2015 Toyota Tacoma Windshield Wipers Not Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Windshield Wipers on Your 2015 Toyota Tacoma 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 2015 Toyota Tacoma 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 2015 Toyota Tacoma 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 2015 Toyota Tacoma?

When diagnosing windshield wipers that are not functioning on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before delving into more complex issues. Start by checking the fuse, as a blown fuse is a common culprit that can easily be overlooked. If the fuse is intact, proceed to verify that both the wiper switch and the wiper motor are receiving power; this can be done using a test light or multimeter with the ignition in the "on" position. If power is present, inspect the wiper switch for any faults, as a malfunctioning switch may fail to send the necessary signals to the motor. Should the switch be operational, the next step is to examine the wiper motor itself for any signs of damage or failure. Additionally, inspect the wiper linkage and transmission for any broken or misaligned components, as these can hinder the wipers' movement. Finally, ensure that the wiper blades and arms are correctly attached and free from obstructions. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the issues affecting your Tacoma's windshield wipers.

What are the common problems that could cause the windshield wipers to stop working on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma?

When dealing with windshield wiper issues on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma, it's essential to understand the common problems that may arise. One of the primary culprits is the wiper motor, which can fail due to electrical issues, preventing the wipers from functioning altogether. Additionally, a blown fuse linked to the wiper motor can also halt their operation. Another area to inspect is the wiper arms and linkage; loose nuts in the pivot can cause the arms to detach, while damaged linkage components, such as broken plastic sockets, can lead to malfunction. Wiper blades themselves should not be overlooked, as torn or worn blades can hinder their ability to clear the windshield effectively, resulting in poor visibility. Furthermore, the switch or control module that operates the wipers may be faulty, leading to erratic behavior or complete failure. In colder climates, frozen or snowed-on wipers can also be a significant issue, as they may become stuck to the windshield. Lastly, ensure that the vehicle's battery is in good condition, as a weak battery can impact the electrical systems, including the wiper motor. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and address the root cause of your windshield wiper problems, making it easier to perform DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address the non-working windshield wipers on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma?

Addressing non-working windshield wipers on a 2015 Toyota Tacoma is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The primary concern is safety; impaired visibility during adverse weather conditions can lead to dangerous driving situations and increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, operating a vehicle with malfunctioning wipers may violate local laws, resulting in fines or penalties. From a maintenance perspective, neglecting this issue can exacerbate existing problems, such as electrical failures or mechanical wear, which could lead to more costly repairs down the line. Common causes of wiper failure include blown fuses, faulty control switches, or damaged wiper arms, all of which can be diagnosed and repaired with some basic DIY skills. Therefore, it is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure safe driving conditions and maintain the integrity of your vehicle. If you feel uncertain about your ability to fix the problem, seeking assistance from a professional mechanic is advisable to avoid further complications.

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2015 Toyota Tacoma Windshield Wipers Not Working | RepairPal