Owner's Problem Description
The owner of a 2009 Volkswagen Golf reported that after cleaning snow off the windshield, the wipers stopped moving after he grabbed them while the motor was still running. The wipers are free to move but do not operate with the motor. The owner is seeking a solution to fix the wiper issue.
Professional Technical Analysis
The 2009 Volkswagen Golf features a wiper system powered by an electric motor, typically rated at 12V. Given the symptoms, the first step is to confirm the motor's operational status, which seems functional as the motor runs but does not actuate the wipers. The wiper arms can be moved freely, indicating that the linkage between the motor and wipers is compromised. It is plausible that the nut securing the wiper arm to the motor's spline has loosened or that the linkage has broken or disconnected. This issue can occur due to thermal expansion and contraction, especially in cold climates where ice and snow can exert additional force on the wiper components. A detailed inspection should focus on the wiper motor mount and linkage assembly. The wiper system's operation is critical for visibility and safety, and any failures in this area must be addressed promptly. If the linkage is intact, electronic control issues could also be explored, but the immediate focus should be on mechanical connections.
Possible Causes
Most common causes (ordered by frequency):
- Loose or Disconnected Wiper Arm Nut: The nut that secures the wiper arm to the motor may have come loose, preventing the arm from being driven by the motor. This is a common failure point, especially after forceful manual manipulation. The torque specification for this nut is typically around 30 Nm (22 lb-ft). - Visual inspection reveals a loose nut below the wiper arm, and the wipers can be moved freely without resistance.
- Wiper Linkage Failure: The linkage connecting the wiper motor to the wiper arms may have broken or disconnected, which would prevent the wipers from functioning while the motor is operational. This often occurs due to wear and tear or previous ice loading. - Testing the wiper motor shows it operates, but linkage movement is restricted or non-existent during activation.
- Wiper Motor Failure: Although less likely given that the motor runs, there could still be an internal failure within the motor such as a faulty gear mechanism that does not transfer motion to the wiper arms properly. - The motor is operational but does not produce the necessary torque to drive the wiper arms.
Diagnostic Steps
Professional Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose the issue. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- STEP 1 - Visual Inspection of Wiper Assembly: Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the wiper assembly to locate any loose connections. Check the nut that secures the wiper arm to the motor shaft. If this nut is loose, it should be torqued to the manufacturer's specification of approximately 30 Nm (22 lb-ft).
- STEP 2 - Test Wiper Motor Operation: Activate the wiper motor to confirm it operates correctly. Observe the movement of the wipers while the motor runs. If the motor operates but does not actuate the wipers, further investigation into the linkage is required.
- STEP 3 - Inspect Linkage and Connections: If the nut is secure and the motor operates, inspect the linkage between the motor and the wiper arms. Look for any broken components or disconnections that prevent the wipers from moving.
- STEP 4 - Reassemble and Test: After any necessary repairs are made, reassemble the wiper components and perform a final test to ensure proper operation. Ensure wipers return to the park position when deactivated.
