Why Won't the Windshield Wipers Move?
3 Answers
When the car's windshield wipers malfunction and won't move, you can check the following possible causes: 1. Open the hood and observe if the drive linkage is dislocated (this is the most common reason). 2. Check if the fuse is intact. 3. Disconnect the motor wiring plug, turn on the power, and use a multimeter to measure if there is voltage. 4. If the fuse is intact but the motor has no voltage, check the wiring and the turn signal combination switch. 5. Generally, a burnt motor will have a scorched smell. 6. If you turn on the power and measure normal voltage at the wiper motor, consider that the motor may be damaged.
I've also encountered a situation where the windshield wipers wouldn't move at all. That time, I was driving on a rainy night, and it was really nerve-wracking. The main causes usually fall into these categories: a blown fuse is the most common issue—it's located in the fuse box under the hood, so check the corresponding wiper fuse to see if it's melted. Next, the wiper motor might be faulty; if you hear a humming sound but the wipers don't move, that could be the problem. Another possibility is poor contact in the switch or a relay failure, requiring inspection of the wiper stalk switch under the steering wheel. Worn-out wiring or loose connectors can also interrupt the current. The most annoying issue is when the wiper linkage gets stuck or blocked by debris. I recommend starting with the simplest check—the fuse. If you're unsure, quickly visit a nearby repair shop and have a mechanic test the circuit with a multimeter. Never force the wipers to work in rainy conditions—it's extremely dangerous if heavy rain suddenly reduces visibility. Regular vehicle maintenance, like cleaning the wipers and checking battery voltage, can prevent many issues.
Wipers not moving? Most likely due to these reasons: A blown fuse is the number one culprit, those small pieces hidden in the fuse box can easily fail; The wiper motor itself may be aging or burned out, often occurring after long-term use or heavy loads during snowy days; Malfunctioning combination switch or relay can interrupt signal transmission; Short circuits or broken wires are common due to rubber deterioration; Also, wiper arms might freeze or experience mechanical jamming, especially in cold winters. You can do preliminary checks yourself: Open the hood to locate the fuse, replace it if blown; Then check if the wiper switch feels abnormal; If there's no movement, listen for any motor sound—no sound might indicate wiring issues. It's best not to disassemble randomly; get to a professional repair shop early to avoid compromising driving safety. Develop regular inspection habits, like wiping the wiper blades during car washes for peace of mind.
