How do you fix the windshield wipers on a 1996 Nissan Sentra when only intermittent setting work but other wiper speeds fine?

The problem with your 1996 Nissan Sentra's wipers – only intermittent working, other speeds fine – strongly suggests a fault within the wiper speed control module, often called the wiper motor resistor pack or simply the wiper resistor. This component is responsible for regulating the speed of the motor by providing different levels of resistance. When it fails, you'll often lose the higher speeds but retain the intermittent setting because that circuit might be wired differently or bypassed.

Here's how to troubleshoot and potentially fix it:

1. Locate the Wiper Motor Resistor:

* Consult your repair manual: This is the best resource. It'll precisely show you the location of the resistor pack. It's usually somewhere under the dashboard, near the wiper motor linkage, or possibly within the fuse box itself. A diagram will be invaluable.

* Common Locations: Many Nissan Sentras have this resistor under the dash, sometimes tucked away and difficult to see. Look behind the steering column, near the fuse box area. It may be a small black plastic box with several wires attached.

2. Inspect the Resistor Pack:

Once you've located it, visually inspect it. Look for:

* Burn marks or discoloration: This is a strong indication of overheating and failure.

* Loose or corroded connections: Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and electrical contact cleaner. Tighten loose connections.

3. Test the Resistor Pack (Advanced):

If you have a multimeter, you can test the resistor pack for continuity and resistance across its various terminals. Your repair manual will provide the correct resistance values to check against. This step requires some electrical knowledge.

4. Replacement:

If the visual inspection or the multimeter test indicates a faulty resistor pack, you'll need to replace it.

* Purchase a replacement: Order a new wiper motor resistor pack specifically for your 1996 Nissan Sentra. Auto parts stores (online and brick-and-mortar) and online retailers can provide this. Ensure it's the correct part number.

* Replacement Procedure: This usually involves disconnecting the electrical connectors, removing the old resistor pack (often involves some minor disassembly), and installing the new one. Again, your repair manual is crucial here for detailed instructions. Take pictures as you disassemble to help with reassembly.

Important Considerations:

* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any electrical work.

* Repair Manual: Having a repair manual for your specific year and model is invaluable. It will provide diagrams, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions. You can find these online (e.g., Haynes, Chilton) or at auto parts stores.

* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working on your car's electrical system, take it to a qualified mechanic.

By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix the problem with your intermittent wipers. Remember that the resistor pack is the most likely culprit given your description of the problem.