Are your Ford Escape windshield wipers not working? Wiper troubles are common phenomena in cold weather when you need them the most. Sometimes, the underlying cause is as simple as frosted windshields. Unfortunately, you won’t get away that easily every time.
Today, I am here to talk to you about the most common reasons that are responsible for your windshield wipers to stop working. I don’t own a Ford Escape myself, but I have had the opportunity to work on several Ford Escape models.
Based on my experience, these are the usual suspects for making your wipers stop working.
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Ford Escape Windshield Wipers Not Working: Causes & Solutions
Problem 1: Your Wipers/ Windshield Have Frozen
When the temperature plunges below the 32°F, the windshield and the wipers could get frozen. This could happen if you have to drive for prolonged periods during snowfall. Leaving the car out in winter could also freeze your wipers and windshield. It could also happen if you keep the car in a shaded but unheated garage.
Solution
Modern Ford Escape models, like the Ford Escape 2017, feature wiper de-icers. Press the defrost button, and the wipers should start moving a minute or so later. Also, spray a water-rubbing alcohol solution on the windshield to accelerate defrosting. The concentration should be one part water and two parts rubbing alcohol.
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Problem 2: Your Wiper Motor Fuse Has Blown
Now, let’s get to the more serious problems, which will require a bit more time and effort to remedy. As you know, the fuse is there to prevent the motor from short circuits. If the fuse blows off, the wiper motor won’t work. So, your wipers will remain idle as well.
Solution
Look at the engine compartment power distribution box. The wiper motor fuse should be located on the left side of the compartment. The upper and lower part of the compartment should have relays. The fuses should be located in the middle. It’s the biggest fuse in the arrangement; you should be able to locate it easily.
To make sure, take a look at the fuse box diagram, and you will know instantly which one I’m talking about. Check whether it’s blown or not. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one. The wipers will regain functionality as soon as the new fuse comes in.
Problem 3: The Wiper Motor Is Malfunctioning
The fuse protects the wiper motor from electric overload. But, the wiper motor can still get damaged over time. Since the wiper motor powers wiper movement, it’s impossible for the wipers to operate if the motor is toast.
Solution
Unfortunately, there is no repairing wiper motors. Even if you do somehow manage to patch it up and get it back running, it’s only a temporary measure. You are gonna have to replace to wiper motor to ensure smooth wiper operation.
The Wipers Are Damaged
Your wipers take quite a beating during harsh weather conditions. Snow and water gradually degrade the rubber material, and eventually, the rubber coating gets so damaged that the wiper can barely move across the windshield.
Besides the wiper blades, the wiper arms can also get damaged. If the wiper arm spline gets damaged and the grooves strip out, the wiper arm’s connection with the wiper regulator will break off.
Solution
You are gonna have to get new blades or wiper arms, depending on the state of your current wipers. Make sure to check both the blades and the wiper arm. Sometimes, only the wiper blades or the arms need replacement. In some cases, you will have to go for a complete wiper system overhaul.
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What Would Windshield Wipers Stop Working?
Damaged wipers are the most common reason for wipers to stop working. Regular exposure to weather extremities damages the wipers. Regardless of their build, they will require replacement sooner or later. Other than that, it could be a wiper motor issue. In the most harmless scenario, your windshield might have become too dry or frozen for the wipers to operate.
How Do You Reset The Windshield Wipers On A Ford Escape?
Remove the wipers from the wiper post by removing the 15mm nuts that retain them. Turn on the engine afterwards and activate the wipers. Allow them to complete full circles, so the wiper motor returns to the zero position. Turn off the motor and the wiper after the wipers complete a full wiping circle. Reinstall the wipers. Now, your Ford Escape wipers have been reset.
Final Opinion
If your Ford Escape windshield wipers are not working, I’m confident that you can’t resolve the issue by going through this article. Don’t assume the worst first. Make sure the windshield is defrosted and there is enough moisture for the wiper to move. If that all checks out, you need to pop up the hood and have a look.
