Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Wiper Motor

Common symptoms include wiper blades that move slower than programmed, only have one speed, do not move at all, and do not park in the correct position.

If you can't see the road, it's nearly impossible to drive safely. Windshield wipers are specifically designed to keep rain, snow, mud and other debris off your windshield. Each windshield wiper system is unique to each vehicle, manufactured for maximum efficiency and in many cases to enhance the vehicle's appearance. If wiper blades are the arms and legs of your car's windshield wiper system, the wiper motor will certainly be its heart.

The windshield wipers are controlled by the windshield's electric motor to move back and forth across the windshield. When you activate the windshield switch on the turn signal or other control lever near the steering wheel, it sends a signal to the engine and turns on the wipers at different speeds and durations. When the wiper blades do not move after the switch is turned on, this is often caused by a defective wiper motor.

While it's rare to have a problem with your windshield wiper motor, there are a few warning signs that will alert you that the wiper motor is damaged or needs to be replaced.

1. Wiper blades moving slower than programmed

Modern cars, trucks and SUVs are equipped with programmable wiper blades that can operate at different speeds and delays. If you activate the wiper switch to high speed or high speed and the wiper blades move slower than they should, it could be caused by a problem with the wiper motor. Sometimes the mechanical components inside an engine become clogged with debris, dirt, or other particles. If this happens, it may affect the speed of the motor. If you're experiencing this issue with your wiper blades, it's a good idea to see your local ASE certified mechanic as soon as possible so they can check the wiper motor and other components that may be causing this issue.

2. Wiper blades have only one speed.

On the other side of the equation, if you activate the wiper switch and try to change the speed or settings, but the wipers move the same way all the time, it could also be a problem with the wiper motor. The wiper motor receives a signal from the wiper module, so the problem may be in the module. When you notice this symptom, before deciding to replace the wiper motor, make sure you work with your local ASE certified mechanic so they can determine if the problem is with the motor or module. You will save a lot of money, time and problems if you go to a mechanic first.

3. Wiper blades do not move

If you've turned on the wiper switch and the blades don't move at all or you can't hear the motor running, it's highly likely that the motor is damaged or there is an electrical problem. Sometimes this can be caused by a blown fuse that controls the wiper motor. However, the fuse will only blow if an electrical power overload occurs in that particular circuit. Either way, there is a more serious problem that should prompt you to see a mechanic to diagnose the cause of the electrical problem and fix it so it doesn't damage other components of your vehicle.

4. Wiper blades do not park in correct position.

When you turn off the wiper blades, they should move to the "park" position. This usually means the wiper blades will return to the bottom of the windshield and lock into place. This is not always the case, so you should check your owner's manual to make sure your car, truck, or SUV has this option. However, if you turn off the wiper blades and the blades stay in the same position on the windshield, blocking your view, this is usually an engine problem and will often result in the windshield washer motor needing to be replaced.

The wiper motor is usually beyond repair. Due to the complexity of the device, most wiper motors are being replaced by ASE certified mechanics. A new wiper motor can last a very long time and with regular maintenance you should never have a problem with your wiper blades. If you notice any of the warning signs above, contact your local ASE Certified Mechanic so they can diagnose the exact mechanical problem and fix it as soon as possible.