1996 Nissan Maxima Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 1996 Nissan Maxima 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 1996 Nissan Maxima 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 1996 Nissan Maxima 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 diagnostic steps to take when the windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Maxima are not working?

When faced with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Maxima, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause of the problem. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the wiper system, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the wiper motor for any signs of malfunction, as a defective motor can prevent the wipers from operating. Following this, examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any damage or disconnection here can lead to failure. Additionally, testing the wiper switch is crucial, as it controls the wiper's operation and may not be sending the correct signals. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as faulty wiring can disrupt the entire system. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue with your windshield wipers, ensuring safe visibility while driving.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 1996 Nissan Maxima?

When dealing with non-functional windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Maxima, 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 circuit; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the power supply to the wipers, making them inoperable. If the fuse is intact, the next likely culprit could be the wiper motor itself, which may have failed and requires replacement to restore movement. Additionally, worn wiper blades can significantly hinder visibility, so inspecting and replacing them is a straightforward task that can enhance performance during rain. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this linkage is broken or disconnected, the wipers will not function properly. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch can also lead to operational failures, and replacing this component can often resolve the issue. By systematically checking these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the windshield wipers on your Nissan Maxima, ensuring safe driving in adverse weather conditions.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Maxima?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Maxima, the implications are significant. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without operational wipers, your visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions enforce laws requiring functional windshield wipers, and neglecting this issue could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond safety and legality, there is the risk of damaging your windshield; debris left unremoved can lead to scratches or other costly repairs. Lastly, having reliable wipers enhances your driving experience, allowing you to navigate various weather conditions with confidence and comfort. Therefore, addressing the repair of your windshield wipers should be a top priority to ensure your safety, compliance with the law, and the longevity of your vehicle.

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