How to Fix a Windshield Wiper That Won't Move?

[MacAlivia]

There are mainly 4 methods to fix a car windshield wiper that won't move: 1. Check if there are fine streaks, fog, or linear residues on the glass, causing foreign objects to adhere or the blade tip to be damaged. If so, clean the blade tip promptly or replace the wiper blade. 2. Check if the wiper's swing amplitude is irregular or if the wiper jumps abnormally. If so, clean the glass thoroughly or replace the wiper blade. 3. Check if the contact surface of the wiper rubber fully adheres to the glass surface, causing wiping residues. If so, replace the wiper blade promptly. 4. Check if the glass surface appears in a water film state after wiping, causing the wiper arm to rust or deform due to external force. If so, replace the wiper promptly.

[TessaLynn]

As someone who frequently works on my own car, I have quite a bit of experience dealing with wiper failures. Recently, my car's wipers suddenly stopped working during rainy weather, and I immediately pulled over to inspect them. The first step is to check the fuse—look for one labeled 'WIPER' or something similar in the engine bay or interior fuse box. If it's blackened, just spend a few bucks to replace it. Next, inspect the wiring connections for looseness or corrosion, especially since rainy conditions can exacerbate these issues. If the fuse is intact, listen for a humming sound from the motor when you turn on the wiper switch—no sound indicates a switch or circuit problem, while a humming sound without movement suggests mechanical jamming. Try manually pushing the wiper arm to check for smooth movement; if it's stiff, spray some WD-40 to lubricate the joints. I keep small tools like pliers and spare fuses in my car—learning basic maintenance can be a lifesaver in rainy conditions. However, if the issue is complex, like a faulty motor, don't force it—head to a repair shop immediately. Regularly cleaning the wiper joints is key to prevention and can extend their lifespan.

[OBella]

I discovered that when the wipers stop working, the primary advice for safety-first drivers is not to drive, especially in the rain. Last week, while driving in heavy rain, my wipers suddenly stopped, making it nearly impossible to see the road. I immediately turned on the hazard lights and pulled over. For a quick check: first, try gently shaking the wiper arm to see if it's stuck—this can provide a temporary fix but shouldn’t be relied on long-term. Next, locate the fuse box—its position varies by car model, either under the hood or near the driver’s seat—and replace the corresponding fuse with a new one. If that doesn’t work, avoid forcing it to prevent accidents; calling a tow truck to a professional repair shop is the safest option. I routinely check my wipers when parked, applying lubricant or anti-rust spray to reduce malfunctions. Poor visibility in the rain poses significant risks, so developing a habit of testing wipers before rain is crucial to prioritize safety for yourself and others. Don’t delay repairs—small wiper issues can escalate into costly repairs if neglected.

[Rodney]

As an amateur mechanic who enjoys studying mechanical details, I would approach the issue of non-functioning windshield wipers from several technical angles. Potential causes include a blown fuse, motor failure, seized linkage, or switch damage. The first step is to open the fuse box and replace the wiper fuse – a low-cost and easy operation. Next, test the motor: listen for operational sounds when turning on the switch; if silent, check the switch or wiring connections. If there's sound but no movement, push the wiper arm to check mechanical resistance – minor sticking can be resolved with cleaning and lubricant. If these steps don't work, consider using a multimeter to test circuit voltage and identify the fault source. A common oversight is neglecting that rain sensors in automatic models may interfere, requiring system reset. Safety tip: always park and disconnect power before inspection to prevent short circuits. DIY replacement parts save money, but complex issues are time-saving when handled by professionals.