• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Autos Square

Auto Parts and Accessories Review

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Blog
    • Auto Parts and Accessories
    • Tools
    • Chemicals
    • Exterior and Interior
    • Motorcycles
  • Contact

Why are My Windshield Wipers Stuck On?

Auto Parts and Accessories · November 9, 2022

Windshield wipers are among the significant accessories in a car that enhance safety. They’re designed to move across the windscreen to take out dust, moisture, or films of ice to give a driver clear vision while driving. You can imagine how tough it would be driving on a rainy morning without windshield wipers. 

However, windshield wipers are prone to malfunction like other car parts. A common issue is where they appear stuck in one position and won’t return to their resting position. For this reason, let’s explore how the wiper system works, what causes it to get stuck and possible solutions to such an issue in your car. 

Why are My Windshield Wipers Stuck On

How Does the Wiper System Work? 

A windshield wiper comprises several parts, i.e., the linkage assembly, arm, blade, electronic wiper motor, wiper switch, and washer fluid tank.

The flip wiper switch (located in either the turn signal indicator or a separate indicator level near the steering wheel) activates the electric motor. Then the motor moves and spins the linkage assembly to convert the motor’s rotational movement into a “side by side” movement. As a result, the generated force moves the arms side by side over the windshield. Using even pressure from the arm, the wiper blades clean any dust or moisture on the windshield. 

What Causes Windshield Wipers Not Return to Rest Position? 

What Causes Windshield Wipers Not Return to Rest Position

There are several reasons why your wipers could be stuck. They include.

Dirt or obstructions on the windshield 

While the primary function of windshield wipers is to clean the windshield, it’s not designed to clear big chunks of dirt, ice, leaves or snow, etc. Windshield wipers’ capability has its limits; thus, such obstructions may easily prevent it from swiping side to side. Consequently, it gets stuck and could also easily damage your wipers. 

Worn-out or torn wiper blades 

Wiper blades are often made from rubber or silicone composites, which wear out the more they rub against the windshield. They also tend to dry out as they age. Now, when the wiper blades are entirely worn out, they get stuck in one position on the windshield. 

Incorrectly installed wiper arms 

Incorrectly installed wiper arms 

It’s possible and easy to install the wiper incorrectly after repairing or replacing other wiper system components. Misalignment is also a common problem that causes windshield wipers to get stuck.

A faulty wiper transmission 

A wiper transmission connects the windshield wiper motor to the windshield wiper arm. Therefore, if this transmission is faulty or has stopped working, the wiper arm will automatically not work, thus causing the arm to stick in one position. This issue is often experienced if the linkage is worn out.

A weak or lousy wiper motor 

A wiper motor powers windshield wipers by activating the linkage that moves the wiper arms back and forth; it helps in the summation of the wiper system. Therefore, having a malfunctioning motor means the wipers will barely work. 

A burnt windshield wiper fuse 

A burnt windshield wiper fuse

If your wiper motor is overloaded with power, it automatically blows a fuse. Consequently, the wiper system stops working 

How to Fix Windshield Wipers not returning to Rest Position 

What do I do if my wipers stop working? Here is how to fix it: 

Clean the windshield 

Suppose you have excess dust or a thick coat of snow, or a buildup of debris on the windshield; you should first clean it before switching on your wipers. It prevents jamming the wiper arms, bent wiper blades, or stoppage by the dirt on the windshield. 

You may also consider installing sturdier winter wipers and blades if you live in areas with heavy snowfall. 

Replace worn-out or damaged wiper blades 

The best solution to worn-out wiper blades is to replace them as soon you note the issues. It’s not a costly fix, especially if you can do it yourself. 

Reset your wipers to the park position 

Reset your wipers to the park position

Resetting your windshield wipers to park position helps address problems related to wiper misalignment. 

It entails removing the wiper arms at the point of attachment together with the transmission. Then you reposition each wiper to the desired position when the wiper motor is at rest. 

Replace a damaged wiper transmission and motor 

Do you want your wipers to attain the correct park position? Are the wipers on your windshield extremely slow? Replacing the damaged wiper motor and transmission is a great way to bring your windshield wipers back to life. 

Replace burnt fuses 

If you notice your windshield fuses have breaks in the filament or show fogs in the tube (for glass fuse), those are signs of a blown fuse. Consider doing a replacement with a fuse of the same amperage. 

Take care of your windshield wipers 

You should always observe maintenance practices to ensure your wipers are always in sound condition. It entails: 

  • Replacing the wiper blades at least once or twice a year
  • Avoid running wiper blades on a dry windshield  
  • Prevent your wipers blades from long hours of direct sunlight 
  • Keep your windshield surface always clean 

Bottom Line 

The windshield wiper is a “humble part” of your car that you’re likely to forget quite easily. However, it’s of much significance in enhancing safety while driving. In case of a sudden downpour, the windshield wipers help you drive safely by clearing your windshield and enhancing visibility as you drive. 

Therefore, replace faulty parts of your wiper system and always clean the windshield before using the wipers. It will help you ensure the wipers are working all the time. 

Filed Under: Auto Parts and Accessories

Mihailo Savic

First and foremost, I am a mechanical engineer. I graduated from the University of Waterloo in 2018 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
I have also gained experience in various industries such as aerospace, construction, oil & gas, etc, through my work with different companies.
Also working in the field of pressure equipment (vessels, pipelines and steam generators), such as inspection and testing.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest posts delivered right to your inbox

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • Ignition Coil vs Spark Plug: What Are The Differences Between Them?
  • Will Fuel Injector Cleaner Help Misfire?
  • Wipers Going Wrong Way − Why and How to Fix?
  • What Causes a Dropped Valve Seat? The Symptoms?
  • What Causes Negative Crankcase Pressure? − Good or Bad?

Footer

Sitemap

  • Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • About Us
  • Contact

Newsletter

Get the latest news, events and announcements straight to your inbox.

Categories

  • Auto Parts and Accessories
  • Blog
  • Chemicals
  • Exterior and Interior
  • Tools
  • Uncategorized

Disclaimer

Autos Square is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon (.com, .co.uk, .ca etc) and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program.

Copyright © 2023 · Autos Square All rights reserved