What is the Windshield Wiper Switch all about?

The windshield wiper switch is located inside your car and is attached to the steering column. When the driver flips the wiper control, the wiper motor turns on/off the wipers. If the wiper blades are not stopping, it may be the motor itself and not the switch or it may be the “park” switch. Your mechanic should verify the problem before replacing the switch.

Keep in mind:

• If the windshield wipers do not work, it may be the windshield wiper motor that is malfunctioning, and not the switch.
• When the windshield wiper switch is replaced, the entire windshield wiper system should be inspected.

How it's done:

• Inspect the switch, fuses, and wirings.
• Remove and replace the switch if faulty.
• Operate the windshield wipers and verify proper speed and park operations.

Our recommendation:

Windshield wiper systems are not usually a part of routine maintenance and servicing. Windshield wiper switches will usually last a very long time, so they don’t need much preventative action. If any part of your windshield wiper system is being replaced or repaired, however, you should have your windshield wiper switch inspected. Otherwise, if your windshield wipers ever stop working, schedule an inspection.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Windshield Wiper Switch?

• Windshield wiper motor does not go on or off.
• Wipers keep running.
• Not able to control or select proper speed settings.

How important is this service?

When you want to use your windshield wipers, you pull the windshield wiper switch, which is located on your steering column. This switch triggers the windshield wiper motor, which runs the windshield wiper blade across your windshield, eliminating the water and debris that is clouding your visibility. If your windshield wiper switch breaks, you won’t be able to activate your windshield wipers. This means that your windshield will have no way of being wiped clean in adverse weather conditions, and your visibility may be dangerously low.