What to Do When the Windshield Wipers Won't Turn On?
3 Answers
Solutions for windshield wipers not turning on: 1. Check the wiper blades: If you usually neglect the maintenance of the car's wiper blades, you might find them severely damaged during rainy days and unable to function properly. Simply replace them with a new set of wiper blades in time. 2. Check the wiper motor: Open the car hood to locate the wiper motor. You can touch the motor with your hand; if it feels scalding hot, it indicates an internal short circuit. Replacing the motor will solve the issue. 3. Check the wiper linkage: The wiper linkage has many connection points. If any of these points malfunction, the wipers won't work properly. Observe the wiper's operation to determine if the linkage is faulty. 4. Check the wiper fuse: To protect the car's wiring, each electrical device is equipped with a fuse. If the wipers stop working, check if the wiper fuse is blown. You can replace the blown fuse with a spare one from the car.
A while ago, I encountered a situation where my windshield wipers suddenly stopped working while driving. It was a bit alarming at first because it was drizzling, and visibility was poor. I immediately pulled over to a safe spot on the roadside and checked the owner's manual. The fuse box was located under the steering wheel. After prying it open, I found that the wiper fuse had blown—a common issue. I went to a store, bought a new fuse, replaced it, and the problem was resolved. If the fuse isn't the issue, it could be a faulty switch or motor, which requires professional tools for diagnosis. Remember, if your wipers struggle in the rain, pull over and address the issue—never force your way through to avoid accidents. It's recommended to inspect the wiper system every six months and keep the blades clean to extend their lifespan.
As an experienced driver, I believe the first thing to check when the wipers don't work is the fuse, which is usually located in the fuse box under the dashboard - simply replace it if blown. Next, operate the switch to listen for any motor humming sound; no response likely indicates wiring or control component issues. I've encountered situations where the motor was faulty, requiring replacement, but the cost isn't high. In emergencies like sudden rain while driving, slow down, pull over safely and manually clean the windshield - don't rush to drive aggressively. Preventive maintenance is crucial: regularly clean the wiper arms to prevent debris jams, which can reduce sudden failures. Always address issues promptly to avoid safety hazards.
