2013 GMC Yukon Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 2013 GMC Yukon 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 2013 GMC Yukon 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 2013 GMC Yukon 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 2013 GMC Yukon?

When diagnosing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2013 GMC Yukon, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach to identify the root cause of the issue. Start by checking the wiper motor, as this is often the primary culprit. Use a test light to probe the terminal for the black wire, ensuring that the light illuminates, which indicates a proper ground connection. If the ground is functioning correctly, proceed to test all the wiper motor's functions. If everything checks out but the wipers still do not operate, it may be time to consider replacing the wiper motor itself. However, if you find that any terminals are unresponsive, you should inspect the wiring, fuses, and the wiper switch for potential faults. Be aware of common symptoms associated with a faulty wiper motor, such as slow operation, improper parking, or complete failure, as these can guide your diagnosis. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issues with your windshield wipers, ensuring safe visibility during inclement weather.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2013 GMC Yukon?

When troubleshooting windshield wiper issues on a 2013 GMC Yukon XL 1500, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A frequently encountered issue is a malfunctioning wiper motor, which can prevent the wipers from operating altogether. Additionally, the wiper switch may be faulty, leading to a complete failure or erratic behavior, such as wipers that continue to operate even when turned off. If you notice that the wipers are moving slowly or not parking correctly, this could indicate a failing motor that requires attention. Another simple yet often overlooked problem is torn or worn wiper blades, which can significantly affect performance and are easy to replace. Furthermore, check for a blown fuse or damaged wiper controls, as these can also disrupt the wiper system's functionality. By systematically examining these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem, ensuring your windshield wipers operate smoothly and reliably.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2013 GMC Yukon?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2013 GMC Yukon, the urgency cannot be overstated. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions have laws requiring operational windshield wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or other legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, neglecting this issue can lead to further complications, such as damage to the windshield itself, which may incur costly repairs down the line. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is essential not only for your safety but also for the overall maintenance of your vehicle. Taking the time to troubleshoot and repair your windshield wipers can save you from more significant issues in the future, making it a critical DIY task.

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