How to Operate the Windshield Wipers?

[ZacharyFitz]

Windshield wipers are used to clear small amounts of water or debris from the front windshield. The operation method for car windshield wipers is as follows: 1. Locate the wiper switch. For most vehicles on the market, the wiper switch is positioned on the right-hand stalk behind the steering wheel, typically in the form of a lever. 2. Push the lever upwards, and the wipers will start working in a continuous mode. 3. Release the lever, and it will automatically return to its original position, stopping the wipers. Information about wiper icons is as follows: 1. OFF – The front wipers are in a stopped state. 2. INT – Automatic intermittent operation. Pull the lever down one notch, and the wipers will start working intermittently. This mode requires manual reset. 3. LO – Continuous operation. Pull the lever down another notch, and the wipers will operate continuously at an automatic rate. 4. HI – Continuous high-speed operation. Pull the lever all the way down, and the wipers will work at high speed.

[IsabelRose]

Operating the windshield wipers is quite simple. Through my driving experience, I've found that it's mainly controlled by the lever beside the steering wheel. Gently pushing it up once activates the intermittent mode (INT) with slower wiping frequency; pushing it to the middle position (LO) engages low-speed continuous wiping; fully pushing it down (HI) enables high-speed wiping. Pulling the lever backward sprays washer fluid while the wipers operate, which is ideal for cleaning the windshield. In light rain, I use intermittent mode to reduce wear; during heavy rain, I switch to high speed to ensure clear visibility. Regularly check the wiper blades for cracks or aging, and replace the rubber strips every six months to avoid poor wiping that could compromise safety. Additionally, avoid frequently spraying water and wiping in dry weather to prevent accelerated damage to the wiper blades. If the wipers suddenly get stuck, stop immediately and inspect or seek professional help. Remember to operate gently without excessive force.

[MacMalachi]

When learning to operate the windshield wipers, I took time to familiarize myself with the control stalk position—typically located on the right or left side of the steering wheel. Pushing it to the first upper position activates intermittent wiping, the middle position sets low-speed wiping, and pushing it all the way down engages high-speed wiping. Pulling the stalk backward sprays washer fluid to clean the windshield. Adjusting settings according to weather conditions is crucial—use intermittent mode for light rain and switch to high speed during heavy downpours. Initially, as a beginner driver, I often made mistakes due to unfamiliarity, but now I understand the importance of regular wiper blade maintenance, such as checking for deformed rubber or accumulated dust. Stay focused during operation, especially in low-visibility rainy conditions. New drivers are advised to study the vehicle manual thoroughly and test wiper functionality before each trip to ensure reliable performance when it matters most.

[DeSebastian]

From a safety perspective, wiper operation directly impacts driving safety. Before each drive, I check them: push the lever up for intermittent mode, middle position for low-speed wiping, and down for high-speed wiping; pull backward for washer fluid spray and wiping. Choose intermittent mode in light rain to reduce wiper blade wear, and switch to high speed during heavy rain to improve visibility. Remember not to overuse the washer function in clear weather to avoid wasting fluid or damaging components. Regular maintenance is crucial—I replace wiper blades quarterly to keep the rubber strips soft and crack-free. Incorrect operation may lead to poor windshield cleaning or equipment failure, so handle the controls steadily and precisely. Driving without wipers in rain severely reduces visibility, so always adjust them promptly.