1. The Obvious:
* Fuse: Check the owner's manual to locate the fuse for the rear wiper and confirm it's not blown. Replace it with a fuse of the same amperage if necessary.
* Wiper Motor: The motor itself could be faulty. This is often the culprit and requires replacement. You might hear a clicking sound if the motor is trying to engage but failing.
* Switch: The rear wiper switch on the stalk could be broken or malfunctioning. Try the switch multiple times; if it's intermittent, it's a likely suspect.
2. Less Obvious, but Still Common:
* Wiring: A broken or corroded wire in the wiring harness leading to the motor is a possibility. This often happens due to age, wear, and tear, especially where the wiring flexes as the hatch opens and closes. Inspect the wiring carefully for breaks or corrosion.
* Wiper Arm Mechanism: The linkage connecting the motor to the wiper arm itself might be broken, disconnected, or seized. Inspect this mechanism for any visible damage or binding.
* Wiper Blade: While it might seem unlikely, a severely worn or frozen wiper blade can sometimes put too much strain on the motor, causing it to fail. Try replacing the blade.
* Ground Connection: A poor ground connection can prevent the motor from receiving the necessary current. Check the ground wire connection at the motor for corrosion or looseness.
* Fluid: While not directly responsible for the wiper motor itself, if the washer fluid reservoir is empty, some vehicles have a system where the wipers won't work until the reservoir is filled, as a safety measure to prevent damage from running dry.
3. More Complex Issues:
* Body Control Module (BCM): In some vehicles, the BCM controls the rear wiper. A faulty BCM could prevent the wiper from working. This requires diagnostic tools to confirm.
* Park/Neutral Position Switch (PNPS): In some older vehicles, the rear wiper may only work if the vehicle is in Park or Neutral. The PNPS could be faulty.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Start with the easiest checks: Fuse first, then the switch and wiper blade.
2. Visual inspection: Carefully examine the wiring, wiper motor, linkage, and wiper arm.
3. Check for power: If you have some electrical knowledge, you could use a multimeter to check for power at the motor and the switch.
4. Consult a repair manual: A repair manual specific to your 2003 Chevrolet Venture will provide diagrams and detailed troubleshooting steps.
If you're not comfortable working with car electronics, it's best to take your Venture to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and efficiently.
