Why Won't the Windshield Wipers Move?
2 Answers
When the windshield wipers won't move, it indicates a malfunction. You can try opening the hood to check if the transmission linkage is dislocated or inspect whether the fuse is intact. For those with more technical expertise, you can disconnect the motor wiring harness, turn on the power, and use a multimeter to measure if there is voltage. If the fuse is intact but the motor has no voltage, check the wiring and the turn signal combination switch for any issues. Windshield wipers are blade structures installed in front of the windshield, consisting of components such as the motor, reducer, four-bar linkage, wiper arm spindle, and wiper blade assembly. Their primary function is to clear rain, snow, and dust from the windshield that obstruct visibility.
I've been driving for years and have encountered the issue of windshield wipers not moving quite a few times. The most common cause is a problem with the wiper motor. The motor is located beneath the front windshield and can accumulate dust over time or get rusted due to water ingress, causing it to seize up and stop rotating. Alternatively, the motor brushes might be severely worn, preventing current from passing and causing the motor to stop working. There's also the wiper linkage mechanism, which connects the motor to the wiper arms. Severe rust or corrosion can cause it to bend or break, directly preventing the wipers from moving. External factors shouldn't be overlooked either, such as the wiper blade rubber hardening with age, pressing too hard against the glass and creating excessive resistance, or freezing up in winter. For maintenance, it's advisable to regularly clean the dust from the wiper groove and apply lubricating oil to prevent rust. From a safety perspective, if this happens during rainy weather, pull over immediately, turn on your hazard lights—driving with impaired visibility is too dangerous—and head to a professional repair shop as soon as possible.
