How to Activate the Wiper Maintenance Mode?
2 Answers
Ensure the vehicle is parked and the engine is turned off. Turn on the vehicle's ignition switch, then quickly turn it off or remove the key. Pull the wiper control lever down to the lowest position. Before driving, it's advisable to completely melt any ice on the windshield using the interior heater. The wipers will then enter the maintenance mode, allowing you to manually lift both wiper arms.
I often maintain my wiper blades myself, and activating the maintenance mode allows the wiper arms to stand upright for easy replacement. The specific method depends on the vehicle model. Most older cars are straightforward: after parking and turning off the engine, immediately operate the wiper stalk—for example, pull it down once within ten seconds, and the wipers will automatically stop in a vertical position. The time window for this is very short, so the action must be quick, or it will fail. High-end vehicles may require operation via the central control screen. For example, my SUV requires selecting the "Vehicle Maintenance" sub-option in the settings menu to trigger it. The key point is to activate it in cold weather to prevent the wipers from freezing to the windshield and tearing, thereby extending their lifespan. Before operating, ensure the battery has sufficient charge to avoid system unresponsiveness. If you make a mistake, avoid forcing the wiper arm, as this can easily damage the motor. Beginners are advised to check the user manual or refer to YouTube tutorials for different vehicle models like Toyota or Ford to learn the activation methods. Once you develop the habit, it saves both hassle and money.
