If your back windshield wiper is driving you crazy, don’t despair. There are a few simple steps you can take to turn it off. First, check the wiper switch. It’s usually located on the dashboard or steering column. If the switch is in the “on” position, simply move it to the “off” position. If that doesn’t work, you may need to check the fuse box. The fuse for the back windshield wiper is usually located in the fuse box under the hood. If the fuse is blown, you’ll need to replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
If you’ve checked the wiper switch and the fuse and the back windshield wiper is still running, there may be a problem with the wiper motor. The wiper motor is located under the back windshield. To access the wiper motor, you’ll need to remove the plastic panel that covers the back windshield. Once you’ve accessed the wiper motor, you can check the electrical connections. If the connections are loose, you can try tightening them. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the wiper motor.
Replacing the wiper motor is a relatively simple job. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your car, you should take it to a mechanic. A mechanic can quickly and easily replace the wiper motor for you.
Locating the Windshield Wiper Controls
Identifying the controls for your windshield wipers is crucial before you can turn them off. These controls are typically located on a stalk or lever situated to the right or left of the steering wheel.
For Stalk-Mounted Controls: Look for a stalk extending from the steering column. This stalk usually has a knob or switch at its end. The knob or switch controls the wiper speed and intermittent settings, while pushing the stalk down activates the wipers.
For Lever-Mounted Controls: Locate a lever near the steering wheel. This lever typically has several positions, including “Off,” “Low,” “High,” and “Intermittent.” Moving the lever to the “Off” position deactivates the wipers.
The specific location and design of the wiper controls may vary depending on your vehicle make and model. If you have trouble finding the controls, refer to your owner’s manual for assistance.
Identifying the Windshield Wiper Controls Table
| Control Type | Location | Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Stalk-Mounted | Steering column stalk | Knob or switch for speed and intermittent settings, push down for activation |
| Lever-Mounted | Lever near steering wheel | Positions for “Off,” “Low,” “High,” and “Intermittent” |
Identifying the Manual Switch
For regular vehicles, you can effortlessly disable the rear wiper by locating and operating the wiper stalk. This stalk is typically situated on the right-hand side of the steering column and features a lever that controls the wiper’s function. To switch off the rear wiper, simply move the lever to the “off” position. Additionally, some vehicles may have a dedicated button or switch for the rear wiper, which can typically be found on the dashboard or center console. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on disabling the rear wiper using the manual switch.
Additional Details:
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Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Locate the wiper stalk on the right-hand side of the steering column.
- Move the lever towards the "off" position.
- The rear wiper will automatically stop operating.
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Identifying the Manual Switch:
- The manual switch is typically a lever or button located on the wiper stalk or dashboard.
- Look for symbols or labels that indicate the rear wiper function.
- Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the exact location and operation of the manual switch.
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Common Locations for Manual Switch:
- Wiper stalk
- Dashboard
- Center console
- Steering wheel (for some newer vehicles)
| Vehicle Type | Manual Switch Location |
|---|---|
| Regular Vehicles | Wiper stalk or dashboard |
| Luxury or High-Performance Vehicles | Steering wheel or center console |
Deactivating the Rear Windshield Wiper
If you find yourself needing to deactivate your rear windshield wiper, follow these simple steps:
1. Locate the Wiper Control Lever
This lever is typically positioned on the right side of the steering column. It features a variety of markings, including symbols for the front and rear wipers, as well as different speed settings.
2. Move the Lever to the Off Position
Once you have located the wiper control lever, move it to the off position. This will typically be indicated by a circle with a line through it. Make sure the lever is pushed all the way down to ensure the wiper is completely deactivated.
3. Disconnecting the Wiper Motor
In some cases, you may need to disconnect the wiper motor to completely deactivate the rear windshield wiper. To do this, you will need to access the wiper motor, which is usually located beneath the rear wiper arm. Once you have located the motor, disconnect the electrical connector. This will prevent the motor from receiving power and will stop the wiper from operating.
| Wiper Motor Location | Disconnect Method |
|---|---|
| Beneath the rear wiper arm | Unplug the electrical connector |
| Inside the rear hatch | Locate the motor and unplug the wires |
| Under the rear seat | Follow the wiper linkage to locate the motor and disconnect the wiring |
Checking for Automatic Sensing
Many modern vehicles are equipped with automatic sensing wipers that turn on and off based on the amount of rain or moisture detected on the windshield. If your vehicle has this feature, you may not need to manually turn off the rear windshield wiper.
To check for automatic sensing, follow these steps:
- Locate the windshield wiper control stalk on the steering column.
- Move the stalk to the “Auto” position (if available).
