* Fused wiper motor: The most common cause. A blown fuse dedicated to one of the wiper motor circuits will disable that side. Check your owner's manual for the fuse box location and diagram, specifically looking for fuses related to the wipers.
* Wiper motor malfunction: The wiper motor itself could be failing. This is more likely if both wipers *sometimes* work and sometimes only one does, suggesting intermittent internal failure.
* Wiring issue: A broken, corroded, or loose wire in the circuit for one of the wiper arms can cut power to that side. This could be anywhere from the motor to the wiper switch. Inspect the wiring harness carefully, looking for any damage or loose connections.
* Wiper linkage problem: The linkage that connects the motor to the wiper arms might be broken or dislodged on one side. This would prevent that arm from moving, even if the motor is working. Visually inspect the linkage for any obvious problems.
* Wiper switch malfunction: While less likely to affect only one wiper, a failing wiper switch could send power to only one side. However, this usually results in neither working, or both working erratically, rather than just one.
* Wiper arm motor connection: Check where the wiper arms connect to the motor. Sometimes the connection might be loose or damaged, preventing one arm from moving.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check the fuses: This is the easiest and quickest thing to do first.
2. Inspect the wiring: Look for any visible damage to the wiring harness, particularly around the motor and the wiper switch.
3. Examine the linkage: See if the linkage is connected properly and moving freely on both sides.
4. Test the wiper motor (if you're comfortable with this): If you have some electrical knowledge, you could test the motor directly for power using a multimeter. (Caution: This involves working with electrical systems and should only be done by someone who understands the risks involved.)
If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, it's best to take your Chevy Malibu to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
