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What should I do if my 2021 Toyota Highlander's wipers stop working? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What should I do if my 2021 Toyota Highlander's wipers stop working?

What should I do if my 2021 Toyota Highlander's wipers stop working?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
1-3 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
601 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair wiper issues on your 2021 Toyota Highlander with step-by-step instructions.

Affected Component
wiper system
Estimated Time
1-3 hours

Symptoms

  • •Wipers do not move when activated.
  • •Wiper motor may make a clicking sound or remain silent.
  • •Wipers may be stuck in one position.
  • •No washer fluid spray when button is pressed.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

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
  • •Jumper wires
  • •Relay tester (optional)

Additional Information

Affected Component
wiper system
Estimated Time
1-3 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
4 items

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Back to Generation
Problem: Wipers Not Working on 2021 Toyota Highlander

Step 1: Visual Inspection

  • Tools Required: None
  • Check the wiper blades for any physical damage or obstructions.
  • Inspect the wiper arm to ensure they are not bent or broken.
  • Look for any visible signs of damage to the wiper motor or wiring.

Step 2: Check Wiper Switch

  • Tools Required: Multimeter
  • Test the wiper switch by turning it to different speeds and observing if there is any response.
  • Use the multimeter to check for continuity on the wiper switch. If there is no continuity, the switch may need replacement.

Step 3: Inspect Fuses

  • Tools Required: Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
  • Locate the fuse box (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side or in the engine compartment).
  • Check the fuse for the windshield wipers (refer to the owner's manual for the exact fuse location and amperage).
  • If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same amperage.

Step 4: Check Relay

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, relay tester (optional)
  • Locate the relay for the wipers (again, refer to the owner’s manual).
  • Remove the relay and check it for continuity with a multimeter or replace it with a known good relay to see if the wipers work.

Step 5: Test Wiper Motor

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, jumper wires
  • Disconnect the wiper motor connector.
  • Use the multimeter to check for power at the connector while activating the wiper switch.
  • If power is present but the motor does not operate, the motor is likely faulty and needs replacement.
  • If power is not present, trace the wiring back to the switch and check for any potential breaks or shorts.
Repair Instructions

If the Fuse is Blown

  1. Remove the blown fuse using a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers.
  2. Replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
  3. Test the wipers to see if they operate.

If the Wiper Switch is Faulty

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Remove the steering column cover (usually requires a Torx screwdriver).
  3. Disconnect the wiring harness from the wiper switch.
  4. Remove the wiper switch from the steering column.
  5. Install the new wiper switch and reconnect the wiring harness.
  6. Reinstall the steering column cover and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  7. Test the wipers.

If the Wiper Relay is Faulty

  1. Remove the faulty relay from the fuse box.
  2. Install a new relay in the same position.
  3. Test the wipers.

If the Wiper Motor is Faulty

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Remove the wiper arms using a wiper arm puller if necessary.
  3. Remove the wiper cowling by taking out the screws securing it.
  4. Disconnect the motor’s wiring harness and remove the mounting screws.
  5. Replace with a new wiper motor and secure it in place.
  6. Reconnect the wiring harness and reassemble the cowling and wiper arms.
  7. Reconnect the battery terminal and test the wipers.
Conclusion

By following these diagnostic and repair steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the wipers not functioning and perform the necessary repairs. If issues persist after these steps, it may be advisable to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis.