1. The Obvious:
* Wiper Switch: Is the switch in the "on" position? Try different speeds. A faulty switch is a common culprit.
* Fuses: Check your owner's manual to locate the fuse(s) for the wipers and confirm they're not blown. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage.
* Fluid: Do you have enough washer fluid? While this doesn't directly stop the wipers, sometimes people confuse lack of fluid with a wiper malfunction.
2. More Involved Issues:
* Wiper Motor: The motor itself could be faulty. This often results in no movement at all. You might hear a clicking sound from the motor if it's struggling or partially working.
* Wiper Motor Linkage: The linkage connecting the motor to the wiper arms might be broken, disconnected, seized, or worn. Inspect visually for any obvious damage or looseness.
* Wiper Arms: The arms themselves might be stuck or frozen (especially in cold weather). Try gently moving them by hand to see if they are free. Make sure they are securely attached to the wiper motor shaft.
* Electrical Connections: Corrosion or loose connections at the motor, switch, or fuse box can interrupt the electrical circuit. Inspect these for any signs of damage or looseness, and clean if necessary.
* Park Position: If your wipers are stuck in the "park" position, it may require some physical adjustment to release. Consult your owner's manual or look for a mechanism to dislodge it, which can sometimes involve a small release button or manually adjusting the wiper arm position.
* Relay: Some vehicles use a relay to control the wiper motor. A faulty relay would prevent the wipers from working. Consult your owner's manual to identify and test the relay.
* Grounding issues: A poor ground connection can lead to electrical problems, including failure of the wiper motor. Check the ground wires for corrosion or loose connections.
* Wiring Harness: A damaged wire in the wiring harness can cause intermittent or complete wiper failure. This is harder to diagnose and may require a professional's help.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Start with the simplest: Check the switch, fuses, and fluid level.
2. Visual Inspection: Look at the wiper motor, linkage, arms, and connections for any obvious problems.
3. Test the motor (if possible): If you can access the motor, you might be able to test it directly with a power source (using caution!), but this is generally for more advanced DIYers. Incorrect application could damage the motor.
4. Consult a repair manual: A repair manual specific to your year and model Ford Contour will provide detailed diagrams and troubleshooting steps.
If you've checked all of these and the wipers still don't work, it's likely you'll need the assistance of a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and experience to diagnose the problem accurately and perform any necessary repairs.
