Five Symptoms of a Faulty Windscreen Wiper Motor
Most
people will never see the windscreen wiper motor because it is frequently
concealed behind the firewall of the car. Here's how to identify a bad
windscreen wiper motor.
The
windscreen wipers play a crucial role in ensuring the greatest possible on-road
visibility. The majority of people don't give the windscreen wiper motor much
thought, despite the fact that it's crucial to replace the blades frequently to
keep the system in perfect working order.
When
the wipers quit operating properly, everything is different. Check MOT
history to see if the wipers were the reason a previous MOT test failed. We
go over the warning signs of a failing windshield wiper motor. Let's start by looking
at the signs.
Slow-moving
wipers are the most typical sign of a faulty windscreen wiper motor. Your
windscreen wiper motor is probably at blame if your wipers only operate at one
speed or cease functioning altogether. If so, check MOT status for
your car to establish the renewal date and have the defective windscreen
wiper motor fixed to prevent failing your next MOT test.
Most Typical Signs Of a Failing Windshield Wiper Motor
Although
not all indications, these are the most typical ones. The following is a more
thorough list of the most typical signs of a failing windshield wiper motor:
1. Wiper Blades Begin to Move More Slowly
Modern cars come with wiper blades that can work at different
rates. You can pick the delay and pace that work best for you. Slower-moving
blades, though, are an indication that something is awry. If you choose the
quickest speed and the blades seem to be operating at the lowest setting, your
motor may be defective. The same symptom, though, can also be brought on by
pollutants or particles that have entered the system. Minor concerns might be
resolved through visual inspection or at worst case you may need to complete a
windscreen wiper motor replacement.
2. Completely Stopped Moving Wiper Blades
The motor may also be to blame if you switch on the wipers, and
nothing happens. You may hear the motor running if you listen carefully. There
may be an electrical issue with the windscreen wiper motor, or it may be
broken, which would prevent it from operating at all. Though a blown fuse is a
potential starting point because this issue could also be brought on by one. An
additional electrical issue can be present if the fuse has burned out. Other
parts can start to fail if the problem is not fixed. As previously noted, run a MOT history check online to discover if a prior MOT test was unsuccessful
owing to the windscreen wipers not functioning.
3. Wiper Blades Only Move at One Pace
You might also experience issues as you experiment with the
different settings, but the wipers always move at the same speed. The
windshield wiper motor frequently experiences issues like this, however the
wiper module may also be to blame. Because the module provides instructions to
the motor, its failure may appear to be a problem with the wiper motor.
According to the MOT history checker, worn-out wiper blades are a
frequent cause of MOT test failure.
4. Wiper Blades Fail to Stay in the Proper Position
After being switched off, wiper blades return to the
"Parked" position. This position, where the wipers are basically held
in place, may be found in the majority of vehicles at the bottom of the
windscreen. The windscreen wiper motor may be malfunctioning if they don't
reset to their original position after being switched off. You may be able to
reset the wiper motor, which is a less expensive option, even if a replacement
may be required.
5. Humming Sounds
If you
notice any of the other issues mentioned above, you should pay particular
attention to the motor. You might hear a slight humming sound. This noise is a
sign that the wiper motor is receiving the necessary power but is unable to
deliver it to the blades. A malfunctioning wiper relay may also be to blame for
this issue.
What a Windscreen Wiper Motor Does
The
windscreen wiper blades are only one component of a larger system; they do not
function independently. The motors for the windscreen wipers are in charge of
powering the blades.
The
blades move smoothly and methodically when the motor is operating as it should.
When the motor is turned on, the wipers move across the windscreen back and
forth continually.
However,
the motor contains connections and linkages that could deteriorate with time.
Performance problems may result from any motor component failure, no matter how
minor. When a problem arises, replacing individual motor parts is not
practical; instead, replacing the complete motor is simpler.
Location of the Windscreen Wiper Motor
On
the firewall of the car is where you'll find the windscreen wiper motor. It is
situated between the car's engine and the driver compartment. The location for
your make and model can be found in your service manual if you can't find it.
Due
to its accessibility, replacing the windscreen wiper motor is a straightforward
task.