2006 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 2006 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers 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 2006 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 2006 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 are the steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue in a 2006 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose a windshield wiper issue in your 2006 Honda Civic, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse box located under the dashboard on the driver's side; a blown fuse is a common culprit for wiper malfunctions. If the fuse appears intact, listen for the wiper motor when you activate the wipers; a humming sound indicates the motor is functioning, while silence may suggest a motor failure. Next, manually move one of the wipers to assess the drive links; if both wipers operate smoothly, the drive links are likely in good condition. Additionally, consult any service bulletins from Honda regarding wiper motor replacements, as these can provide valuable insights into known issues. Finally, familiarize yourself with the basic operation of your wipers, as understanding their mechanics can aid in pinpointing the problem. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your windshield wipers.

What are the common causes for windshield wipers not working on a 2006 Honda Civic?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2006 Honda Civic, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. A broken wiper motor is often the primary culprit, as it is responsible for powering the wipers. Additionally, issues with the wiper switch can disrupt the electrical flow needed for operation, making it another area to investigate. It's also wise to check the fuse box located under the driver’s side dashboard, as a blown fuse can easily prevent the wipers from functioning. If you notice that one wiper moves while the other remains still, the drive links may be faulty or broken, which can hinder proper movement. Lastly, extreme weather conditions, particularly freezing temperatures, can affect the performance of wiper blades, leading to temporary malfunctions. By systematically examining these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem with your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2006 Honda Civic?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2006 Honda Civic, the urgency cannot be overstated. The primary concern is safety; without operational wipers, visibility during rain or snow is drastically reduced, significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, many jurisdictions have laws mandating functional windshield wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or other legal repercussions. Additionally, neglecting this issue can lead to further complications, such as damage to the windshield itself, as dirt and debris accumulate without being cleared away. Therefore, addressing the repair of your windshield wipers should be a top priority to ensure safe driving conditions, compliance with traffic laws, and the overall integrity of your vehicle.

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