What to Do When the Windshield Wiper Doesn't Return to Its Original Position?

[LaJohnny]

If the windshield wiper doesn't return to its original position, the following checks should be performed: 1. Check if the motor is functioning properly: After identifying the issue, follow the principle of checking external components first and then internal ones, starting with simple checks before moving to 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 of the problem. 2. Check if the wiper is stuck or has an open circuit: Once the motor is confirmed to be working correctly, proceed to inspect other potential issues, such as whether the wiper has an open circuit or is stuck. These are relatively simple checks. 3. Check if the hardware lacks lubrication, causing excessive friction: If none of the above issues are found, examine whether insufficient lubrication of the hardware is causing excessive friction, preventing the spring from automatically returning to its original position. If so, apply lubricating oil to the surface of the relevant components.

[DelSamantha]

I've noticed that wiper blades not returning to their original position is quite common, possibly due to mechanical jamming or motor issues. When dealing with this, I first park and check if there are leaves or debris stuck under the wiper arm, then gently push it back to test. If that doesn't work, I check if the fuse is blown—usually, the fuse box under the hood has labels. Motor overheating or loose linkage can also cause this issue. I sometimes tighten screws with a wrench or spray some lubricant, but avoid forcing it to prevent damage. If this happens while driving in the rain, I immediately slow down and pull over—safety comes first. If I can't fix it myself, I quickly head to a repair shop for a professional to check the motor or control switch, avoiding delays. As a habit, I clean the wiper system every quarter to prevent small issues from turning into big problems.

[McBrantley]

I've encountered the issue of windshield wipers not returning to their resting position several times, and it's quite annoying. At the time, I tried turning the switch off and restarting the system, which sometimes helped reset their position. Check the connection points of the wiper arms and manually move them to test for smoothness; if there's noticeable stiffness, it might be due to insufficient lubrication or rust—spraying some machine oil can help. Another trick is to inspect the control circuit for any short circuits by unplugging and reconnecting the connectors to check the contacts. However, I recommend not delaying—if these steps don't work, drive straight to the 4S shop. They often diagnose it as motor aging or linkage problems requiring part replacements. For safety, ensuring clear visibility while driving is paramount, and regular maintenance can also reduce the risk of malfunctions. I make it a habit to clean the mechanical parts of the wipers during every car wash.

[McClayton]

Wiper blades not returning to their position can affect driving safety, especially in rainy conditions with limited visibility. The solution is to immediately slow down, pull over, and check the cause. Common issues include wiper arms being stuck by tree branches or mechanical linkages freezing—try gently removing the obstruction. A faulty switch might also be the cause; ensure it's properly turned off when operating. If you can't fix it yourself, don't risk driving—call roadside assistance or visit a repair shop. Safety comes first, and keeping your windshield clean can prevent similar issues. I check the wear on my wiper blades weekly and replace them promptly to avoid accidents.

[OMalachi]

The wiper not returning to its home position is something I focus on for preventive maintenance. The main causes are usually lack of lubrication in the mechanical linkage, aging motor, or incorrect installation. Regularly cleaning the windshield and wiper blades, and adding some anti-rust oil to the joints can prevent sticking. Every quarter, I check if the mounting screws are loose and tighten them if necessary. If the wiper fails to return, test if the switch operates smoothly—sometimes resetting the system helps. However, if components are damaged, seeking professional help is cost-effective. Investing in high-quality wiper components reduces future hassles. Before driving in the rain, I always test the return function to ensure peace of mind. Developing simple maintenance habits keeps the car running smoothly.