1997 Acura RL Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 1997 Acura RL and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
75% chance it's the
Wiper Motor
0%
25% chance it's the
Switch
The most common reasons a 1997 Acura RL windshield wipers aren't working are broken wiper motor and issues with the switch.
  • Wiper Motor: A faulty wiper motor or a bad electrical connection can result in intermittent or non-functioning windshield wipers.
  • Switch: A faulty switch can result in intermittent or complete failure of the electrical component it controls, leading to malfunctioning systems.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1997 Acura RL windshield wipers aren't working?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Inability to control the windshield wipers comes in several forms, and they are all indicative of windshield wiper switch failure. The windshield wipers may not work in all settings, may not turn on when requested, may not move to their parked position when turning off, or the washer pumps may or may not run at random. This is a general list of symptoms, but failure of anything the windshield wiper switch controls will indicate the need for testing the windshield wiper and washer switch.

A failed windshield wiper motor will do one of two things in the event of failure. First, it can intermittently work, meaning when the wiper switch is turned on, the windshield wipers may activate, and run for a random amount of time. This may happen at random, or change with a bump. Lastly, the windshield wipers could show no signs of activity, indicating motor failure.

The moment water touches the windshield, you know if you need new windshield wiper blades. If your wiper blades are torn, cracked, hard, or brittle, it is time for replacement. Wipers should also be replaced if the wiper blades only smear water around, seem to make a mess, streak the windshield, and miss large patches. If you are unhappy with the current wiper blades on your vehicle, this is a very economical change to make.

Windshield wiper arms will be replaced mainly for aesthetic reasons or damage. If the windshield arms become bent or rusted, the windshield wipers may not contact the windshield at the proper angle, or there may be no contact at all. Also, the sun will take a toll on these parts after years of use, and fading or clear coat peeling will result, not to mention rust.

What are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1997 Acura RL?

To diagnose non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1997 Acura RL, start by checking the wiper motor's ground connection. Use a test light to probe the terminal for the black wire; if the light illuminates, this indicates that the ground is functioning properly. Next, assess the wiper motor's operational status by testing all its functions. If everything checks out but the wipers still do not work, it may be time to replace the wiper motor itself. However, if the test light does not illuminate, you should investigate further by examining the wiring, fuses, and the wiper switch for any faults. This methodical approach allows you to pinpoint the issue effectively, ensuring that you can tackle the repair with confidence.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 1997 Acura RL?

When troubleshooting the windshield wipers on a 1997 Acura RL that have stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the wiper system; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the power supply, rendering the wipers inoperable. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor may require repair or replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, worn-out wiper blades can hinder performance, so replacing them if they appear damaged or old is a good practice. It's also important to examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any breaks or damage here can prevent the wipers from moving properly. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch could be the culprit, as it may not be sending the correct signals to the motor. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the issue with your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1997 Acura RL?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1997 Acura RL, the urgency cannot be overstated. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is drastically reduced, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions mandate that vehicles must have operational windshield wipers, and neglecting this issue could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, delaying repairs can lead to further complications, such as damage to the wiper motor or even the windshield itself, which could escalate repair costs. Lastly, having reliable wipers enhances your overall driving experience, allowing you to navigate various weather conditions with confidence and comfort. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is essential for your safety, compliance, and peace of mind on the road.

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1997 Acura RL Windshield Wipers Not Working | RepairPal