One Windshield Wiper Not Working - Need Help!

Car Maintenance & Repairs
1

I’ve got a bit of a problem with my car’s windshield wipers. It seems that one of them has decided to stop working completely. I’ve checked the wiper blade, and it looks fine, but it just won’t move when I activate the wipers.

I’ve done a little digging and thought I would reach out for some input on what to check next. Here’s what I’m considering:

Possible Causes:

  • Blown Fuse: Is it common for a blown fuse to affect just one wiper?
  • Faulty Wiper Motor: Could it be that the motor is only partially dead?
  • Wiper Linkage Issues: Is it possible there’s a problem with the linkage?

Troubleshooting Steps I’ve Tried:

  • Replacing the wiper blade.
  • Checking if the wiper works in different settings (intermittent vs. constant).

If anyone has experienced something similar or has suggestions on what to check next, I would really appreciate your input! It’s frustrating since it’s a safety issue, especially with the weather lately.

Thanks for any advice you can give!

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2

One common reason for a single windshield wiper not working is a faulty wiper motor. It can fail completely, or just one side can go out. Have you checked if the motor is functioning properly?

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3

Good point! Sometimes it can be the linkage too. If the arm attached to the motor is broken or jammed, that might prevent the wiper from moving.

4

I had a similar issue last month. Turns out the electrical connection to the motor was loose. A quick fix! Make sure to check the wires, as they can sometimes come loose.

5

That’s a great tip! It’s amazing how something so simple can cause a big problem. Did you need any special tools to fix it?

6

I didn’t need any special tools—just a screwdriver. The connection was right under the dashboard, really accessible! It’s worth checking before spending on new parts.

7

I’ve heard that wiper motors can be prone to failure, especially in older cars. If the motor is making noise but not moving, that might signal that it’s shot. Has anyone replaced a motor themselves?

8

I tried it once! It was a bit challenging but not impossible. Just make sure you have the right replacement motor handy and follow a guide online for best results.

9

Be careful with the linkage too, especially if it’s an older model. It can corrode and break over time, leading to one wiper not functioning.

10

That’s true! A thorough inspection might save you a trip to the mechanic. Has anyone tackled that before?

11

If you’re unsure, I recommend taking a look at all the components visually first. You might spot something obvious before diving deeper. Sometimes troubleshooting can lead to surprises!

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12

I guess if troubleshooting doesn’t work, you could always start a wiper motor dance party with just one wiper! :joy: But seriously, definitely a good idea to check the fuse too.

13

Always a solid suggestion! Fuses can blow unexpectedly, and it’s a quick fix if that’s the issue.

14

Thanks everyone, this has been super helpful! I’ll start with the motor and connections and keep you posted. It’s kind of interesting how many points of failure there can be.

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15

Hey there! If one of your windshield wipers isn’t working, the first thing to check is the fuse. A blown fuse could be the simplest fix! Consult your user manual for the exact location.

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16

Absolutely! And if the fuse is fine, try testing the wiper motor. Sometimes they just wear out. You can use a multimeter to check if it’s receiving power.

17

Great tips! Don’t forget to inspect the wiper blades too. If they’re damaged, it could impact functionality. Plus, it’s always good to replace them periodically!

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18

Very true! Also, check the wiper linkage. Sometimes it may be loose or disconnected. Ensure everything is securely attached.

19

If you’ve checked all of that and it’s still not working, it might be worth having a professional take a quick look. You don’t want to risk driving without reliable wipers!

20

True! But, let’s not get carried away. Even the pros have their off days! Sometimes, something might just be temporarily stuck.

4 Likes