Wiper and Washer Systems: Description and Operation

WIPER/WASHERS
Front Wiper/washer System
The windshield wipers can be operated with the windshield wiper switch when the ignition switch is in the RUN or ACCESSORY positions. The windshield wiper system is protected by a 30 amp fuse (9)located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC) part of the Integrated Power Module (IPM) in the engine compartment. The wiper/washer switch is integral to the multi-function switch. It is a resistive MUX switch that sends inputs to the BCM to operate the wiper/washer system.

The windshield washer circuit is protected by a 9 amp PTC located in the Junction Block. The wiper motor has permanent magnetic fields. The speeds are determined by current flow to the appropriate set of brushes inside the motor. The current flow is controlled by the multi-function switch stalk mounted wiper switch, high speed/low speed relays located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC) part of the Integrated Power Module (IPM) in the engine compartment. The speed sensitive intermittent wiper is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM). The intermittent mode, with the vehicle traveling greater than 10.4 mph, has a range of 0.5 to 18 seconds. With the vehicle traveling less than 10.4 mph, and the time delay is not adjusted, time delay doubles to a range of 1 to 36 seconds. The wiper arms will park at the base of the windshield just above the cowl cover after the wiper switch is turned OFF.

The windshield wiper motor and linkage is located in an integral wiper unit at the rear of the engine compartment. The wiper unit must be removed to gain access to the wiper motor.

Rear Wiper/washer System
The rear windshield wiper and washers can be operated when the ignition switch is in the RUN or ACCESSORY positions.

When continuous rear wiper operation is required, the Body Control Module (BCM) will provide ignition ON voltage to the rear wiper motor. When the wiper switch is turned OFF; the BCM provides circuit ground to operate the motor until the wipe cycle is complete and the wiper arm returns to the base of the rear window.

When intermittent rear wiper mode is selected, the wiper motor will cycle every 7 seconds. The intermittent delay time is also adjusted based upon vehicle speed. With the vehicle traveling greater at 50 mph, the cycle changes to every 5 seconds. DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

Fig.10 HVAC Control Panel:

REAR WIPER/WASHER SWITCH
The rear window wiper/washer switches are located on the center bezel with the hazard and heated seat switches. They are not serviceable seperately from the hazard and heated seat switches. If defective, the entire switch assembly must be replaced.

Refer to the vehicle Owner's Manual for operating instructions for the rear window wiper and washer.