Windscreen Wipers Not Working
Wipers that do not move usually have a blown fuse, a failed motor, a loose linkage nut or a faulty switch or relay; wipers that move but do not park can have a worn motor park switch.
High risk
Do not drive in rain or snow without working wipers. Fix it promptly.
Short answer · Why are my wipers not working?
The wiper motor drives a linkage that moves both arms. If the fuse blows, nothing moves. If the motor runs but the arms do not move, the linkage or the nut on the motor spindle has come loose. Heavy snow or ice can overload the system. A wiper switch or relay fault can stop some speeds only.
Safe checks you can do
- Check the fuseA blown fuse is common after frozen wipers.
- Listen for the motorMotor running without arm movement: linkage.
- Try all speedsOnly some speeds failing points to the switch or relay.
Questions that narrow it down
- Were the wipers frozen?Fuse or linkage damage.
- Does one arm move but not the other?Linkage or arm nut.
- Do they stop in the wrong place?Park switch.
Possible causes
Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.
- Blown fuseOften after overload.
- Failed wiper motorNo movement or sound.
- Loose or broken linkageMotor runs, arms do not.
- Faulty switch or relaySome speeds fail.
- Rain sensor faultAutomatic mode fails.
Questions about Windscreen Wipers Not Working
Can frozen wipers cause damage?
Yes. Free them before switching on.
What if it starts raining?
Stop safely; driving without wipers in rain is dangerous.