2004 Chevrolet Tracker Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2004 Chevrolet Tracker 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 2004 Chevrolet Tracker 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on my 2004 Chevrolet Tracker?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the fuse associated with the wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspecting the wiper motor; ensure that power is reaching the motor when the wiper switch is activated. If the motor is receiving power but not functioning, it may need replacement. Next, examine the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this could prevent the wipers from operating correctly. Additionally, test the wiper switch on the steering column to confirm it is sending the appropriate signals to the motor. Finally, don’t overlook the wiper blades themselves; worn or damaged blades can also contribute to wiper failure. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2004 Chevrolet Tracker?

When dealing with windshield wipers that have stopped functioning on a 2004 Chevrolet Tracker, 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 likely culprit could be the wiper motor itself, which may have failed and would require either repair or replacement. Additionally, worn-out wiper blades can significantly affect performance, so inspecting and replacing them if necessary is a good practice. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this linkage is broken or damaged, it will prevent the wipers from moving. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch can also lead to a complete stop in wiper function, and replacing this switch may be necessary to restore operation. By systematically checking these components, 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 2004 Chevrolet Tracker?

Repairing the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that demands immediate attention. When wipers fail to operate, your visibility during rain or adverse weather conditions is severely compromised, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The urgency to address this problem cannot be overstated, as neglecting it could lead to more significant damage to the wiper system or even result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, driving with ineffective wipers not only endangers you but also puts other road users at risk. Therefore, prioritizing the repair of your windshield wipers is essential for ensuring a safe driving experience and maintaining the overall functionality of your vehicle.

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Troubleshooting 2004 Chevrolet Tracker Windshield Wipers