1990 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 1990 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 1990 Honda Civic 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 1990 Honda Civic 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.

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 1990 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 1990 Honda Civic, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the wiper motor; ensure that it is receiving power when the wiper switch is activated. If the motor is unresponsive despite power, it may need replacement. Next, examine the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this could prevent the wipers from functioning properly. Additionally, test the wiper switch itself to confirm it is operational and sending the correct signals to the motor. Finally, don’t overlook the wiper blades; worn or damaged blades can also contribute to the perception that the wipers are not working. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers, ensuring a safer driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 1990 Honda Civic?

When troubleshooting the windshield wipers on a 1990 Honda Civic, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be causing the malfunction. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the wiper circuit; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the power supply to the wipers, making them inoperable. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a faulty motor may require repair or replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, worn-out wiper blades can significantly affect performance, so replacing them if they appear damaged or ineffective 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 disconnected, the wipers will not operate. Lastly, a malfunctioning wiper switch can also prevent the wipers from working, and replacing this switch may resolve the issue. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and fix the problem with your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1990 Honda Civic?

Repairing the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 1990 Honda Civic is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The primary concern is safety; without functional 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 legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, neglecting this issue can lead to further damage to your vehicle. Debris and dirt can accumulate on the windshield, potentially causing scratches or other damage that may require costly repairs. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is essential not only for your safety but also for the overall maintenance of your vehicle.

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1990 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Troubleshooting Guide