What to Do When the Windshield Wiper Stops Moving While in Use?
2 Answers
Solutions for windshield wipers that stop moving while in use: 1. Check if the connection between the wiper arm and the linkage is correct; 2. Lift the wiper and inspect the rubber blade for any damage and the elasticity of the rubber. If the blade is aged or cracked, replace the wiper; 3. Set the wiper switch to various speed positions and check if the wiper maintains a consistent speed at different settings, especially in intermittent mode, to ensure normal operation; 4. Inspect the motor's operation for any abnormalities, check for wear between the linkage components, and ensure there is no lack of lubrication in the linkage.
It's quite frustrating when I suddenly find the windshield wipers not working, especially since I often drive out and encounter this issue. First, I immediately find a safe place to pull over and check, avoiding any risks in the rain. The most common reason for wipers not moving is a blown fuse. I locate the wiper circuit fuse in the fuse box under the hood and replace it with one of the correct amperage. If the fuse is fine, it might be the motor's overheating protection. I wait a few minutes for it to cool down and try again. Another possibility is that the linkage or transmission mechanism is rusted and stuck. I try spraying some lubricant or gently moving the wiper arm by hand to free it. If the motor is broken, I can tell by the absence of any humming sound, and then it's time to replace the motor. However, I don’t force it—if I lack the right tools, I just head to a repair shop to avoid causing more damage, spending extra money, and wasting time. For regular maintenance, I make a habit of spraying some rust inhibitor on the wiper components to prevent this issue.