- Verify that the rear windshield wiper turns on and off automatically when you spray water on the windshield.
- If the rear windshield wiper does not turn on automatically, proceed to the next section to manually turn it off.
**Note:** Some vehicles may have a separate sensor for the rear windshield. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
| Vehicle Make/Model | Automatic Rear Wiper Sensing |
|---|---|
| Ford Focus | Available |
| Toyota Camry | Available |
| Honda Civic | Not Available |
Disabling Windshield Wipers through the Vehicle Settings
The vehicle’s settings provide a convenient way to disable the back windshield wiper. Follow these steps to turn it off:
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Access the Settings Menu: Locate the settings button or menu on your vehicle’s dashboard or infotainment system.
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Navigate to Vehicle Settings: Once in the settings menu, look for a section titled "Vehicle," "Car," or a similar category.
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Find Wiper Controls: Within the vehicle settings, search for a submenu related to windshield wipers or wiper controls.
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Locate the Back Wiper Setting: Look for an option that specifically controls the back windshield wiper. It may be labeled as "Rear Windshield Wiper" or "Back Wiper."
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Disable the Back Wiper: Once you’ve found the back wiper setting, toggle the switch or button to the "Off" position. This will immediately disable the wiper.
| Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| On | Wiper operates continuously when rear windshield is wet. |
| Off | Wiper disabled. |
Note: If you later wish to enable the back windshield wiper, simply return to the vehicle settings and toggle the switch or button to the “On” position.
Troubleshooting the Rear Windshield Wiper Switch
If your rear windshield wiper is not working, the switch may be the culprit. Here are some steps to troubleshoot the switch:
1. Check the switch for any visible damage. If the switch is cracked or broken, it will need to be replaced.
2. If the switch looks undamaged, try cleaning it with a contact cleaner. Disconnect the battery before cleaning the switch, and be sure to allow the cleaner to dry completely before reconnecting the battery.
3. If cleaning the switch does not solve the problem, you may need to test the switch with a voltmeter. To do this, set the voltmeter to the ohms setting and connect the probes to the switch terminals.
4. If the switch is working properly, the voltmeter will read 0 ohms when the switch is turned on and infinite ohms when the switch is turned off.
5. If the switch is not working properly, you will need to replace it. To do this, disconnect the battery and remove the old switch. Then, connect the new switch and reconnect the battery.
6. If you have tried all of the above steps and the rear windshield wiper is still not working, there may be a problem with the wiper motor or the wiring. In this case, you will need to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wiper does not turn on | Faulty switch | Replace switch |
| Wiper turns on but does not move | Faulty motor | Replace motor |
| Wiper moves but does not clean windshield | Wiper blade worn or damaged | Replace wiper blade |
Understanding the Function of the Interval Setting
The interval setting allows you to adjust the frequency at which the wiper makes sweeps across the rear window. By selecting a lower interval, the wiper will sweep more frequently, providing better visibility during heavy rain or snow. Alternatively, a higher interval setting will cause the wiper to sweep less frequently, conserving wiper blade wear and fluid consumption.
To find the optimal interval setting, consider the following factors:
- Precipitation Intensity: The heavier the rain or snow, the lower the interval setting should be.
- Visibility: If visibility is poor due to heavy precipitation or dirt, a lower interval setting is recommended.
- Wiper Blade Condition: If the wiper blades are worn or damaged, a higher interval setting may be necessary to prevent streaking or skipping.
Interval Setting Guide
The following table provides a general guide for selecting the appropriate interval setting based on precipitation intensity:
| Precipitation Intensity | Interval Setting |
|---|---|
| Light Rain or Snow | 2 – 3 seconds |
| Moderate Rain or Snow | 1 – 2 seconds |
| Heavy Rain or Snow | < 1 second |
By adjusting the interval setting accordingly, you can optimize the performance of your car’s rear windshield wiper and ensure optimal visibility while driving in inclement weather.
Using the Rain Sensor to Adjust Wiper Frequency
Rain sensors use light to detect the presence of moisture on the windshield. When activated, they automatically adjust the wiper speed based on the amount of rain detected.
How to Activate the Rain Sensor
- Locate the rain sensor on your windshield (usually behind the rearview mirror).
- Check for a small black or silver dot on the glass.
- Turn the wiper switch to the “Auto” or “Rain” position.
How the Rain Sensor Works
The rain sensor emits a beam of light that bounces off the windshield and returns to the sensor. When moisture is present, it scatters the light and reduces the amount of light that returns to the sensor. This decrease in light triggers the wiper system to increase the wiper speed.
