Windshield Wiper Repair and Replacement: Expert Solutions from Instant Car Fix

Windshield Wiper Troubleshooting Guide

Windshield wipers are a crucial safety element in your vehicle, ensuring optimal visibility in rainy, snowy, or challenging weather conditions. Yet, like any mechanical part, they can malfunction, putting you at risk in hazardous driving situations. Recognizing the typical problems that can lead to windshield wipers failing is essential for swift repairs and upholding road safety standards.

Common Issues and Diagnostics

Below are some of the common issues with the wipers not working:

Wiper Switch or Motor Failure

The proper functioning of windshield wipers relies on the wiper switch and motor. A failure in either component can render your wipers inoperable. To troubleshoot the problem:

1. Listen for a humming noise from the motor when activating the wipers. The absence of sound often indicates a malfunctioning motor.
2. Inspect the fuse linked to the wiper motor. A blown fuse could be the cause of wiper failure.
3. Use a multimeter to test for electrical current at the motor. If there's no power, it could indicate a switch issue or a wiring break.

Windshield Wiper Relay Issues

A malfunctioning relay is potential cause for wiper failure. The relay is responsible for managing the power flow to the wiper motor. When it malfunctions, power transmission to the motor is disrupted, leading to wiper malfunction. You may observe intermittent wiper operation before they completely cease functioning, often signaling a failing relay. Thankfully, replacing the relay is a relatively simple and cost-effective solution to restore proper wiper function.

Sudden Wiper Failure

If your windshield wipers suddenly cease functioning, the issue could stem from an overloaded motor, particularly common when trying to clear heavy snow or debris from the windshield. Excessive strain on the motor can result in a blown fuse or cause it to overheat, ultimately leading to a complete failure. It's crucial to avoid overloading the wiper motor to prevent these issues and ensure continued functionality.

One Wiper Stopped Working

When one of your windshield wipers stops working while the other remains operational, it could indicate a problem with the wiper linkage. This linkage serves to connect the wiper arms to the motor. With wear and tear over time, the linkage may become loose or even break, resulting in wiper malfunction. In such cases, replacing the worn or broken linkage is typically necessary to restore proper wiper functionality.

Wiper Motor Configuration

Many vehicles are equipped with a single motor that drives both windshield wipers simultaneously. This motor is responsible for moving the wiper linkage, which then translates this motion into movement for both wiper arms across the windshield. However, in certain vehicles with larger windshields, such as commercial trucks or buses, separate motors may be installed for each wiper arm to ensure adequate coverage and efficient operation.

How Instant Car Fix Can Help

If you're experiencing issues with your windshield wipers and need professional assistance, Instant Car Fix offers convenient, reliable service. Our team of expert technicians can quickly diagnose and address any issues, from simple repairs like replacing wiper blades or fuses to more complex fixes involving the motor or electrical system. With Instant Car Fix, you're assured of getting back on the road safely, whatever the weather.

Conclusion

Windshield wipers play a vital role in ensuring driving safety by maintaining clear visibility, especially during adverse weather conditions. Any malfunction in the wiper system can greatly impair visibility and compromise driving safety. By familiarizing yourself with the common issues discussed earlier, you can enhance your ability to identify and address problems promptly. However, if you're unsure or encounter complex issues, it's advisable to seek professional assistance. Professional mechanics, like those at Instant Car Fix, have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair wiper system problems accurately, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe and operational in various weather conditions.

Customer Reviews

Kassim Mulendwe

Verified

I scheduled brake service after my dealer said I would need to do it. I assumed that the rear brakes are what required service. When the technician came he checked the brakes and told me the rear brakes were as good as new. They serviced the front brakes on another appointment. I was very impressed by the honesty and efficiency, with no attempt to up-sell unnecesary work. All at very reasonable rates, especially compared to the dealership. Will definitely use them again.

Constance Solemani

Verified

Alex came out to diagnose issues with my vehicle and was super helpful. I highly recommend this service!

Brian Meyerriecks

Verified

Alex our mechanic was terrific very experienced and knowledgeable.

Dr. Eugene O'Neal

Verified

This was fantastic! I googled for somewhere to get new brakes and rotors and when I first heard about the mobile autoshop, I was hesitant. But the guy came and fixed it and honestly, I'm really not going to go back waiting hours in an autoshop. 5 stars.

Andrew Dayton

Verified

Quick response. Good repair. My car died in the lane. What I saved on not needing a tow more than paid for the repair.

Lori K.

Verified

Wonderful service! They showed up on time, they had the right parts, they fixed the problem, they didn't overcharge. The service technician was very sweet.

James Baker

Verified

I had a great experience with them I made an appointment for Monday at 11 am but they came out on Sunday at 10pm very professional would recommend to anyone

Tasneem Kabir

Verified

I was super skeptical about this at first as it seemed a bit too good to be true - as in, I don’t have to deal with the headache of dropping my car to the garage, wait for hours and not know when the car will be ready? Turns out, using Instant Car Fix really was pain free. Pricing was clear upfront, the mechanic came on time and all occurred while I was at home. Highly recommended and will definitely use again

Sal B

Verified

The tech came on time and diagnosed the issue correctly . I would use them again .

