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B0111 — Camera Washer Actuator H

Generic OBD-II · all makesBody

OBD-II code B0111 indicates a fault in the control circuit for the camera washer actuator designated 'H' on the vehicle. This code is set when the body control module (BCM) or related module detects an open, short, or out-of-range signal in the actuator circuit that pumps washer fluid over an ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) camera lens. Because the camera lens must remain clean for lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition, or similar features, the system disables or limits the affected ADAS function when this code is stored.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed camera washer pump or actuator

The pump motor itself is the most common failure point because it sees repeated use, is exposed to moisture, and contains internal brushes and seals that wear out. A seized or open motor winding will set a circuit fault.

2. Damaged, corroded, or shorted wiring or connector

The harness running to the washer pump is often routed near the front of the vehicle where it is exposed to road salt, moisture, and vibration. Broken wires, chafed insulation, or corroded pins at the pump connector are frequent causes.

3. Clogged washer nozzle, line, or reservoir screen

A blockage in the fluid path can cause the pump motor to draw excessive current or stall, which the module interprets as a circuit fault even though the electrical components are intact.

4. Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying the pump

An open fuse removes power from the actuator circuit and produces a stored code for the affected actuator. A relay with burned contacts can produce the same symptom with intermittent operation.

5. Software calibration or module configuration error

After a windshield replacement, camera recalibration, or BCM reflash, the actuator circuit may be misconfigured, causing the module to expect a different load than what is present. A relearn or software update can resolve this without parts replacement.

6. Body control module internal fault

The BCM itself contains the driver circuitry for the washer actuator and can fail internally, but this is uncommon compared with pump, wiring, and fluid-path failures. BCM replacement should only be considered after every other possibility has been ruled out by direct testing.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored DTCs from the BCM and any ADAS module with a scan tool, and note freeze-frame data to confirm the code is current and not historic.
  2. Inspect the washer fluid reservoir, lines, and nozzle for clogs, kinks, or leaks, and confirm fluid is present and reaching the pump inlet.
  3. Check the fuse and relay for the camera washer circuit; replace a blown fuse only after identifying the underlying short or overload.
  4. Back-probe the pump connector with the circuit energized to measure voltage and ground; compare readings to the wiring diagram to determine whether the fault is supply, ground, or control side.
  5. Command the washer pump on with the scan tool's bidirectional function and listen for operation; if there is no movement, apply direct 12 V to the pump to test the motor independently.
  6. Perform a wiring and connector integrity test, checking for continuity, shorts to ground and power, and terminal tension at the pump and BCM connectors before condemning any module.

Code facts & related codes

SystemBody
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Vehicles this code applies to

The definition is universal; the diagnostics are engine-specific. Open your vehicle for the codes documented for it:

2014 BMW 535d2014 BMW 535d xDrive

Frequently asked

Is it safe to drive with code B0111 stored?

Yes, in most cases the vehicle remains safe to drive because the washer system is not safety-critical. However, ADAS features that depend on the camera (such as lane keeping or traffic sign recognition) may be limited or disabled until the fault is repaired.

Do I need to replace the body control module to fix B0111?

Almost never. The BCM is a frequent recommendation seen on forums, but in real-world diagnostics the washer pump, wiring, and fluid path account for the vast majority of B0111 cases. A module replacement is justified only after the pump, harness, fuses, and grounds have all been verified good by direct electrical testing.

Can low washer fluid cause B0111?

Low fluid alone typically does not set this code because most systems monitor electrical current rather than fluid level. However, running the pump dry for an extended time can overheat the motor and damage it, so keeping the reservoir filled is good practice.

Will B0111 clear on its own?

If the underlying fault is intermittent (such as a loose connector), the code may go to history and the warning lamp may extinguish for a time, but it will typically return once the same condition is detected again. A proper repair followed by a scan-tool clear is the reliable path.