Adjusting the Rain Sensor Sensitivity
On some vehicles, you can adjust the sensitivity of the rain sensor to determine the amount of rain required to trigger the wipers. This adjustment is typically made using a dial or rotary knob located on the dashboard.
Benefits of Using the Rain Sensor
- Automatic wiper operation based on actual rainfall
- Reduces the need for manual wiper adjustments
- Improved visibility during heavy rainfall
Troubleshooting Rain Sensor Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wipers do not activate | Rain sensor not activated | Turn on the wiper switch and place it in the “Auto” or “Rain” position |
| Wipers activate too often | Rain sensor is too sensitive | Adjust the rain sensor sensitivity to a lower setting |
| Wipers do not activate enough | Rain sensor is not sensitive enough | Adjust the rain sensor sensitivity to a higher setting |
Verifying the Windshield Wiper Fuse
If the rear windshield wiper is not functioning, it is crucial to ascertain if it is due to a faulty fuse. Here’s how to verify the windshield wiper fuse:
1. Locate the Fuse Box
Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the location of the fuse box. It is typically located under the dashboard, in the engine compartment, or in the trunk.
2. Identify the Wiper Fuse
Once you have located the fuse box, refer to the fuse diagram provided on the cover or in the owner’s manual. This diagram will indicate which fuse is responsible for the rear windshield wiper.
3. Remove the Fuse
Use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to carefully remove the suspected fuse.
4. Inspect the Fuse
Examine the fuse for any visible signs of damage, such as a broken filament or blackening.
5. Replace the Fuse if Necessary
If the fuse appears damaged, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage rating. Use the fuse diagram to identify the correct amperage for the rear windshield wiper fuse.
6. Reinsert the Fuse
Carefully push the new fuse into the fuse socket until it clicks into place.
7. Test the Windshield Wiper
Start the vehicle and activate the rear windshield wiper. If the wiper is now functioning properly, the issue was resolved by replacing the fuse.
8. Check for Other Problems
If replacing the fuse did not solve the problem, there may be other issues with the wiper motor, wiring, or switch. Consider consulting a mechanic for further diagnosis.
Fuse Location Table
| Vehicle Model | Fuse Box Location |
|---|---|
| Honda Civic | Under the dashboard, driver’s side |
| Toyota Camry | In the engine compartment, near the battery |
| Ford F-150 | In the trunk, behind the rear seat |
Consulting the Vehicle Owner’s Manual for Specific Instructions
The owner’s manual provides detailed information about the operation of your specific vehicle, including how to turn off the back windshield wiper. Refer to the “Wiper Controls” or “Windshield Wipers” section for precise instructions.
10. Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re still having trouble turning off the back windshield wiper, here are some additional troubleshooting tips:
- Check the wiper motor fuse: If the fuse is blown, the wiper motor will not receive power, and the wipers will not operate.
- Clean the wiper switch: Debris or oxidation on the wiper switch contacts can prevent the switch from functioning properly.
- Inspect the wiper relay: The wiper relay is an electrical component that controls the power supply to the wiper motor. A faulty relay can cause intermittent or complete wiper failure.
- Check the wiper stalk: If the wiper stalk is damaged or not functioning properly, it may not be able to actuate the wiper switch.
- Test the wiper motor: Disconnect the power supply to the wiper motor and use a multimeter to test its continuity. A faulty motor will not have continuity.
11. Contact Professional Help
If you’re unable to solve the problem on your own, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified automotive technician or your vehicle’s dealership for professional assistance.
| Wiper Control Switch Positions | Wiper Operation |
|---|---|
| Off | Wipers turned off |
| Intermittent | Wipers cycle on and off at a set interval |
| Low Speed | Wipers operate at a slow speed |
| High Speed | Wipers operate at a high speed |
How to Turn Off Back Windshield Wiper
To turn off the rear windshield wiper, you can use the following steps:
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Locate the wiper switch on the dashboard.
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Move the switch to the “off” position.
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The rear windshield wiper will now be turned off.
People Also Ask
How do I turn off the back windshield wiper on my car?
To turn off the rear windshield wiper on your car, follow the steps outlined in the guide above.
Why won’t my back windshield wiper turn off?
If your back windshield wiper won’t turn off, there may be a problem with the wiper switch or the wiper motor. You can try replacing the wiper switch first, and if that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the wiper motor.
How do I fix a stuck back windshield wiper?
If your back windshield wiper is stuck, you can try the following:
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Turn the wiper switch to the “off” position.
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Gently try to move the wiper blade by hand.
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If the wiper blade is stuck, you may need to apply some WD-40 or other lubricant to the wiper motor.
