2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser Windshield Wipers Not Working

Fix Windshield Wiper Issues on 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser

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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 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser 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 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser 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 wipers not working on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser?

When diagnosing why the windshield wipers are not functioning on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex issues. Start by checking the wiper switch to ensure it is operational; a faulty switch can prevent the wipers from receiving the necessary electrical signal. If the switch appears to be working, inspect the wiper motor, as this component is a common point of failure. Next, verify all electrical connections to both the wiper motor and switch, ensuring they are secure and free from corrosion, as poor connections can disrupt functionality. Additionally, check the vehicle's battery and fuses, as a weak battery or blown fuse can also lead to wiper failure. It's also important to assess the alignment of the wiper arms and blades, as misalignment can hinder their movement. Finally, confirm that the correct size wiper blades are installed, as using the wrong size can affect performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue with your windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser?

When dealing with windshield wiper malfunctions on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. A primary culprit is often the wiper motor, which can fail due to wear and tear, rendering the wipers completely inoperative. Additionally, issues with the wiper switch or relay can lead to erratic wiper behavior, such as failure to return to the resting position or inconsistent operation. It's also crucial to ensure that the wiper blades are the correct size—16 inches for the driver's side and 14 inches for the passenger side—since using the wrong blades can result in poor performance and potential damage. Weather conditions, particularly ice and snow, can cause the wipers to become stuck, especially if they are unable to complete their cycle due to frozen components. Lastly, general electrical issues, including faulty wiring or blown fuses, can disrupt the wiper system's functionality. By identifying these common problems, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and restore their windshield wipers to optimal working condition.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working windshield wipers on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser?

When it comes to repairing non-working windshield wipers on a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser, urgency cannot be overstated. Neglecting this issue can lead to serious safety risks, particularly during adverse weather conditions where visibility is compromised. Functional windshield wipers are essential for maintaining clear sightlines while driving, and their failure can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, if the underlying problem is related to components like the relay or switch, delaying repairs could lead to more extensive damage, resulting in costlier repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to address any malfunctioning wipers immediately to ensure safe driving conditions and avoid potential hazards on the road.

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