2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Fix Windshield Wiper Issues on 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 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.

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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

When diagnosing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the wiper motor to ensure it is receiving power when the wiper switch is activated; this will help determine if the motor itself is faulty. Next, inspect the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this component is crucial for the proper operation of the wipers. If these elements check out, test the wiper switch to confirm it is functioning correctly and sending the appropriate signals to the motor. Finally, don’t overlook the wiper blades; worn or damaged blades can also contribute to wiper failure. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify the root cause of the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your windshield wipers to full functionality.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

When dealing with windshield wiper issues on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to their failure. One of the first things to check is the fuse; a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box can easily disrupt the wiper's operation, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. If the fuse is intact, the next likely culprit could be a faulty wiper motor, which may require replacement if it’s not functioning correctly. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can significantly affect performance, so inspecting and replacing them is a simple yet effective solution. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this linkage is broken, the wipers will not move as intended, necessitating repair or replacement. Lastly, a malfunctioning wiper switch can also prevent the wipers from working, so it’s wise to inspect this component as well. By systematically diagnosing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the urgency cannot be overstated. The primary concern is safety; without functional wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many regions have laws mandating the use of operational wipers, and neglecting this issue could lead to fines or legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, there is the risk of damaging the windshield itself; debris left unremoved can cause scratches and other long-term issues. Lastly, having working wipers contributes to a more comfortable driving experience, particularly in areas prone to inclement weather. Therefore, addressing the repair of your windshield wipers promptly is essential for ensuring safety, compliance, and overall driving satisfaction.

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