How do I completely turn off my windshield wipers?

To completely turn off your windshield wipers, set the wiper control to Off. This guide explains how to do it across common layouts—traditional stalk controls, dashboard dials, and rain-sensing systems—and what to do if the wipers won’t stop. Always prioritize safety and only adjust controls when the vehicle is parked or the ignition is in a safe state.

Identify your wiper control layout

Most modern cars use one of three control styles: a steering-column stalk with positions for Off, Intermittent, Low, and High; a dashboard dial or small switch for the wipers; or rain-sensing/automatic wipers that can engage without direct input. Knowing which system you have will determine how to disable it completely.

Traditional stalk controls

These controls use a lever on the side of the steering column. To switch off, you typically move the stalk to the Off position. If you temporarily select Intermittent, Low, or High, you can still return to Off to stop it.

Before attempting the step-by-step, note that the exact labeling can vary by vehicle. Use the following instructions as a general guide:

• Move the wiper stalk to the Off position. It is usually the outermost setting or labeled "Off." In some models you may need to rotate a small ring around the end of the stalk to the Off position.


• Verify that the blades are no longer sweeping and that the wiper parking mechanism returns to its resting position.


• If the stalk feels stuck or won’t move to Off, gently wiggle it back and forth and retry the Off position.

Conclusion: When set to Off, the wipers should remain stationary. If they continue to operate, there may be a fault in the switch or an electrical issue requiring professional service.

Dashboard dial or switch controls

Some cars replace the stalk with a rotary dial or small switch mounted on the dash or near the steering wheel. Turning the dial or selecting Off should stop the wipers.

Before attempting the steps, understand that some dials also control intermittent timing or speed in other settings. Use the following if your vehicle uses a dashboard control:

• Rotate or switch the control to the Off position, often labeled "Off" or shown as a zero (0).


• Check that the wipers stay still after selecting Off; if you see lingering or delayed movement, recheck the control and wait a moment for the mechanism to settle.

Conclusion: The Off setting is designed to halt all wiper activity. If the wipers still move, consult the owner’s manual for model-specific steps or seek a technician’s help.

Rain-sensing / automatic wipers

Vehicles equipped with rain-sensing wipers can automatically activate in wet conditions. To completely disable wiper activity, you must set the system to Off or disable the Auto mode, depending on the model.

Before proceeding, identify whether your car uses a dedicated Auto/Rain option on the stalk or a setting in the onboard menu:

• Move the stalk to Off. In many models this will override the Auto setting and prevent any triggering from moisture on the windshield.


• If there is a separate Auto or Rain toggle, disable Auto in the instrument cluster or infotainment settings, following the manual’s guidance.


• Test by simulating rain-free conditions to confirm that no automatic activation occurs.

Conclusion: In most cars, turning Auto Off or selecting Off on the stalk/dial will prevent rain-sensing activation. If you’re unsure how to disable Auto for your exact model, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealership for model-specific instructions.

Troubleshooting: Wipers won’t turn off

If the wipers persist despite trying the standard Off position, use these safety-focused checks before seeking service:

• Verify you’re using the correct control (stalk vs. dash dial) and that the ignition is in the appropriate position for operation.


• Check for a stuck stalk or a failed switch. Gently reposition the stalk and retry Off; a minor binding can sometimes cause continuous motion.


• Reset the vehicle’s electronics by turning the ignition off, waiting about 30 seconds, then turning back on and selecting Off again.


• Inspect relevant fuses for the wiper system. If you replace a fuse, use the same amperage rating and ensure the engine is off while replacing.

Important: If the wipers continue to operate while parked, or you hear unusual noises, stop the vehicle in a safe location and seek professional service. Driving with malfunctioning wipers is unsafe and can cause windshield damage.

Summary

In most vehicles, completely turning off windshield wipers is a matter of selecting the Off position on the wiper control, whether it’s a stalk, a dash dial, or a rain-sensing Auto mode. If you have rain-sensing wipers, disabling Auto or switching to Off will prevent automatic activation. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual for model-specific steps, and seek professional help if the wipers fail to stop or behave abnormally. Regular checks help ensure you stay prepared for changing weather without unexpected windshields issues.

Additional note: safety reminder

Always perform adjustments when the vehicle is parked or in a safe state. If you need to test wiper function while driving, do so cautiously and only in clear, low-risk conditions to avoid distracting yourself or others on the road.

Why won't my wipers shut off?

Your wipers won't shut off because of a faulty control switch, relay, or park switch. Less common causes include issues with the wiper motor, control module, or problems with the wiring. 
Common issues

• Faulty control switch: The switch on the steering column that you use to control the wipers may be worn out or have stuck contacts, preventing it from telling the system to turn off. 
• Stuck relay: A relay acts as an electronic switch. If a faulty or stuck relay is continuously sending power to the motor, the wipers will not turn off. 
• Defective park switch: The park switch is part of the wiper motor assembly and is responsible for returning the wipers to their resting "park" position when turned off. A failure here can cause them to keep running. 

Other potential causes

• Wiring problems: A short or a bad connection in the wiring can provide a constant power supply to the wiper motor, even when the switch is in the "off" position. 
• Control module failure: Many modern vehicles use a body control module or a dedicated intermittent wiper module to regulate wiper speed and timing. A failure in this electronic module could cause continuous operation. 
• Wiper motor damage: While less common for this specific symptom, a damaged wiper motor could also be the cause. 

What you can do

• Temporarily disconnect power: As a temporary fix, you can pull the fuse for the windshield wipers to stop them from running. 
• Consult a professional: For a permanent fix, a mechanic can properly diagnose the problem. They will likely test the switch, relay, and motor assembly to pinpoint the exact failure, say CarParts.com and JustAnswer. 

How to disconnect wipers?

If you've got the classic J-Hook connection, the removal process is as straightforward as can be: slide the blade down toward the base of the arm, and it'll easily unhook. Other attachment mechanisms have a tab or button that you'll need to lift or push to release the blade from the arm.

How to disable automatic rain sensing wipers?

To turn off automatic windshield wipers, move the wiper stalk to the "off" position, which is often the "O" setting or a position all the way at the top. Some vehicles also allow you to disable the feature through the vehicle's infotainment system settings menu. 
Method 1: Use the wiper stalk 

• Find the wiper control stalk on your steering wheel's right side. 
• Move the stalk to the "O" or "Off" position. This is typically the uppermost or a position all the way at the top. 
• In some cars, one click up from the "auto" setting turns them off completely. 
• This is the recommended method, especially before going through an automatic car wash. 

Method 2: Use the vehicle's settings menu 

• Navigate to the "Settings" menu on your vehicle's infotainment or display screen. 
• Look for "Wipers," "Driving Assistance," or a similar category. 
• Select "Rain Sensing" or "Auto Wipers" to toggle the feature off. 

This video shows how to turn off automatic wipers using the wiper stalk and the vehicle's settings menu: 40sLincolnYouTube · Jan 10, 2018

How to fully turn off windshield wipers?

Turn the windshield wipers off by returning the dial or lever to the “off” position. If you have a control stalk with a dial, move the dial back to its starting position. In most cases, you'll rotate the dial away from you.