Activating your car’s rear wiper is a crucial safety measure, especially during inclement weather conditions. Whether you’re navigating through a torrential downpour or encountering a thick layer of snow, a properly functioning rear wiper ensures clear visibility behind your vehicle. Knowing how to turn it on swiftly and effectively is essential for every driver.
Most modern vehicles feature a dedicated rear wiper control lever located on the right-hand side of the steering column. This lever typically has a symbol that resembles a car with a wiper blade extending from the rear. To activate the rear wiper, simply move the lever down one or more notches. Each notch corresponds to a different wiper speed, with higher notches resulting in faster wiping cycles.
Additionally, many vehicles offer intermittent rear wiper settings. These settings allow you to set the wiper to wipe at specific intervals, such as every 5 or 10 seconds. This can be particularly useful during light rain or snow when continuous wiping may be excessive. To access intermittent settings, locate the rotating dial or button on the wiper control lever and adjust it accordingly.
Identifying the Rear Wiper Control
**1. Locate the Windshield Wiper Controls:** Typically located on the steering column, they are usually a stalk or lever behind the steering wheel. These controls typically have multiple settings, including off, intermittent, low speed, and high speed.
**2. Find the Switch for Rear Wiper:** On most vehicles, the rear wiper control is separate from the front wiper controls. It’s often labeled with a symbol of a rear windshield or a small wiper icon. Look for a switch or button specifically designated for the rear wiper.
**3. Identify the Different Settings:** Rear wiper controls typically have fewer settings than front wipers. Common settings include:
- Off: Disables the rear wiper.
- Intermittent: Activates the rear wiper at a set interval (e.g., every 10 or 20 seconds).
- Manual: Activates the rear wiper continuously.
- Washer: Activates the rear windshield washer fluid to clean the window before wiping.
**4. Check Your Owner’s Manual:** If you’re unsure about the location or functionality of your rear wiper controls, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your model.
Locating the Rear Wiper Lever
Locating the lever that controls the rear wiper can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, there are some general steps you can follow to find it:
- Check the steering column: In many vehicles, the lever for the rear wiper is located on the left side of the steering column, near the turn signal lever. It may be a small, inconspicuous lever, so you may need to look closely.
- Examine the dashboard: Some vehicles have the rear wiper lever located on the dashboard, usually to the left of the steering wheel. Look for a lever or switch that is labeled “Rear Wiper” or has an icon of a car with a wiper blade.
- Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual: If you’re still unable to find the rear wiper lever, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It should provide a detailed diagram and instructions on how to operate the rear wiper.
| Vehicle Make | Rear Wiper Lever Location |
|---|---|
| Honda Accord | Left side of steering column |
| Toyota Camry | Dashboard, left of steering wheel |
| Ford F-150 | End of turn signal lever |
Understanding Wiper Modes
Many modern vehicles come equipped with multiple wiper modes, allowing drivers to customize the speed and pattern of their wipers based on the severity of the weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the most common wiper modes:
Intermittent Wiper Mode: This mode activates the wipers at predetermined intervals, such as every 5 or 10 seconds. It’s ideal for light rain or drizzle, as it provides periodic visibility without being too distracting.
Low Wiper Mode: This mode sets the wipers to a low, constant speed. It’s suitable for moderate rainfall or snow, providing a steady stream of visibility without overwhelming the driver with excessive water displacement.
High Wiper Mode: This mode activates the wipers at their maximum speed. It’s designed for heavy rainfall or snowstorms, where rapid water removal is crucial for maintaining visibility.
Automatic Wiper Mode (Rain-Sensing Wiper Control): This mode uses a rain sensor to automatically adjust the wiper speed based on the intensity of the rainfall. It provides hands-free operation and ensures optimal visibility in varying weather conditions.
