Discovery Windshield Wiper Switch

Volunteer · 04-14-2009, 02:27 PM

The windshield wipers on my 1996 Discovery will only work when I press the windshield washer button. The wipers run their pre-set two or three times, then shut off.

The rotary switch doesn't turn the wipers on so I must presume the 12-year old switch has finally given up the ghost. Since the wipers work after pressing the windshield wiper button, I know it isn't the fuse nor the wiper motor. Could it be anything other than the switch?

Since the headlight switch on these prototype Discovery's is a mid-1990's type Ford truck switch, would a Ford truck dealer also have the windshield wiper switch? Or is that one presumption too many?

**RV Wizard** · 04-14-2009, 06:24 PM

You should troubleshoot out the switch. It could be in the regulator at the motor. Are you getting voltage out of the switch when low or high speed is selected?

Chuck Sances · 04-15-2009, 07:04 AM

When I fiirst got my D I could not turnn on the wiper. I found I was turning the dial behind the push button windshield washer. I found that I had to turn the washer button to activate the washer. I sometimes forget that even now. I know that this may have nothing to do with you however it was good for meto remdmber it as I will be leaving soon for the summer to volunter in WA.
Chuck

Volunteer · 04-15-2009, 08:12 AM

Mike, I haven't even pulled the switch off the dash yet. A volunteer's life is a busy one.

Chuck, you may have hit the nail on the head. I'll check tonight when I get back home. I remember pulling and pushing on the rotary delay wheel while turning it but I never actually turned the button you depress to activate the washer. Duh.....

Now that shows you just how bad the drought is here in the Hill Country of Texas. I never use the darn wipers unless I'm trying to get my inspection sticker renewed.