2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?

To effectively diagnose windshield wiper issues on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe, start with a thorough examination of the electrical system. Begin by verifying that the wiper motor is receiving power; if it remains silent, check the relevant fuses for any damage. Next, utilize a multimeter to test the voltage at the wiper motor when the switch is activated, which will help you determine if the problem lies within the electrical circuit or the mechanical components. It's also crucial to inspect the ground connection for the wiper motor, ensuring it is secure and free from corrosion, as a poor ground can hinder functionality. Once you've confirmed the electrical aspects, proceed to remove the cowl to access the wiper motor and transmission. With the cowl off, observe the motor's operation; if it runs without moving the wipers, the issue may be with the wiper transmission or the motor itself. Inspect the wiper transmission for wear, such as stripped gears or seized pivots, and check the wiper arms for any damage or loose connections. If the wipers exhibit intermittent functionality, this could indicate a deeper electrical issue or a failing motor, necessitating a closer look at the wiring and connections. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the root cause of the windshield wiper problem.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?

When dealing with windshield wiper issues on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to their failure. One prevalent issue is the wiper motor or transmission malfunction, where the motor may still operate, but a seized transmission or damaged gears prevents the wipers from moving. Additionally, electrical problems such as faulty wiring or a malfunctioning switch can disrupt the wiper's functionality, even if the fuses are intact. Mechanical failures, often due to rust or wear, can also hinder the movement of the wiper arms or pivots, particularly in vehicles exposed to harsh weather. Some owners experience intermittent wiper operation, which may indicate a failing motor or loose electrical connections. Furthermore, while the design of the hood can complicate access to the wiper arms for maintenance, it is crucial to inspect the wiper mechanism for issues like a faulty park switch or corrosion within the motor. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can better diagnose and address the issues affecting their windshield wipers, ensuring safer driving conditions.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe?

Addressing the issue of non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe is of utmost importance due to the immediate safety risks involved. When wipers fail, visibility is severely compromised, particularly in adverse weather conditions, which can lead to dangerous driving situations and increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, many regions enforce laws that require functional wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond safety and compliance, neglecting this issue can lead to further mechanical problems; for instance, a loose wiper arm can damage the wiper motor or transmission, resulting in more costly repairs. Furthermore, if the wiper motor continues to operate without the wipers moving, it may lead to corrosion or rust, jeopardizing the integrity of the vehicle's components. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of windshield wipers to ensure safe driving conditions and avoid escalating repair costs.

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2012 Hyundai Santa Fe Windshield Wipers Not Working