GMC Sierra Windshield Wiper Problems & Solutions

GMC Sierra trucks are some of the most reliable vehicles you will find in the US. Cabin space, control, and power-GMC Sierra trucks score high in all three core aspects. However, it’s still not impervious to wiper problems though. 

Before researching the most common GMC Sierra windshield wiper problems, I already knew that the truck had defroster problems. General Motors sent out a recall notice for 2014 to 2019 GMC Sierra trucks in Canada after discovering that the rear defroster circuits in these vehicles were compromised. 

So, I’ll start this discussion with the defroster issue before moving on to some other wiper setbacks GMC Sierra users have to deal with.

Read More: Chevy Truck Windshield Wiper Problems

GMC Sierra Windshield Wiper Problems & Solution

Defroster Problems 

When the mercury dips below the 32°F, your windshield is likely to get frozen. Before taking the truck out on the road, you turn on the defroster, only to find out that it’s not working. That’s one defroster problem you might face, but something even more sinister could happen. 

Faulty Defroster Circuit

You might find the windshield shattered into pieces. You left the car inside the garage overnight, so there’s no chance of anyone breaking in and breaking your windshield. So, what happened to your windshield? 

Solution 

The defroster could be at fault for unexplained windshield cracks. If the defroster circuit malfunctions, it could overheat and lead the windshield to crack. In the worst-case scenario, the truck could get on fire. 

Check the defroster circuit. As I mentioned earlier, some GMC Sierra models were recalled for faulty defroster circuits. If the defroster circuit is actually compromised, you will have to replace the defroster circuit to avoid severe accidents in the future. 

Blockage In The Vents & Fresh Air Intake

A common cause for the defroster to stop working is blocked vents. If you hear the blower motor running, check the vents and fresh air intake for snow buildup. 

Solution 

Clean the vents and air intake. Once they are all freed up, the blower motor should be able to deliver heat to the windshield. 

Burnt Out Wires 

If you have owned your GMC Sierra for a while, you should inspect for burnt-out wiring. It’s normal for defroster wiring to break down over use. 

Solution 

Replace the wiring to restore defroster functionality. I strongly recommend you not to do this yourself if you are not much car savvy. It’s great that you are trying to up your automotive skills, but replacing the wiring should be left to the professionals. 

Read More: Honda Accord Windshield Wipers Not Working

The Windshield Wipers Stop Working 

You put the wiper switch on, but they don’t move an inch. Or, they might rise from their resting position only to get stuck in the middle. Your windshield visibility will be left defenceless against the rain and snow unless you look into the wipers and sort out the problem. 

Solution 

When both wipers stop wiping, it’s likely that the wiper motor is toast! Have a look at it, if it’s not working, you must replace it. There’s no repairing it; getting a new wiper motor is your only option if there is something wrong with the wiper. 

In a more favorable scenario, the windshield wiper could be fine. The problem might lie in the windshield wiper fuse. If the wiper fuse is blown, it will cut out the electric supply to the motor before sacrificing itself to protect the motor from an overload. If that’s the case, get a new wiper motor fuse, and you will see the wipers resurrect. 

Windshield Wipers Automatically Turn On 

And, of course, there is the ghost wipers problem! The wipers will turn on by themselves as if your truck has just been possessed by a poltergeist! Don’t worry; you would not need a priest and holy water to exorcise the demon that’s causing you this inconvenience.  

Solution 

It could be a faulty wiper motor. Get a new motor, and the wipers should stop getting activated on their own. It could also be a wiper switch issue or a rain sensor malfunction. Check them and replace the faulty part to remedy the issue. 

Read More: Dodge Caravan Windshield Wiper Problems

Why Are My Windshield Wipers Glitching? 

Your windshield wipers might glitch because of a damaged windshield wiper motor. Other possible reasons could be a faulty wiper switch, a blown fuse, bad wiring, and damaged wiper blades and arms. 


How Do You Diagnose A Bad Windshield Wiper Switch? 

A faulty windshield wiper switch and a faulty wiper motor often show the same symptoms. You can diagnose a bad windshield wiper switch by checking the turn signals. If they don’t work and your windshield wipers malfunction, it’s surely a windshield wiper switch problem. 

Final Opinion 

The GMC Sierra windshield wiper problems have been plaguing a lot of GMC Sierra owners lately. I hope you will find a solution to your GMC Sierra wiper problem from the points I discussed above. 

Andy Kilmer
Andy Kilmer

Andy Kilmer is a former professional mechanic who has now turned blogger with a passion for all things automotive. With over a decade of experience working on cars and trucks, Andy has gained an in-depth knowledge of vehicle mechanics and repairs.

Andy's website, Vehicles Aide, provides valuable resources and guides for car owners looking to maintain and repair their vehicles. Whether you're a novice or an experienced DIY mechanic, Vehicles Aide offers practical tips and advice that can help you save money and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

In addition to running his website, Andy enjoys tinkering with cars in his spare time and attending car shows and races. He believes that cars are not just machines, but an extension of our personalities and identities. Through his writing and expertise, Andy hopes to inspire love and appreciation for cars in all his readers.

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