2018 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2018 Honda Civic 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Honda Civic?

When diagnosing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2018 Honda Civic, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the wiper motor to determine if it is receiving power when the wiper switch is activated; a lack of power may indicate a faulty motor that requires replacement. Next, examine the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this component is crucial for the proper functioning of the wipers. If the linkage appears intact, test the wiper switch itself to ensure it is functioning correctly and sending the appropriate signals to the motor. Finally, don’t overlook the wiper blades; worn or damaged blades can also lead to ineffective wiper performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers, ensuring safe visibility while driving.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2018 Honda Civic?

When dealing with windshield wipers that have stopped functioning on a 2018 Honda Civic, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the wiper system; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the operation of the wipers, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. If the fuse is intact, the next likely culprit could be a faulty wiper motor, which may require repair or replacement if it’s not functioning correctly. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can significantly impact performance, so inspecting and replacing them is a good practice to ensure clear visibility. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this component is broken or damaged, it will prevent the wipers from moving as intended. Lastly, a malfunctioning wiper switch can also lead to operational failures, and replacing this switch may resolve the issue. By systematically checking these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially restore the functionality of your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Honda Civic?

When it comes to the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2018 Honda Civic, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Windshield wipers are a vital component for maintaining visibility during inclement weather, and their failure can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Without properly functioning wipers, your ability to see the road ahead is compromised, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, in many jurisdictions, driving with ineffective wipers may violate road safety laws, potentially resulting in fines or penalties. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair or replacement of your windshield wipers to ensure not only your safety but also compliance with local regulations. Addressing this issue promptly will help you avoid the risks associated with poor visibility and keep you safe on the road.

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2018 Honda Civic Windshield Wipers Issues & Repairs