2017 Honda HR-V Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2017 Honda HR-V 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 2017 Honda HR-V 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 2017 Honda HR-V 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 initial steps to diagnose why the windshield wipers on a 2017 Honda HR-V aren't working?

To effectively diagnose why the windshield wipers on your 2017 Honda HR-V aren't functioning, start with a methodical approach that prioritizes simpler solutions. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt wiper operation. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspecting the wiper motor for any signs of malfunction, as a faulty motor can prevent the wipers from moving altogether. Next, examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any damage or disconnection here can disrupt the wipers' movement. Additionally, ensure that the wiper switch is operational, as it controls the wiper's functions and may be sending incorrect signals if defective. Finally, take a moment to inspect the wiper blades themselves for any damage or obstructions that could impede their performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your windshield wipers to full functionality.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2017 Honda HR-V?

When dealing with windshield wipers that have stopped functioning on a 2017 Honda HR-V, it's essential to consider several 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 power supply, leading to non-functioning wipers. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor may require replacement to restore functionality. 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, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any breaks or damage here can prevent the wipers from moving correctly. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch could be the culprit, and replacing it may be necessary to regain control over the wiper system. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem of non-working windshield wipers on your Honda HR-V.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2017 Honda HR-V?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2017 Honda HR-V, the implications are significant. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is drastically reduced, 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, not only to the wiper system itself but also to the windshield, which could escalate repair costs. Lastly, having reliable wipers enhances your overall driving experience, providing peace of mind and comfort for you and your passengers. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is essential to ensure safe and compliant driving conditions.

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2017 Honda HR-V Windshield Wiper Issues & Solutions