What should I do if my 2020 Ford Explorer's windshield wipers are not working?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

597 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair windshield wiper issues on your 2020 Ford Explorer with this detailed guide.

Affected Component

windshield wipers

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

Symptoms

•Windshield wipers do not move when activated
•Wipers move slowly or erratically
•Wiper motor makes a grinding or clicking noise
•Washer fluid does not spray

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the wiper blades for damage or wear.
2
Inspect the wiper arms for proper attachment to the motor.
3
Locate the fuse box and inspect the wiper fuse for continuity using a multimeter.
4
Turn on the ignition and activate the wiper switch to listen for sounds.
5
Check for voltage at the wiper switch using a multimeter.
6
Locate the wiper motor and check for visible signs of damage.
7
Verify power is reaching the motor using a multimeter.
8
Inspect the linkage system for breaks or disconnections.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Multimeter
•Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
•Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
•Wrench set
•Torx bits (if applicable)
•Safety glasses
•Work gloves

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the wiper blades for damage or wear.
2
Inspect the wiper arms for proper attachment to the motor.
3
Locate the fuse box and inspect the wiper fuse for continuity using a multimeter.
4
Turn on the ignition and activate the wiper switch to listen for sounds.
5
Check for voltage at the wiper switch using a multimeter.
6
Locate the wiper motor and check for visible signs of damage.
7
Verify power is reaching the motor using a multimeter.
8
Inspect the linkage system for breaks or disconnections.

Solution

If the windshield wipers on your 2020 Ford Explorer are not working, there could be several potential issues. Below is a detailed guide to help you diagnose and repair this problem.

Tools Required

Multimeter
Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Wrench set
Torx bits (if applicable)
Safety glasses
Work gloves

Repair Instructions

Step 1: Replace Wiper Fuse

Locate Fuse Box: Find the fuse box as per the owner's manual.
Remove the Fuse: Use a fuse puller to remove the wiper fuse.
Inspect & Replace: If the fuse is blown (metal strip broken), replace it with a fuse of the same amperage.
Test the Wipers: Turn on the ignition and check if the wipers function.

Step 2: Replace Wiper Motor

Disconnect Battery: Remove the negative terminal from the battery for safety.
Remove Cowl Panel: Use screwdrivers or Torx bits to remove any fasteners securing the cowl panel.
Unplug Wiper Motor: Disconnect the electrical connector from the wiper motor.
Remove Wiper Motor: Unscrew the motor mounting bolts and carefully remove the motor from the vehicle.
Install New Motor: Position the new motor in place, secure it with bolts, and reconnect the electrical connector.
Reassemble Cowl Panel: Reattach the cowl panel and secure it with screws.
Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative terminal to the battery and test the wipers.

Step 3: Repair or Replace Wiper Linkage

Remove Wiper Arms: Use a puller tool if necessary to remove the wiper arms from the splines.
Inspect Linkage: Check the linkage for any breaks or excessive wear.
Repair/Replace: If damaged, replace the linkage assembly. Ensure all connections are tight.
Reinstall Wiper Arms: Reattach the wiper arms to the motor and ensure they are properly aligned.

Final Steps

Test Functionality: After completing repairs, test the wipers in all modes (intermittent, low, high) to ensure they function correctly.
Check Washer Functionality: If washer fluid does not spray, check the washer pump and fluid levels.

Conclusion

If the windshield wipers are still not functioning after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult a professional technician for further diagnostics, as there may be deeper electrical issues or faults within the vehicle’s control modules.