How do I know if my windshield wiper fuse is blown?
If your windshield wipers are not working, it's possible that the fuse powering them has blown. Identifying a blown fuse is a simple process that can help you quickly restore your windshield wipers and ensure safe driving visibility. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to determine if your windshield wiper fuse is the culprit.
Symptoms of a Blown Windshield Wiper Fuse
The most obvious sign of a blown windshield wiper fuse is that the wipers will not turn on when you activate the wiper switch. Other symptoms may include:
- Wipers not moving at all, even when the wiper switch is turned on
- Wipers moving erratically or intermittently
- Wipers not responding to different speed settings
If you notice any of these issues, it's a good indication that the windshield wiper fuse may need to be replaced.
Locating the Windshield Wiper Fuse
The location of the windshield wiper fuse can vary depending on your vehicle make and model. Here are some common places to check:
- The fuse box under the dashboard
- The fuse box in the engine compartment
- The fuse box near the battery
Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or look for a fuse diagram on the inside of the fuse box cover to identify the specific fuse for the windshield wipers.
Inspecting and Replacing the Fuse
Once you've located the windshield wiper fuse, visually inspect it to see if it's blown. A blown fuse will typically have a broken or melted metal strip inside the fuse casing. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage rating, which is usually between 10-30 amps.
After replacing the fuse, turn on the windshield wipers to ensure they are working properly. If the new fuse blows immediately, there may be an underlying electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional mechanic.
How do I know if my wiper switch or motor is bad?
Failed wiper motor
Like all electrical components, it could unexpectedly quit or short out, leaving you with wipers that don't work. If the motor has completely failed, you won't hear any sounds when you engage the wiper switch. If the motor hasn't completely gone out, you'll hear the motor struggling to work.
Why would windshield wipers stop working?
Windshield wipers can stop working due to a blown fuse, a failed motor, or mechanical problems like stripped pivot nuts or a broken linkage. Other causes include ice or snow buildup, which can overload the system, or issues with the wiper control switch or wiring.
This video demonstrates how to diagnose a broken windshield wiper linkage: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jun 5, 2021
Electrical problems
- Blown fuse: This is the most common and easiest fix. A power surge from overworking the wipers (e.g., in heavy snow) can blow the fuse, which can be replaced with a new one of the correct amperage.
- Failed wiper motor: The motor can fail due to age, a short circuit, or being overworked.
- Wiring issues: A loose or broken wire, or a bad connection anywhere in the circuit, can stop the system from working.
- Faulty control switch or relay: The switch on your dashboard or a relay in the system can fail and prevent the wipers from getting the signal to move.
Mechanical problems
- Stripped pivot nuts: The nut that connects the wiper arm to the pivot can loosen over time. The splines that connect them can also strip, causing the arm to slip.
- Broken or seized linkage: The linkage connects the motor to the wiper arms. If it breaks or seizes up, the arms will not move correctly.
This video shows how to fix slow or seized windshield wipers: 50sError Code GuyYouTube · Jul 20, 2018
Environmental and other issues
- Ice and snow: Heavy ice or snow can jam the wiper arms, preventing them from moving and potentially blowing the fuse or damaging the motor from the strain.
- Torn or damaged wiper blades: While this usually causes poor performance like streaking, extremely damaged blades can sometimes get caught and cause a stall.
You can watch this video to learn how to clean a clogged windshield washer spray nozzle: 45sRJ The Bike GuyYouTube · Apr 2, 2013
How do you know if you have a bad wiper fuse?
Burned out fuse
When the wiper motor blows a fuse, it prevents power from getting to the wiper system, resulting in the wipers not working. If a blown fuse is the cause of your issues, the wipers won't move and you won't hear anything when you turn the wiper switch on.
How much does it cost to replace a wiper fuse?
A wiper fuse replacement costs about $10 to $15 if you do it yourself, which includes the fuse ($1-$5) and a small fee for labor or tools. A professional mechanic will likely charge anywhere from $100 to $175 for labor, plus the part cost, which can make the total repair between $110 and $200 or more depending on your car's make and model.
DIY vs. professional replacement
This video demonstrates how to replace a windshield wiper fuse: 39s2CarProsYouTube · Mar 28, 2016
- DIY (Do It Yourself): This is the cheapest option, costing about $10 to $15 total.
- Parts: The fuse itself costs $1 to $5, but you might buy an assortment pack for about $10. You may also need a fuse puller tool for a few dollars.
- Labor: Free, as you'll be doing the work yourself.
- Professional Mechanic: This is more expensive due to labor costs, which typically range from $75 to $130 per hour.
- Parts: Cost of the fuse itself.
- Labor: This can add $100 to $175 in labor expenses to diagnose the issue and replace the fuse, depending on local labor rates. A mechanic can also help determine if the fuse blew for a reason, such as a faulty motor, which would require a more expensive fix.
What to consider
- DIY is a good first step: If your wipers stop working, check and replace the fuse first as it's a cheap and easy fix.
- Check the owner's manual: Your car's owner's manual will have the fuse diagram and location.
- Get the right fuse: Make sure the new fuse has the same amperage rating as the old one.
- Consider a professional if the problem continues: If the new fuse blows immediately, there's a more significant problem like a faulty motor, and you should have a professional diagnose and fix it.
