2018 Smart Fortwo Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Non-Functional Windshield Wipers in Your 2018 Smart Fortwo 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 2018 Smart Fortwo 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 2018 Smart Fortwo 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 2018 Smart Fortwo aren't working?

When troubleshooting non-functioning windshield wipers on your 2018 Smart Fortwo, it's important to follow a methodical diagnostic approach to efficiently identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the fuse related to the wiper system, as a blown fuse is a common and straightforward problem to resolve. If the fuse is intact, inspect the wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage, since faulty blades can hinder their performance. If the blades are in good condition, the next step is to examine the wiper motor; ensure it is receiving power and functioning properly, as this component is vital for the wipers to operate. Additionally, check the wiper switch to confirm it is working correctly, as a malfunctioning switch can prevent the wipers from activating. Lastly, inspect the wiring connected to the wiper system for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also lead to wiper malfunctions. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2018 Smart Fortwo?

When addressing the issue of non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Smart Fortwo, it's important to systematically evaluate several common problems that may be causing the malfunction. Start by checking the fuse, as a blown fuse is a frequent issue that can be easily rectified by replacement. If the fuse is operational, the next component to inspect is the wiper motor; a malfunctioning motor may need repair or replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, ensure that the wiper blades are not worn out, as degraded blades can severely affect performance and visibility. Another critical area to examine is the linkage connecting the wiper motor to the wiper arms; any breaks or disconnections in this linkage will prevent the wipers from moving as intended. Lastly, consider the wiper switch, as a faulty switch can impede the wipers from turning on or functioning correctly. By methodically checking these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue with your windshield wipers, ensuring safe driving conditions.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Smart Fortwo?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Smart Fortwo, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without effective wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, heightening the risk of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions mandate that vehicles must have operational windshield wipers, and neglecting this requirement could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond immediate safety and legal concerns, postponing repairs can lead to further complications, such as damage to the wiper motor or the windshield itself, which may incur more expensive repairs down the line. Ultimately, ensuring that your windshield wipers are functioning properly not only enhances your driving experience but also protects you and others on the road. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is essential for maintaining both safety and vehicle integrity.

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