What Causes Car Windshield Wipers to Stop Working?
3 Answers
The reasons why car windshield wipers stop working are: 1. Blown fuse; 2. Burned-out motor; 3. Fault in the wiper linkage connection; 4. Malfunctioning wiper switch; 5. Faulty wiper circuit. Solutions for non-functioning windshield wipers include: 1. Using a multimeter to test the switch; 2. Utilizing an automotive multimeter to measure voltage, resistance, and current, combined with practical inspection; 3. Opening the fuse box to check for blown fuses; 4. Inspecting the motor for damage; 5. Replacing severely damaged wiper blades; 6. Observing wiper operation to determine if the linkage is faulty.
Last time my car's wipers stopped working, which really stressed me out. Turned out it was just a blown fuse. Most of the time, wiper failure could be due to fuse issues, motor malfunction, wiper blade jamming, or rusted wiper linkage. When it rains, don't panic - try activating them a few times first. If they still don't move, pop the hood and check the fuse box to inspect the corresponding fuse. Regularly clean your wiper blades while driving to prevent dust buildup that could cause jamming. I recommend fixing it promptly - don't delay, as impaired visibility in rain can easily lead to accidents. During routine maintenance, have technicians test your wiper system to avoid sudden breakdowns.
I've always enjoyed tinkering with my car. When the wipers stop working, first check the fuse—it's usually labeled as 'wiper' or similar in the fuse box. If the fuse is intact, try removing the wiper arm to inspect the linkage for looseness or rust seizure. If the motor is faulty, you might hear a faint squeaking sound but no movement; a malfunctioning switch may require testing the circuit continuity with a multimeter. A quick trick is to spray some windshield washer fluid to see if the wipers budge, ruling out jamming. It's always wise to keep spare fuses handy—don't get caught unprepared during rainy days. Regularly lubricating the linkage joints and wiper brackets can extend their lifespan.
