Troubleshooting Guide: Windshield Wiper Stopped Working

You rarely think about windshield wipers until they fail. And when they do, it is a reminder of just how essential they are for safe driving. Whether it is a quick shower or a heavy storm, functioning wipers are critical for windshield clarity.

Understanding why your windshield wipers stopped working can help you fix the problem faster when it happens and might prevent it from happening at the worst possible time.

In this blog, learn the causes of windshield wiper failures, simple troubleshooting techniques to address them, and when you need professional help.

Understanding Windshield Wiper Components

Understanding the different components of your windshield wiper system is essential to maintaining the clarity of your windshield, and they function as a small team. These elements consist of:

• Wiper Blades: They are rubber strips that swipe across your windshield, clearing away rain, snow, or dirt so you can see clearly.
• Wiper Arms: Metal components that attach the blades to the motor, allowing them to move
• Wiper Motor: This little motor is the powerhouse behind the whole system, without which nothing moves.
• Wiper Linkage: It helps to connect the motor to the wiper arms, helping them move in sync.
• Control Switch: It is the lever or button that controls the speed and frequency of the wipers. It is easy to use, but if this switch fails, you cannot control the wipers.

Common Reasons of Windshield Wiper Stopped Working

There are some common reasons why your windshield wipers may have stopped working. Let us look at them:

• Loose Pivot Nuts: They may hinder the proper working of the windshield wipers.
• Blown Fuse: It cuts power to the motor, causing the wipers to stop entirely.
• Faulty Wiper Motor: If the motor burns out or stops, it hinders the working of your wipers.
• Torn Wiper Blades: Worn-out or torn wiper blades are ineffective in clearing the windshield.
• Electrical Issues: Disconnected wiring can stop the movement of windshield wipers.

Troubleshooting Steps

You can use these simple procedures to troubleshoot your wipers if they have suddenly stopped working:

1. Check the Wiper Blades

• Inspect the blades for any signs of wear, like cracks or splits.
• Clean the blades with warm, soapy water to remove any dirt buildup.

2. Tighten the Wiper Arms

• Ensure that the wiper arms are not loose or bent. You can use a wrench to tighten pivot nuts if they are loose.

3. Test the Wiper Motor

• Turn on the wipers, and if the motor is silent, it may need replacement.

4. Examine the Wiring

• Inspect the electric connections for any loose or damaged wires.

5. Check the Fuse

• If the wiper fuse of your car is blown, replace it with one of the same amperage.

6. Test the Washer Fluid System

• If your washer fluid is not spraying, check for a clogged nozzle or an empty reservoir.

When to Seek Professional Help

If temporary fixes don’t help, and you end up asking, “Why are my windshield wipers not working?” It is time to consult professional help.

If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional help so you can have a safe driving experience.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

There are many ways to keep your windshield wipers in good condition. Here are a few tips to help you out:

• Change your car’s wiper blades every six to twelve months or when you begin to see wear and tear.
• Dirt buildup that could hinder wiper performance can be avoided with routine windshield washing.
• Use the appropriate washer fluid for your climate, particularly when it is cold outside.
• Inspect wiper components periodically for any signs of wear.

Conclusion

Windshield wiper issues are common but often easy to fix. If your windshield problems seem significant, it makes you question, “Why are my car wipers not working?” Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure you stay safe on the road.

If you need help from expert technicians, NuVision Auto Glass provides reliable Auto glass repair service, Windshield replacement & repair & ADAS Calibration service to get you back on track, rain or shine.

Get a quote today to learn more about our repair services!

FAQs

1. How do you know if your windshield wiper motor is blown?

If your wipers don’t move and you don’t hear any sound from the motor when you activate them, the motor is likely blown.

2. Why did my windshield wipers stop working in the rain?

Your windshield wiper could stop working due to a blown fuse, a faulty motor, or even worn-out wiper blades unable to handle the rain.

3. Why did my windshield wipers suddenly stop working?

Sudden failure could result from electrical issues, such as a blown fuse or disconnected wiring, or mechanical issues, like loose pivot nuts or a damaged motor.