2011 Toyota Camry Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Common Causes of Windshield Wiper Malfunctions in Your 2011 Toyota Camry and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2011 Toyota Camry 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 2011 Toyota Camry 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.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2011 Toyota Camry?

Repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2011 Toyota Camry is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that should be addressed immediately. When windshield wipers fail, your visibility is severely compromised, especially during rain, snow, or sleet, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions. The potential for accidents increases significantly if the wipers are unable to clear your windshield effectively. Additionally, issues such as a malfunctioning wiper motor or switch can result in erratic wiper behavior, leaving you unprepared for sudden weather changes. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to being caught off guard in a downpour or snowstorm, putting both you and other road users at risk. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of your windshield wipers to ensure safe driving and maintain the overall functionality of your vehicle.

What are the steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue in a 2011 Toyota Camry?

To effectively diagnose windshield wiper issues in your 2011 Toyota Camry, start by observing the functionality of the wipers. If only one wiper is operational, this suggests that the wiper motor is likely still working, so you can skip checking the fuse. Next, inspect the wiper motor by gently tapping it; sometimes, a simple jolt can restore functionality if the motor is stuck. If tapping doesn’t help, it may indicate that the motor needs replacement. Additionally, examine the windshield wiper switch and the motor mounted on the chassis for any signs of malfunction, as even minor issues can disrupt wiper performance. If you notice intermittent wiper activity, this could signal a deeper electrical issue that may require professional assistance. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of your windshield wiper problems.

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