Code Definition

B1617 — Wiper Rear Disable Switch Circuit Short To Battery

System: Body  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Ford

About B1617

B1617 is a manufacturer-specific body diagnostic trouble code recorded for Ford vehicles. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

When B1617 is stored, the module has detected a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit.

Scanning & clearing: Body (B) codes are often stored in the body control module, airbag module, or climate module. A basic OBD-II tool usually will not read body codes — an enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is typically required.

B1617 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The B1617 code is set by the Generic Electronic Module (GEM) on Ford vehicles when battery voltage is detected on the rear wiper disable switch input when it should not be present. The GEM applies a defined reference state to the disable switch input and watches for a transition that follows the tailgate or rear glass position. Unexpected battery voltage on this circuit is recognised as a short to power, typically caused by chafed insulation or moisture bridging connector pins. When this code is set, the rear wiper interlock cannot be evaluated correctly, so the wiper may run when it should be...

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