2016 Kia Forte5 Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2016 Kia Forte5 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 2016 Kia Forte5 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 2016 Kia Forte5 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 2016 Kia Forte5?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2016 Kia Forte5, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the fuse associated with the wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If the fuse is intact, inspect the wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage, as this can hinder their performance. Next, examine the wiper motor to ensure it is operational; a malfunctioning motor is a frequent culprit in wiper failures. If the motor appears to be working, investigate the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms, as any damage here can prevent movement. Additionally, test the wiper switch to confirm it is functioning correctly, as a faulty switch can disrupt the entire system. Finally, check the wiring for any loose connections or damage, as this can also affect the power supply to the wipers. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2016 Kia Forte5?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 Kia Forte5, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse; a blown fuse in the vehicle's fuse box can easily disrupt the wiper's operation, 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 simple yet effective solution. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this linkage is broken, the wipers won't move as intended, necessitating repair or replacement. Lastly, a malfunctioning wiper switch can prevent the wipers from receiving the necessary signals to operate, and addressing this may involve repairing or replacing the switch. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 Kia Forte5?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2016 Kia Forte5, the implications are significant. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk 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 to the wiper system or even the windshield itself, which may escalate repair costs. Lastly, having reliable wipers enhances your overall driving experience, providing peace of mind and comfort on the road. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is essential to ensure your safety, comply with regulations, and avoid more extensive repairs down the line.

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2016 Kia Forte5 Windshield Wipers Not Working | RepairPal