Wiper and Washer Systems: Testing and Inspection

If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper linkage module. If the washer pump/motor operates, but no washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if the wipers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass, clean and inspect the wiper and washer system components as required. For diagnosis and testing of the multi-function switch. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin-out information and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.

The hard wired circuits and components of the wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and tested using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. However, conventional diagnostic methods may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the intermittent wipe logic circuitry contained within the fuse block underneath the steering column. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the intermittent wipe logic circuitry requires the use of a DRBIII(R) scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG, PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

INSPECTION

WIPER SYSTEM
The wiper blades and wiper arms should be inspected periodically, not just when wiper performance problems are experienced. This inspection should include the following points:
1. Inspect the wiper arms for any indications of damage, or contamination. If the wiper arms are contaminated with any foreign material, clean them as required. If a wiper arm is damaged or corrosion is evident, replace the wiper arm with a new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm that is damaged or corroded.
2. Carefully lift the wiper blade off of the glass. Note the action of the wiper arm hinge. The wiper arm should pivot freely at the hinge, but with no lateral looseness evident. If there is any binding evident in the wiper arm hinge, or there is evident lateral play in the wiper arm hinge, replace the wiper arm.

CAUTION: Do not allow the wiper arm to spring back against the glass without the wiper blade in place or the glass may be damaged.

3. Once proper hinge action of the wiper arm is confirmed, check the hinge for proper spring tension. Remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm. Either place a small postal scale between the blade end of the wiper arm and the glass, or carefully lift the blade end of the arm away from the glass using a small fish scale. Compare the scale readings between the right and left wiper arms. Replace a wiper arm if it has comparatively lower spring tension, as evidenced by a lower scale reading.

Wiper Blade Inspection:

4. Inspect the wiper blades and squeegees for any indications of damage, contamination, or rubber deterioration. If the wiper blades or squeegees are contaminated with any foreign material, clean them and the glass as required. After cleaning the wiper blade and the glass, if the wiper blade still fails to clear the glass without smearing, streaking, chattering, hazing, or beading, replace the wiper blade. Also, if a wiper blade is damaged or the squeegee rubber is damaged or deteriorated, replace the wiper blade with a new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper blade that is damaged.

WASHER SYSTEM
The washer system components should be inspected periodically, not just when washer performance problems are experienced. This inspection should include the following points:

1. Check for ice or other foreign material in the washer reservoir. If contaminated, clean and flush the washer system.
2. Inspect the washer plumbing for pinched, leaking, deteriorated, or incorrectly routed hoses and damaged or disconnected hose fittings. Replace damaged or deteriorated hoses and hose fittings. Leaking washer hoses can sometimes be repaired by cutting the hose at the leak and splicing it back together using an in-line connector fitting. Similarly, sections of deteriorated hose can be cut out and replaced by splicing in new sections of hose using in-line connector fittings. Whenever routing a washer hose or a wire harness containing a washer hose, it must be routed away from hot, sharp, or moving parts. Also, sharp bends that might pinch the washer hose must be avoided.