Mechanic Problem – The Case of the Faulty Mercedes Benz Windshield Wipers

In Winter 2021, our new Shrub Oak Repair shop was visited by a customer complaining that the windshield wipers on his 2006 Mercedes C280 did not work. Our ASE Certified Auto Mechanic inspected the car and determined that a faulty indicator reported the hood as open, even though it was latched. During the previous two weeks, he had been at three other repair shops that failed to diagnose this problem. It was frustrating as the customer could not use his car in the rain and would stay home when rain was forecast.

Rich M of Putnam Valley, NY gave us a 5-star review commenting on SureCritic:

I brought my Mercedes in to check an electrical issue with my wipers. They diagnosed and fixed the problem fast. It was reasonably priced. Also found my steering rack was leaking and replaced it, too. They are good and trustworthy here. No hard sell!

He gave us an additional vote of confidence by bringing in two additional cars for service – one needing an oil change and the other a brake repair job.

Read Fred’s Google Reviews

Rich’s experience was unusual. With that said, Westchester County and Putnam County experience a wide range of weather. Sudden changes in visibility – caused by a torrential downpour, blinding snow or even a mud splash from a nearby motorist – require working wipers so drivers have sufficient reaction time to avoid potholes, road debris or even other cars.

5 common windshield wiper problems:

·     Wipers don’t operate at the speed selected or operate at only one speed

·     Wipers don’t operate at all

·     Rubber is worn

·     Wipers are bent or damaged

·     There is a humming sound when the wipers are operating

Wipers are part of a mechanical system powered by electrical impulses directed by drivers. So, mechanical failure, electrical non-delivery or material breakdown are broad ways to categorize issues faced by motorists.

·     Wear and tear of parts, mounting blocks or bushings

·     Corrosion or material fatigue

·     Loose pivot nuts at connection joints

·     Rubber can crack or dry out due to sun, dirt, snow or ice

·     Wiper electrical motor, fuse, switch or wiring can malfunction, blow or get shorted out

·     Signals may not relay or can be faulty

Often, motorists can replace windshield wiper blades, nuts, or fluids themselves. A damaged motor, fuse, wire, or signal could be replaced as well – but may require diagnostic tools or a bit more electrical knowledge. Car maintenance is an ongoing process. Windshield wipers are not used daily; however, when needed they can be critical to your safety. Whether your wipers move in tandem, in opposition or are single arm, you’ll need them to move fast enough to prevent too many raindrops from obscuring visibility but not so fast that windows dry too quickly resulting in squeaky blade movement.

Auto Care You Can Depend On

At Fred’s Auto Repair, we have professional auto mechanics to assist with windshield wiper issues ranging from the routine to the unusual on all makes and models. Be sure to call (914) 762-1199 to schedule an appointment at either our Briarcliff Manor or Shrub Oak repair shop for NY State inspection, oil change, maintenance service or more challenging repair issues.