2013 Toyota Corolla Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 2013 Toyota Corolla 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 2013 Toyota Corolla 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 2013 Toyota Corolla 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 steps to diagnose the windshield wiper issue in a 2013 Toyota Corolla?

To effectively diagnose the windshield wiper issue in your 2013 Toyota Corolla, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the wiring connected to the wiper motor, as loose or damaged connections can often be the root cause of malfunctioning wipers. If the wiring appears intact, proceed to assess the functionality of the wiper motor itself; if one wiper operates while the other does not, this suggests that the motor is still working, eliminating the need to check the fuse or electrical components at this stage. Finally, examine the condition of the windshield wiper blades. Torn or worn blades can hinder their ability to clear the windshield effectively, leading to visibility issues. If you find any damage, replacing the blades is a straightforward fix that can significantly improve performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issues affecting your windshield wipers.

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

Addressing the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2013 Toyota Corolla is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that should be prioritized. Driving without operational wipers can severely impair visibility during rain or snow, increasing the risk of accidents. Moreover, many states enforce laws that require functioning wipers, and failing to comply can result in fines or a "fix-it-ticket." This legal aspect adds an extra layer of urgency to the repair, as neglecting it could lead to unnecessary complications. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the critical nature of this repair is essential; it is not merely about comfort but about ensuring safe driving conditions and adhering to legal standards. Therefore, if your windshield wipers are not functioning, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to maintain both safety on the road and compliance with the law.

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