1. Visually Inspect the Wiper Arm:
- Open the rear hatch of your Sienna.
- Check the rear wiper arm. If it's hanging loosely, it may be disconnected from its mounting point or damaged.
2. Check the Mounting Bolts:
- Look for the bolts that secure the wiper arm to the rear hatch.
- If the bolts are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver or wrench.
- If the bolts are damaged or missing, replace them.
3. Inspect the Wiper Arm:
- Check if the wiper arm itself is bent or damaged.
- If it's bent or damaged, you'll need to replace the wiper arm.
4. Check the Wiper Motor:
- The rear wiper motor may also be the source of the problem.
- Listen to the sound it makes when you operate the rear wiper.
- If it makes a grinding or clicking sound, it may need to be replaced.
5. Test the Electrical Connections:
- Ensure the electrical connections between the wiper motor and the wiper switch are secure.
- Disconnect and reconnect the connectors to make sure they are making proper contact.
6. Troubleshoot the Rear Hatch Switch:
- Check if the rear hatch switch is functioning correctly.
- Press and release the switch to see if the rear wiper moves.
- If the wiper does not move, the switch may be faulty and needs replacement.
7. Replace Damaged Components:
- If you find any damaged components like the wiper arm, wiper motor, or switch, replace them with new ones.
8. Reattach the Wiper Arm:
- After replacing any faulty parts, reattach the rear wiper arm and connect the electrical connectors.
9. Test the Wiper:
- Test the operation of the rear wiper by operating the wiper switch.
- Ensure the wiper moves smoothly and makes a consistent sweeping motion.
10. Adjust the Wiper Arm Position (if needed):
- If necessary, adjust the position of the wiper arm so it makes proper contact with the rear windshield and covers the maximum wiping area.
11. Close the Rear Hatch:
- Once everything is in place and the wiper is working correctly, close the rear hatch.
By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix the loose rear wiper in your 2001 Toyota Sienna.
