at hinge points and grommets. Look for exposed copper or wire damage.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the rear wiper mode select switch connector and measure resistance between the switch signal wire terminal (at harness side) and known good chassis ground using a digital multimeter. Reading should be infinite ohms (open circuit); low resistance indicates a short to ground in the harness.
3
Step 3: With switch still disconnected, measure resistance across the switch terminals while cycling through all switch positions. Compare readings to manufacturer specifications (typically 100-10k ohms varying by position). Zero ohms or erratic readings indicate faulty switch.
4
Step 4: Inspect all connectors in the circuit for corrosion, pushed-out pins, or moisture intrusion. Clean connectors with electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease. Pay special attention to tailgate/liftgate connectors exposed to weather.
5
Step 5: If wiring and switch test good, perform BCM input circuit test by backprobing the BCM connector with switch connected and measure voltage on the signal wire while operating switch through all modes. Should see varying voltage (typically 0.5-4.5V range); constant 0V with switch operation confirms BCM internal fault.
6
Step 6: Clear codes, reconnect all components, and operate rear wiper through all modes. Monitor for code return using live data to verify repair success.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $600
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the Body Control Module (BCM) has detected an abnormal short-to-ground condition in the rear wiper mode select switch circuit. The BCM monitors the voltage signal from the rear wiper switch, and when it detects a voltage that is lower than expected (near 0...
The most common cause of B1614 (Wiper Rear Mode Select Switch Circuit Short To Ground) is: Damaged or chafed wiring harness between rear wiper switch and BCM creating a short to ground
Typical repair costs for B1614 range from $100 to $600, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving as this affects only rear wiper operation. Repair is not urgent but should be addressed before poor weather conditions where rear visibility is needed. No immediate safety risk to vehicle operation.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B1614 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Body
System
Body Control System - Rear Wiper/Washer System
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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