2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Windshield Wipers Aren't Working

Fix Windshield Wiper Issues on Your 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 Toyota Land 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 2018 Toyota Land 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 initial diagnostic steps to take when the windshield wipers on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser aren't working?

When faced with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the wiper fuse located in the fuse box, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt wiper operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the wiper motor for any signs of damage or malfunction, as this component is crucial for wiper movement. Next, examine the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; any loose or disconnected parts here can prevent the wipers from functioning properly. Following this, test the wiper switch to ensure it is sending the correct signals to the motor. Lastly, don’t overlook the condition of the wiper blades themselves, as worn-out blades can sometimes be mistaken for a more significant mechanical issue. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the problem with your windshield wipers, saving time and money on professional repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser?

When dealing with non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser, 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 wipers' operation, and replacing it is a straightforward fix. If the fuse is intact, the next likely culprit could be the wiper motor itself, which may require repair or replacement if it's malfunctioning. Additionally, worn or damaged wiper blades can significantly affect performance, so inspecting and replacing them is a good practice. Another potential issue is the wiper linkage, which connects the motor to the wiper arms; if this linkage is broken, the wipers won't move as intended. Lastly, a faulty wiper switch can also lead to operational failures, so checking this component for issues is crucial. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and restore functionality to your windshield wipers.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser?

When it comes to repairing non-functioning windshield wipers on a 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser, the urgency cannot be overstated. First and foremost, safety is paramount; without functioning wipers, visibility during rain or snow is severely compromised, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, many jurisdictions have laws requiring operational windshield wipers, and driving without them could result in fines or legal repercussions. Beyond immediate safety and legal concerns, neglecting this issue can lead to further damage to the wiper system or even the windshield itself, which may escalate repair costs significantly. Lastly, having reliable wipers enhances your driving experience, allowing for a clear view of the road in adverse weather conditions. Therefore, addressing the malfunction promptly is essential not only for your safety but also for the overall upkeep of your vehicle.

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