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Quick Answer
There are a few ways to turn off windshield wipers depending on the type of wiper system your vehicle has:
- For traditional wiper systems with an on/off switch, turn the switch to the “off” position.
- For vehicles with intermittent wipers, move the wiper stalk down to the “off” or “O” position.
- Push the wiper stalk back to the rest position if you have a “return-to-park” system.
- Turn the rotary dial on the wiper stalk to “off” if you have a variable intermittent wiper system.
Always make sure the wipers are completely parked and disengaged from the windshield before turning off the vehicle. Leaving them mid-wipe can damage the wipers and windshield.
Steering Column Stalk Systems
Most modern vehicles use a wiper stalk on the steering column to control the windshield wipers. This stalk is usually on the right side of the steering wheel. The operation varies slightly between makes and models, but there are some common methods for turning wipers off:
Intermittent Wipers
Many vehicles have an intermittent wiper setting, which cycles the wipers on and off at preset intervals. To turn these wipers off, move the stalk down until it clicks into the “O” or “off” position. Avoid leaving the stalk between settings, which may activate the wipers even when off.
Return to Park Systems
Some intermittent wiper systems are “return-to-park,” meaning the wipers return to the bottom resting position when turned off. For these, you can turn the wipers off by pushing the stalk back into its upright neutral position. This will park the wipers and turn them off.
Variable Intermittent Wipers
Variable intermittent wipers allow you to adjust the intermittent interval. There is usually a rotary dial on the end of the wiper stalk to adjust the delay. Turn this dial all the way down or counter-clockwise until it clicks to the “off” position.
Speed-Dependent Wipers
On some newer vehicles, the intermittent interval adjusts based on vehicle speed. The faster you drive, the faster the wipers sweep. The wiper stalk still has an “off” position to completely deactivate the wipers.
Turn Switch Wiper Systems
Some older vehicles have wiper systems operated by an on/off switch instead of a stalk. These are simple to operate – you just flip the switch to “off” when you want to turn the wipers off. Make sure the switch is fully in the off position, not between on and off.
Automatic Rain-Sensing Wipers
Many modern luxury cars have rain-sensing wipers that automatically activate when they detect rain or moisture on the windshield. There is typically an “auto” position on the wiper stalk to activate this mode. To turn rain-sensing wipers off, switch the stalk out of auto mode and into the off position. This disables the moisture sensor.
Troubleshooting Windshield Wipers that Won’t Turn Off
In some cases, you may find that your windshield wipers won’t turn off even when the wiper controls are in the off position. Here are some steps to try:
Check Wiper Stalk Position
Make sure the wiper stalk is fully in the off position. For intermittent wipers, push the stalk all the way down until it clicks. Try holding it down for 5-10 seconds to disengage the wipers.
Turn Wipers On Then Off
Flipping the wipers on briefly before turning them off can re-set the mechanism. Turn the wipers on the lowest setting for a few swipes, then return the stalk to off.
Turn Off Vehicle and Restart
Turning the vehicle off and restarting it essentially reboots the whole system, which may release stuck wipers. Make sure the wipers are parked before shutting off.
Disconnect Wiper Motor
On some vehicles, you can remove the plastic shroud under the hood and physically disconnect the wiper motor. This will stop the wipers completely but isn’t a permanent fix.
Replace Fuse
A faulty wiper fuse could be sending constant power to the wiper motor. Locate the wiper fuse in the fuse box and replace it with a new one of the same amp rating.
Replace Wiper Relay
Like a bad fuse, a faulty relay can lock the wipers into the “on” position. Have your wiper relay tested at an auto parts store or repair shop. If it’s bad, replacing the relay will solve the issue.
Reset Voltage
Some wiper issues can be caused by voltage irregularities in the vehicle’s electrical system. Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery can reset the computer and voltage regulators, which could fix stuck wipers.
Check for Fault Codes
A mechanic can plug into your vehicle’s computer diagnostic port to check for fault codes related to the wiper system. This can reveal the exact cause, whether it’s a bad module, relay, motor, or sensor.
If you’ve tried all these steps and the wipers still refuse to turn off, have a mechanic inspect the wiper components right away. Continuously running wipers can drain the battery and cause undue wear on the wiper motor.
Conclusion
Turning off windshield wipers is usually a simple matter of flipping a switch or moving a steering column stalk. However, if your wipers ever get stuck on, there are a number of troubleshooting steps you can take, including cycling the wipers, replacing fuses, resetting voltage, and checking fault codes. Persistent wiper issues should be addressed by a qualified mechanic to prevent harm to the wiper system. Knowing the proper operation of your vehicle’s specific wiper controls will ensure you’re able to safely turn the wipers off when desired.
| Wiper System Type | How to Turn Off |
|---|---|
| On/Off Switch | Switch to “Off” position |
| Intermittent Wipers | Move stalk down to “Off” or “O” |
| Return-to-Park | Push stalk back to neutral position |
| Variable Intermittent | Turn rotary dial to “Off” |
| Speed-Dependent | Move stalk to “Off” position |
| Rain-Sensing | Disable “Auto” mode |