1. Check the New Motor Carefully:
* Grounding: Make absolutely sure the motor is properly grounded. A poor ground can cause excessive current draw and blow the fuse.
* Wiring Connections: Double-check every wire connection to the motor. Look for any frayed wires, pinched wires, or connections that aren't secure. Even a slightly loose connection can cause arcing and blow the fuse.
2. Inspect the Wiper Motor Switch:
* Internal Short: The switch itself could be faulty, causing a short to ground or a short between high and low speed circuits. This is a very common cause of this type of problem.
* Testing (Advanced): If you have a multimeter, you could test the switch's continuity between different terminals in various positions (high, low, park). This requires a wiring diagram and some electrical knowledge.
3. Examine the Wiring Harness:
* Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the entire wiring harness leading to the wiper motor, looking for any damage (cuts, chafing, water damage). Pay close attention to the area where the harness enters the cabin and near the wiper motor itself.
* Continuity Test (Advanced): A multimeter can be used to check for continuity along the wiring harness to rule out any breaks or shorts.
4. Consider the Wiper Linkage:
* Mechanical Binding: Though less likely to cause an immediate fuse blow, a severely seized or jammed wiper linkage could create enough resistance to overload the motor and trigger the fuse. Try to move the wiper arms by hand to check for free movement.
5. Relay (If Applicable):
* Some vehicles use a relay for the wiper motor. If your Elantra does, examine it for damage or check its function with a multimeter.
Important Safety Precautions:
* Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components to prevent accidental shocks or short circuits.
* Wiring Diagram: Obtain a wiring diagram for your 2000 Hyundai Elantra's wiper system. This is essential for accurate testing and tracing the wiring. You can often find these online through repair manuals or forums.
If you're not comfortable working with car electrical systems, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge can lead to further damage or injury. The immediate fuse blow strongly points to a short circuit, which needs to be found and fixed before replacing any other parts.
