FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volvo/XC90/Second Generation (2015-2024)/my Volvo XC90's windshield wipers are working intermittently what's the issue

my Volvo XC90's windshield wipers are working intermittently what's the issue

Volvo XC90 Second Generation (2015-2024)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
568 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix intermittent windshield wipers on your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components to avoid shock.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before accessing any components near the engine bay.

Symptoms

  • •Windshield wipers operate sporadically or fail to operate entirely
  • •Wiper speed settings do not respond as expected
  • •Wipers may stop in an upright position
  • •No noise or sound from wiper motor when activated
  • •Flickering or inconsistent wiper movement

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the wiper control switch for proper operation and signs of wear or damage.
  2. 2Check the fuse for the windshield wipers using the vehicle's fuse diagram.
  3. 3Test the wiper motor by applying voltage directly to it to see if it operates.
  4. 4Inspect the wiper linkage for any signs of damage or disconnection.
  5. 5Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring between the switch and the motor.
  6. 6Examine the wiper relay for proper function and replace if necessary.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required:
    • Screwdriver set
    • Multimeter
    • Wrench set
    • Pliers
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the ignition is off. Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shock.

2. Check and Replace the Wiper Control Switch

  • Remove the steering column cover using a screwdriver.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector from the wiper control switch.
  • Use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity in all positions (low, high, and intermittent).
  • If faulty, replace the switch with a new one, reconnect the electrical connector, and reassemble the steering column cover.

3. Inspect and Replace the Wiper Motor

  • Locate the wiper motor, typically found under the cowl panel at the base of the windshield.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector from the wiper motor.
  • Use a wrench to remove the mounting bolts securing the motor.
  • If the motor does not operate when voltage is applied, replace it with a new wiper motor.
  • Reinstall the new motor, reconnect the electrical connector, and secure it with the mounting bolts.

4. Check Wiper Linkage

  • Remove the wiper arms by loosening the nuts using a wrench.
  • Inspect the wiper linkage for wear or damage; ensure it is properly connected to the motor.
  • If any part of the linkage is damaged, replace the linkage assembly.

5. Test and Reassemble

  • Reconnect the battery and test the wipers to ensure they operate correctly in all settings.
  • Reinstall the wiper arms in the correct position, ensuring they are locked in place.

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

  • Screwdriver set
  • Multimeter
  • Wrench set
  • Pliers

Parts Required

  • Wiper control switch (if faulty)
  • Wiper motor (if faulty)
  • Wiper linkage assembly (if damaged)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

4 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Volvo XC90 brake pads wear out too quickly what could be the issue

    Discover solutions for rapid brake pad wear in your Volvo XC90. Follow our diagnostic steps and repair instructions for effective results.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Frequent need to replace brake pads (more than twice a year)
    • •Squeaking or grinding noises when braking
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Volvo XC90 vibrate when braking at high speeds

    Learn how to diagnose and fix braking vibrations in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Vibration felt in the steering wheel when braking
    • •Pulsating brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Volvo XC90 pull when I accelerate

    Learn how to diagnose and fix pulling sensation during acceleration in Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructio...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle pulls to one side during acceleration
    • •Uneven tire wear
    • +{count} more
  4. how to troubleshoot steering issues in my Volvo XC90 after 80k miles

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix steering issues in your Volvo XC90 after 80,000 miles. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and solut...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering feels heavy or unresponsive
    • •Unusual noises (grinding or whining) when turning the steering wheel
    • +{count} more
  5. how to troubleshoot the ABS light on my Volvo XC90

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix the ABS light issue on your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions included.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Pulsating brake pedal during braking
    • +{count} more
  6. why is my Volvo XC90 ABS light on and traction control disabled

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light and traction control issues in your Volvo XC90. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Traction control system (TCS) disabled
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation