1993 Ford Taurus Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 1993 Ford Taurus Windshield Wipers and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 1993 Ford Taurus 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 1993 Ford Taurus 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1993 Ford Taurus?

To effectively diagnose non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1993 Ford Taurus, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the wiper motor ground; use a test light to ensure the ground connection is intact. If the ground is good, proceed to test the wiper motor itself by connecting a test light to the battery and checking for power at the motor connector. If the wipers are completely unresponsive, the motor may be shorted and require replacement. Next, inspect the wiper assembly for any blockages or debris that could impede movement. Additionally, verify that power is reaching the wiper motor by checking the white and dark wires for proper voltage on low and high settings, respectively. If you encounter any issues during these tests, it’s essential to check the wiring, fuses, and wiper switch for faults. Lastly, consider the possibility of blown fuses, especially if ice or snow has caused strain on the wiper blades. By systematically following these steps, you can identify and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers efficiently.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 1993 Ford Taurus?

When troubleshooting the windshield wipers on a 1993 Ford Taurus, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse; a blown fuse in the fuse box can easily disrupt the wiper's operation, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor may require replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, worn-out wiper blades can significantly affect performance, so replacing them is a simple yet effective solution. It's also important to examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any damage here could prevent the wipers from moving correctly. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch may be the culprit if the wipers are unresponsive, and replacing this switch can often resolve the issue. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and fix the windshield wiper issues on your Ford Taurus.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1993 Ford Taurus?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1993 Ford Taurus, the implications are significant. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without operational wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions mandate that vehicles must have functioning windshield wipers, and neglecting this issue could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, failing to address malfunctioning wipers can lead to further damage, such as scratches or cracks on the windshield due to inadequate cleaning. Lastly, the convenience of having clear visibility cannot be overstated; functional wipers enhance your driving experience by allowing you to focus on the road without distraction. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of your windshield wipers to ensure safety, compliance, and comfort while driving.

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