Materials Needed:
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Replacement Wiper Motor (if necessary)
- Electrical Contact Cleaner
Step 1: Check Wiper Motor:
- Lift the hood of your Saturn SL2 and locate the wiper motor, usually near the firewall on the passenger's side.
- Inspect the wiper motor for any visual signs of damage or corrosion.
- If the motor is damaged, you may need to replace it with a new one.
Step 2: Test Wiper Linkages:
- Check the wiper linkages that connect the wiper motor to the wiper arms.
- Look for any bent or disconnected linkages that may prevent the wipers from returning to the home position.
- If necessary, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the linkage connectors back into place.
Step 3: Clean Electrical Connections:
- Locate the electrical connections between the wiper motor and the wiring harness.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors by squeezing the release tabs on the sides.
- Spray electrical contact cleaner into the connectors and let it dry completely.
- Reconnect the electrical connectors, making sure they are secure.
Step 4: Adjust Wiper Arms:
- If the wipers still don't stop in the home position, you may need to adjust the wiper arms.
- Loosen the nuts or bolts holding the wiper arms to the wiper linkage crank.
- Re-position the wiper arms so that they rest in the home position when the wiper motor is off.
- Tighten the nuts or bolts to secure the wiper arms.
Step 5: Test Wiper Functionality:
- Test the wipers by turning them on and off and check if they consistently return to the home position.
- If the problem persists, there may be an issue with the wiper motor or the wiper control module. In that case, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or an auto electrical professional.
Additional Tips:
- If you've replaced the wiper motor, make sure it is properly secured and aligned with the wiper linkage.
- If the wiper motor is still not functioning properly, check for any wiring issues or faulty relays that may affect its operation.
- If the intermittent wiper function is still not working consistently after following these steps, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a professional.
