2005 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2005 Honda Civic 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 2005 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 2005 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.

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 2005 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2005 Honda Civic, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Start by checking the fuse associated with the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspecting the wiper motor to ensure it is receiving power when the wiper switch is activated. Next, examine the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this could hinder the wipers' movement. If these components are functioning correctly, test the wiper switch itself to confirm it is sending the appropriate signals to the motor. Finally, don’t overlook the condition of the wiper blades; worn-out blades can also lead to ineffective wiper performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently 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 2005 Honda Civic?

When troubleshooting the windshield wipers on a 2005 Honda Civic, it's essential to consider several common problems that could lead to their failure. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the wiper circuit; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the power supply, causing the wipers to stop functioning. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor may require repair or replacement to restore operation. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can significantly impact performance, so replacing them is a straightforward fix that can enhance visibility during inclement weather. It's also important to examine the wiper linkage, as any breaks or disconnections in this component can prevent the wipers from moving altogether. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch can be the source of the problem, and replacing it may be necessary to ensure proper functionality. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem of non-working windshield wipers on your Honda Civic.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2005 Honda Civic?

Repairing the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2005 Honda Civic is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The primary concern is safety; without functioning wipers, 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 repair can lead to further damage, as debris may accumulate on the windshield, causing scratches or other issues that could necessitate costly repairs. Finally, having reliable wipers enhances the overall driving experience, allowing for peace of mind during sudden weather changes. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is essential for maintaining safety, compliance, and vehicle integrity.

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