Issue #1: Windshield wipers aren't working but I can hear the motor
A wiper assembly commonly consists of a motor that rotates a wiper link arm that then moves the wiper blade across your windshield and back. If you turn on your wipers and hear the sound of the wiper motor but the arms aren't moving, it may be that the wiper link arm has disconnected from the motor.
The wiper link arm on your Nissan can wear out over time, causing it to disconnect from the wiper motor. However, other factors may cause the link arm to disconnect, including:
- Running your wipers over an icy windshield
- Worn blades causing skipping or chattering wiper arms
- Incorrect wiper blade timing
- Using the incorrect wiper blade size
- Clearing heavy snow from your windshield
- Running wiper blades over a dry windshield
If the link arm has disconnected from the motor, replacing the link rod bushing that keeps the arm connected to the motor may be best. Additionally, it's best to replace both wiper blades with Value Advantage Nissan Group ® Wiper Blades to help keep the wiper arms from skipping across the windshield.
How to change windshield wipers
To replace your Nissan's windshield wipers, lift the arms away from the windshield until they are upright. Rotate the wiper blade so it is facing up, then push down toward your vehicle to unsnap the blade assembly from the wiper arm hook. Snap the new wiper blade in place, and repeat the process for the second wiper blade. Consult your owner's manual to ensure you are using the correct replacement blade size.
Issue #2: Windshield wipers aren't working and there's no motor sound
If you turn your wiper blades on but don't hear the motor running, it may be that the fuse has opened or the wiper motor has malfunctioned or shorted.
The fuse has opened
To check if the wiper fuse has opened, you'll have to locate the fuse box and the correct fuse on your Nissan. Check your Nissan owner's manual to locate the fuse box under your hood. Once open, use the grid on the underside of the fuse box's lid to locate the wiper fuse.
Using your fingers or needle-nosed pliers, gently pull the fuse out of its socket and hold it to a light source. If the fuse is burned out, you should see a small broken wire or charring on the inside of the fuse. Replace the fuse with a new fuse with the same amps (the small number printed on top of the fuse).
Symptoms of a burnt-out fuse may not always be easy to spot. If your wipers aren't working and the motor isn't running, it may be best to visit your local Nissan service center for repair.
The wiper motor isn't working
If you've replaced your wiper fuse and your wiper motor still isn't working, bring your Nissan into your nearest authorized service center to have your wiper motor professionally diagnosed and repaired or replaced.
Keep Your Wipers Running With Genuine Nissan Parts
If you need to replace one or more parts on your wiper assembly, make sure you install genuine new replacement components from Nissan Parts. Order your parts online, and get our 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. Then, head to your nearest service center for professional installation.