2013 Nissan Xterra Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2013 Nissan Xterra and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
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 2013 Nissan Xterra 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.

What are the best Nissan repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2013 Nissan Xterra electronics and electrical issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.
30 Certified Locations
Shop Image

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center - Grandview

4.7
(85)
2.39 mi
1524 W 5th Ave
Columbus, OH
Open
Closes 5:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

Excite Auto Repair & Towing

4.4
(15)
5.94 mi
3430 Westerville Road
Columbus, OH
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

All In Auto Service

4.9
(25)
6.56 mi
5200 Fisher Road
Columbus, OH
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
Shop Image

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service - Grove City

4.4
(520)
6.67 mi
2131 Stringtown Rd
Grove City, OH
Open
Closes 6:00 PM
Call
See All 30 Locations

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 Nissan Xterra 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 2013 Nissan Xterra?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2013 Nissan Xterra, begin with the simplest and most accessible checks. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the windshield wipers, as a blown fuse is a common and easily rectifiable issue. If the fuse is intact, move on to the wiper motor; ensure it is operational, as a malfunctioning motor can halt wiper movement entirely. Next, examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms, for any signs of damage or disconnection that could impede function. Following this, assess the wiper switch to confirm it is sending the correct signals to the motor. Additionally, inspect the wiper blades themselves for wear or damage, as this can also affect performance. Finally, check all electrical connections for security and corrosion, as poor connections can lead to wiper failure. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your windshield wipers, ensuring a thorough and effective diagnosis.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2013 Nissan Xterra?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2013 Nissan Xterra, 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 likely culprit is the wiper motor itself, which may have failed and requires replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can hinder performance, so inspecting and replacing them is a straightforward fix that can improve visibility. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this component is broken, the wipers will not move as intended. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch can prevent the wipers from receiving the necessary signals to operate, necessitating a switch replacement. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem of windshield wipers not working on your Nissan Xterra.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2013 Nissan Xterra?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2013 Nissan Xterra, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without operational wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions enforce laws requiring functional wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond these immediate concerns, neglecting the issue can lead to further complications, such as damage to the wiper motor or even the windshield itself, which could escalate repair costs significantly. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is not just a matter of convenience but a critical step in ensuring safe and compliant driving conditions.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.