Wipers Always On

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Wipers Always On
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Wipers Always On

Step Action Yes No
Schematic Reference:  Wiper/Washer System Schematics  
Connector End View Reference:  Wiper/Washer System Connector End Views  
1 Did you review the Wiper/Washer System Description and Operation and perform the necessary inspections? Go to Step 2  Go to Symptoms - Wiper/Washer Systems 
2
  1. Turn the ignition ON.
  2. Turn the windshield wiper/washer switch OFF.
Do the windshield wipers remain in the park position?
Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems Go to Step 3 
3 Are the windshield washers on along with the wipers? Go to Washers Always On  Go to Step 4 
4
  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the harness connector of the windshield wiper motor.
  3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  4. Connect a test lamp from the signal 1 circuit of the windshield wiper switch to a good ground.
Does the test lamp illuminate?
Go to Step 6  Go to Step 5 
5 Connect a test lamp from the signal 2 circuit of the windshield wiper switch to a good ground.
Does the test lamp illuminate?
Go to Step 7  Go to Step 9 
6 Test the windshield wiper switch signal 1 circuit for a short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 12  Go to Step 8 
7 Test the windshield wiper switch signal 2 circuit for a short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 12  Go to Step 8 
8 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the windshield wiper/washer switch. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 12  Go to Step 10 
9 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the windshield wiper motor module. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
Go to Step 12  Go to Step 11 
10 Replace the windshield wiper/washer switch. Refer to Wipers/Washer Switch Replacement  in Steering Wheel and Column.
Did you complete the replacement?
Go to Step 12  -
11 Replace the windshield wiper motor module. Refer to Wiper Motor Cover Replacement .
Did you complete the replacement?
Go to Step 12  -
12 Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
System OK Go to Step 3 
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.