2020 Lexus ES350 Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 2020 Lexus ES350 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 2020 Lexus ES350 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 2020 Lexus ES350 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 2020 Lexus ES350?

When diagnosing non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2020 Lexus ES350, it's crucial to follow a structured diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Begin by inspecting the fuse related to the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common culprit that can easily be replaced. If the fuse is intact, move on to examining the wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage, since ineffective blades can significantly impair visibility. Should the blades be in good condition, the next step is to assess the wiper motor for any visible signs of malfunction or damage that could hinder its operation. After that, check the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms, ensuring it is secure and functioning correctly. Additionally, test the wiper switch to verify that it is sending the appropriate signals to the motor, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent the wipers from responding. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections that may disrupt the electrical flow to the wipers. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues affecting your windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2020 Lexus ES350?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2020 Lexus ES350, 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 power supply, rendering the wipers inoperable. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor itself, as a malfunctioning motor can prevent the wipers from moving altogether. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can lead to ineffective performance, so replacing them is a straightforward fix that can restore functionality. It's also important to examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any breaks or damage here can hinder movement. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch may be the culprit, as it controls the signals sent to the motor. 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 2020 Lexus ES350?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2020 Lexus ES350, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The primary concern is safety; without effective wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions mandate that vehicles have operational wipers, making this not just a safety issue but a legal one as well. Ignoring the problem can lead to further complications, such as damage to the wiper motor or the windshield itself, which could result in more expensive repairs down the line. Moreover, functional wipers contribute to a more comfortable driving experience, allowing you to focus on the road without distraction. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of your windshield wipers to ensure safe and compliant driving conditions.

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