Lincoln Town Car Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functioning Windshield Wipers in Your Lincoln Town Car 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 Lincoln Town Car 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 Lincoln Town Car 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.

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.

Troubleshooting Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in a Lincoln Town Car

When troubleshooting non-functional windshield wipers in a Lincoln Town Car, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by inspecting the pivot nut, as a loose connection can prevent the wiper arm from moving effectively. If both wipers are unresponsive, check the wiper motor and switch for any signs of failure, as these components are common culprits. Listen for any clicking noises from the motor when activating the wipers; this could indicate a malfunction that may require replacement. Additionally, observe the wipers' parking position; if they do not return to the correct resting place, this may signal a deeper issue within the wiper system. Don't forget to examine the wiper relay and fuses, as blown fuses or a faulty relay can disrupt the entire operation. Lastly, inspect the vacuum nipple on the wiper pump to ensure all connections are secure. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues with your Lincoln Town Car's windshield wipers.

What to Check When Windshield Wipers Aren't Working on a Lincoln Town Car?

When troubleshooting windshield wipers that aren't functioning on a Lincoln Town Car, it's essential to examine several critical components that could be at fault. Start by checking the wiper motor, as a failure here is one of the most frequent culprits behind wiper issues. If the motor is operational, the next step is to inspect the wiper switch, which can sometimes malfunction and disrupt the wipers' operation. Additionally, the multifunction switch should be evaluated, as defects in this component can also lead to wiper failure. It's important to consider the vehicle's electrical system as well; a weak battery or alternator may impact the wiper motor's performance. If you hear the motor running but the blades remain stationary, the wiper module could be the issue. Before replacing any parts, conducting thorough testing is crucial to accurately diagnose the problem, ensuring that you address the right component and restore your windshield wipers to full functionality.

Why Are the Windshield Wipers Not Working on a Lincoln Town Car?

When windshield wipers on a Lincoln Town Car fail to operate, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. Malfunctioning wipers can severely impair visibility during rain or adverse weather conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. Common culprits include a broken wiper motor or a faulty switch, both of which can lead to complete wiper failure. If only one wiper is operational, a loose pivot nut may be the culprit, and tightening it can often resolve the issue. Additionally, if the wipers do not stop when turned off, it may indicate problems with the fluid flow control in the wiper motor. In some cases, water leakage into the vehicle can exacerbate wiper malfunctions, particularly in older models like the 1998 Lincoln Town Car. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and fix these issues promptly to ensure safe driving conditions and prevent further damage to the vehicle's electrical system or interior.

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