Engine-CodesGeneric – B1446

B1446 Code - Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure

Quick Answer

The B1446 diagnostic trouble code indicates a Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure. Common causes include Faulty wiper motor, Damaged wiper park sense switch, Corroded or damaged wiring in the wiper circuit. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B1446 indicates Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty wiper motor, Damaged wiper park sense switch, Corroded or damaged wiring in the wiper circuit.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
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Code B1446 Description

The B1446 diagnostic trouble code indicates a Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure. This means that there is a malfunction in the circuit responsible for detecting when the wipers should return to their resting or "parked" position after use. This issue can affect the vehicle's overall performance, particularly the functionality of the windshield wipers. The wiper park sense circuit is crucial for ensuring that the wipers operate correctly and return to the correct position once turned off.

OBDII Code B1446 - Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure
B1446 Code - Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure

Common Causes of B1446

  1. Faulty wiper motor.
  2. Damaged wiper park sense switch.
  3. Corroded or damaged wiring in the wiper circuit.
  4. Faulty wiper control module.
  5. Water damage to the wiper system components.

Symptoms of B1446

  1. Wipers not returning to the correct parked position.
  2. Wipers not working at all.
  3. Wipers operating erratically or inconsistently.
  4. Dashboard warning light indicating wiper system malfunction.

How to Fix B1446

  1. Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of the wiper system components, including the motor, park sense switch, wiring, and control module.
  2. Test the wiper motor and park sense switch for proper functionality and replace if necessary.
  3. Check for any corroded or damaged wiring in the wiper circuit and repair or replace as needed.
  4. If the issue persists, consider replacing the wiper control module.
  5. Once all necessary repairs have been made, test the wiper system to ensure that the wipers park correctly and operate smoothly.

Cost to Fix B1446

The cost of repairing a Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. On average, the cost of parts for this repair can range from $50 to $200, while labor costs can range from $100 to $300. It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary based on factors such as the vehicle make and model, the location of the repair shop, and the hourly labor rates. It's advisable to consult with a professional mechanic to get a more accurate cost estimate for addressing this issue.

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Code B1446 Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1446 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure)?

The common symptoms of B1446 include malfunctioning windshield wipers, erratic wiper behavior, or wipers getting stuck in one position.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure)?

Possible causes of B1446 include a faulty wiper motor, damaged wiper linkage, faulty wiper park sense circuit, or issues with the wiper control module.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure)?

Diagnosing B1446 involves checking the wiper motor and linkage for proper function, testing the wiper park sense circuit for continuity, and scanning the vehicle's computer for error codes.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure)?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with B1446 unresolved, as malfunctioning windshield wipers can impair your visibility and compromise driving safety.

5. How can I repair OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure) at home?

You can attempt to repair B1446 at home by checking and cleaning the wiper motor connections, inspecting the wiper linkage for damage, and testing the wiper park sense circuit with a multimeter.

6. Is it necessary to replace the entire wiper motor if OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure) is triggered?

In some cases, replacing the wiper motor may be necessary to resolve B1446, especially if the motor is found to be faulty or causing issues with the wiper park sense circuit.

7. Should I reset the OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure) after making repairs?

Yes, after repairing the underlying issue causing B1446, it is recommended to reset the trouble code using an OBDII scanner to clear the error and see if the problem has been resolved.

8. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure)?

Yes, extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or extreme cold can sometimes exacerbate existing issues with the wiper system, leading to the triggering of B1446.

9. What should I do if OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure) keeps coming back after repairs?

If B1446 keeps reoccurring even after repairs, it may indicate a persistent underlying issue with the wiper system that requires further inspection or professional diagnosis.

10. Is it safe to continue driving if OBDII code B1446 (Wiper Park Sense Circuit Failure) temporarily goes away on its own?

While the code may disappear temporarily, it is not advisable to continue driving without addressing the underlying cause of B1446, as it can lead to potential wiper system failure while on the road.

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