What Causes Windshield Wipers Not to Return to Position?

[AshlynDella]

There are three main reasons why windshield wipers do not return to position: 1. Drive Motor: Malfunction of the wiper drive motor. 2. External Factors: Issues with the wiper's external components. 3. Wiring: Problems with the electrical wiring. Below are the repair methods for windshield wipers not returning to position: 1. Check if the motor is functioning properly: Follow the principle of checking external factors first and simpler issues before more complex ones to save time. Turn off the wiper motor, then turn it back on to check if it operates normally. If it does, the motor can be ruled out as the cause. 2. Check if the wiper is stuck or has an open circuit: After confirming the motor is fine, proceed to inspect other potential issues, such as whether the wiper is stuck or has an open circuit. 3. Check for insufficient lubrication: If none of the above issues are found, examine whether hardware components lack lubrication, causing excessive friction that prevents the spring from automatically returning to its original position. Apply lubricating oil to the surface of the components if necessary.

[LailaAnn]

The most frustrating experience with windshield wipers stopping halfway was last winter. Rushing to work early in the morning, I turned on the wipers only to have them get stuck in the middle of the windshield and not return, nearly making me late. Later, the mechanic told me that nine times out of ten, this happens because the reset switch inside the wiper motor is faulty—the motor doesn't receive the stop signal when it reaches the bottom. Another possibility is that the transmission linkage is bent; frequent bumps on the road can easily deform the metal rods. If the wiper arm isn't installed correctly, it can also interfere with the return motion—never force the wiper blade back by hand! Additionally, frozen rubber blades or leaves stuck in them can cause jamming, so always clear them first before testing.

[LaEverly]

Last month, my windshield wipers suddenly stopped in the middle of the glass and wouldn't retract. When I took it to the repair shop, I found out the issue was quite complicated. The technician used a multimeter to test and said there was a problem with the control circuit—it could be burnt relay contacts or poor contact in the wiper combination switch under the steering wheel. Winter is especially tricky because low temperatures can cause the linkage lubricant to solidify, making the transmission squeak and jam. During repairs, they had to remove the wiper cover plate, adjust the linkage angle, and check the motor brushes while they were at it. Also, the wiper fuse is often the culprit; if it blows, the headlight washer function will stop working too.

[Richard]

Last Saturday while driving in the rain, the wiper suddenly got stuck in the middle, so I quickly pulled over to check. If the tension of the wiper arm spring is insufficient, it won't be able to pull the rubber blade back into position. Trying to adjust it yourself with pliers can easily break it. Rust in the transmission mechanism is also common; dry friction in unlubricated bushings can cause sticking. The most troublesome issue is a faulty motor reset module, which requires replacing the entire transmission assembly. As a temporary fix, you can manually push it back into place, but avoid forcing it to prevent damage to the windshield. It's recommended to check the wipers before the rainy season and replace the rubber blades every six months to prevent sticking.