The OBD‑II code B0118 indicates that the vehicle’s Camera Washer Actuator (P) has failed to activate or has malfunctioned during a diagnostic test. This actuator is responsible for cleaning the camera lens that monitors the rear‑view or driver‑assist systems.
The electric motor that drives the camera washer cannot engage, often due to worn brushes, a broken gear, or internal corrosion.
A stuck solenoid or valve prevents the actuator from moving the washer brush, causing the camera lens to stay uncleaned.
Corroded, frayed, or disconnected wiring between the actuator and the control module can block power or signal delivery.
Repeated use can erode the brush or its housing, leading to ineffective cleaning and a failure signal.
A rare software or hardware glitch in the camera system’s control module may misinterpret actuator status and set the code.
The definition is universal; the diagnostics are engine-specific. Open your vehicle for the codes documented for it:
Replacing the PCM is generally unnecessary and rarely resolves this code because the issue is almost always mechanical or electrical within the actuator or its wiring.
Cleaning the lens may eliminate a temporary warning, but if the actuator or its wiring is faulty, the code will recur after a few uses.
Typical lifespan is 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions; wear or corrosion can reduce that interval.