Jim V.

Verified

Arrived at my house on time, did a great job. Saved me the trouble of limping my car to a shop, and did it for far less than other quotes. I would recommend them to anyone needing a repair - .

John Yang

Verified

Replaced brake pads and rotors on my 2013 Chevy Equinox. I am traveling to attend a wedding in Virginia and drove from Chicago. Having car problem in Northern Virginia where I don’t know anyone. RJ was very friendly and helped me fix my car promptly with very reasonable price. Mechanic came to my hotel and changed the brake pads and rotors on my rear wheels. This was very convenient and so easy. Thanks for the help.

Kirk Young

Verified

Great experience. Car was serviced without having to leave home, wait in the lounge; all done while I continue to live, work and do what I need to be doing. Tech was courteous and explained what was being done. Car is “back” in order. Not quite magic, but it might as well be.

Dan Cronk

Verified

This is by far and away the best experience I’ve had with any mechanic. They arrived early, got the job done fast and even explained what they were doing so I could get a better understanding of my vehicle. Not to mention the fact that they were lower in cost than the quotes I received from other companies. The service and convenience just can’t be beat.

Michael Harrington

Verified

Tom was great an very informative! Made quick work while I shopped for groceries.

John Holback

Verified

Alex arrived early and replaced the starter on my parallel parked car. Excellent job. I highly recommend this company.

Jose S.

Verified

Alex came out to diagnose issues with my vehicle and was super helpful. I highly recommend this service!

Matthew D.

Verified

This is a great idea to have a mobile repair service!!! The staff was great and setting it up was super easy. I highly recommend you look into this as a way to

shawn Benton

Verified

I’ve used them twice and in every instance they’ve been awesome. The mechanic has been nothing but professional and always had a solution. No games or gimmicks just problem and solution. Price is straightforward. It works!!! Highly recommended!!!

Hossein Khayami

Verified

The good thing is that you can easily have a chat with them on Yelp and get a quote. Then you can book an appointment online. So everything is really smooth and you know the process, time, and price in advance. The mobile mechanic came to my place and did the job as it should.

Donnell Whitfield

Verified

Good price... Excellent work and finished well before I had expected.... I will be rendering their services again. Great job guys

Ira Weiss

Verified

Repair done quickly and efficiently. Very courteous repairman.

Jim Rozelle

Verified

I was not aware of the ability to have a trained professional mechanic come to our home to repair the brakes on our car. I found InstantCarFix from a Google search and was surprised when they provided a quote that was at least $150.00 less than a local auto repair shop. InstantCarFix arrived in the time they quoted and got right to work replacing the front brakes on my 2011 Toyota Camry. The technician saved me at least $200 by letting me know I did not need to replace some parts at this time. When finished all the squeaks and groans I was having were gone and the brakes were like new.

david fleming

Verified

25,000 mile service for Mini Cooper; very responsive, prompt, well done

faith sindeh

Verified

Had a dead battery, and had a 4 hour drive the next morning. They came out to me last minute and was done in less than an hour. Great service, very friendly, would 1000%! Prices are great saved a couple hundreds!

Leslie Rubin

Verified

The tech who came out to my home to diagnose the problem with my Dodge Roadtrek RV was amazing. I had this 19 foot behemoth on the lawn where the gas co. needed access, and I could not get it to move. I hesitated to tow it, so found "Instant Car Fix" to come to my home. I wish I could recall the tech's name (it was 03/29/24), because he was such a delight to have working on the van. He diagnosed the problem and made me feel completely comfortable that he knew exactly what the issue was. Definitely putting "Instant Car Fix" in my phone for the future, and YES, I would !00% recommend!!

Lori Krane

Verified

What a great find! My brakes went bad on vacation in Maryland and I was so happy to find Instant Car Fix. They came over the next morning, as promised, and fixed the problem in under an hour. Thank you!!

Dan S.

Verified

My passenger side rearview mirror was broken and needed replacing. I submitted a request o several businesses on Yelp and Instant Car Fix got back to me the quickest. The fact that they come to your location makes things incredibly easy. All we had to do was wait for the part to ship and the repairs took less than 30 minutes. Great company!

Jose S.

Verified

Used this company to replace the rear brake shoes of my 2014 Nissan, Sentra. They answered all my questions and were very responsive. They were very honest, efficient and showed me the work needed for the vehicle. They did not attempt to sell unnecessary work. They have very reasonable rates and will definitely use them again. I highly recommend!

Holly Adams

Verified

They responded promptly to my inquiry, showed up within requested time frame, were clear about pricing and quotes and fixed the issue quickly. I didn't even have to take off work, they did everything right in the parking lot and were respectful of my business. They even showed me how to easily replace fluids in my car.

LaVern Kidd

Verified

Best mobile car mechanic I've used or heard of. You can schedule an appt. as soon as you need to. Great service. Mike the mechanic they sent was patient and awesome.