Wiper and Washer Systems: Description and Operation

Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation

Windshield Wiper System

The windshield wiper system consists of a wiper motor, a linkage, a wiper arm and a blade, and a wiper/washer switch. The windshield wiper circuit incorporates a self parking device which consists of a worm gear and a cam plate in order to keep the circuit engaged temporarily when the switch is turned off. The wiper system is driven by a permanent magnet-type motor. The windshield wiper motor is mounted on the dash panel and is directly connected to the windshield wiper linkage.

The windshield wiper motor has 2 speeds, LO and HI, and also has intermittent wiper capability. The wiper switch is an integral part of the wiper/washer switch. Windshield wiper operation is actuated through the lever on the right side of the steering column.

Windshield Washer System

The windshield washer system is equipped with a washer fluid reservoir, a washer fluid pump, hoses, nozzles, and a wiper/washer switch. The windshield washer reservoir is mounted behind the front left wheel well splash shield. Attached to the reservoir is a washer pump, which pumps fluid through the hoses to the 2 nozzles mounted on the hood. The washer switch is an integral part of the wiper/washer switch. Windshield washer operation is actuated through the lever on the right side of the steering column.

Rear Sensor System

The sensor is mounted inside of the windshield, near the rearview mirror. The sensor projects infrared light into the windshield at a 45-degree angle. If the glass is dry, most of this light is reflected back into the sensor by the front of the windshield. If water droplets are on the glass, they reflect the light in different directions. When water is on the glass, the less light makes it back into the sensor. The electronics and software in the sensor turn on the wipers when the amount of light reflected onto the sensor decreases to a preset level. When the wiper switch is turned to AUTO, the unit can operate the wipes at any speed. The software sets the speed of the wipers based on how fast the moisture builds up between wipes. The system adjusts the speed as often as necessary to match with the rate of moisture accumulation.