Mist Wipe Mode: This mode activates the wipers at a very slow speed, providing just enough motion to clear away light condensation or mist. It’s suitable for situations where the windshield is slightly foggy or dirty.
| Wiper Mode | Speed | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Intermittent | Predetermined intervals | Light rain or drizzle |
| Low | Constant low speed | Moderate rainfall or snow |
| High | Maximum speed | Heavy rainfall or snowstorms |
| Automatic (Rain-Sensing) | Adjusts automatically based on rainfall | Varying weather conditions |
| Mist Wipe | Very slow speed | Light condensation or mist |
Activating Intermittent Wiping
The intermittent wiping mode activates the rear wiper at set intervals, providing efficient cleaning without constant wiping.
To activate intermittent wiping:
- Locate the rear wiper stalk, typically on the right-hand side of the steering column.
- Push the stalk down once to activate the rear wiper on a single cycle.
- Rotate the stalk knob clockwise to adjust the wiping interval. Shorter intervals result in more frequent wiping, while longer intervals provide less frequent wiping.
- Refer to the table below for specific wiping intervals and corresponding knob positions:
| Knob Position | Wiping Interval (Seconds) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 30 |
| 2 | 15 |
| 3 | 8 |
| 4 | 5 |
| 5 | 3 |
Adjusting Wiping Speed
The rear wiper’s wiping speed can be adjusted to suit your preference. To do this, use the knob or switch located on the dashboard or near the wiper stalk. The knob or switch will typically have several settings, such as:
- Off: Turns off the rear wiper.
- Intermittent: Wipes the rear windshield at regular intervals, such as every few seconds or minutes.
- Normal: Wipes the rear windshield at a constant speed.
- Fast: Wipes the rear windshield at a high speed.
Select the desired wiping speed by turning the knob or pressing the switch. The rear wiper will then operate at the selected speed until you change it or turn off the wiper.
Wiping Speed Setting Description Off The rear wiper is turned off. Intermittent The rear wiper wipes the rear windshield at regular intervals, such as every few seconds or minutes. Normal The rear wiper wipes the rear windshield at a constant speed. Fast The rear wiper wipes the rear windshield at a high speed. Switching to Continuous Wiping
To switch to continuous rear wiping, follow these steps:
- Locate the rear wiper control stalk on the left-hand side of the steering column.
- Push the stalk down once to activate the rear wiper.
- Push the stalk down again to switch to intermittent wiping.
- Hold the stalk down for a few seconds to switch to continuous wiping.
- Release the stalk to stop the rear wiper.
The table below summarizes the steps for switching to continuous rear wiping:
Step Action 1 Locate the rear wiper control stalk on the left-hand side of the steering column. 2 Push the stalk down once to activate the rear wiper. 3 Push the stalk down again to switch to intermittent wiping. 4 Hold the stalk down for a few seconds to switch to continuous wiping. 5 Release the stalk to stop the rear wiper. Note that the specific steps for switching to continuous rear wiping may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
Turning On the Rear Defroster
The rear defroster is a heating element that helps to clear frost and ice from the rear window of a vehicle. It is typically activated by a button or switch on the dashboard. Once activated, the defroster will heat up the rear window, causing the frost or ice to melt or evaporate.
Using the Rear Wiper
In addition to the defroster, many vehicles also have a rear wiper that can be used to remove water, snow, or dirt from the rear window. The rear wiper is typically activated by a lever or switch on the dashboard or steering column. Once activated, the wiper will move back and forth across the rear window, wiping away any debris.
Adjusting the Rear Wiper Speed
Many vehicles allow you to adjust the speed of the rear wiper. This can be useful for different weather conditions. For example, you may want to use a slower speed in light rain or snow, and a faster speed in heavy rain or snow.
Changing the Rear Wiper Blade
The rear wiper blade should be replaced periodically, especially if it becomes worn or damaged. Replacing the rear wiper blade is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few minutes.
Vehicle Wiper blade size Honda Civic 14 inches Toyota Camry 15 inches Ford Focus 16 inches Using Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is a liquid that is used to clean the windshield of a car. It is typically made from a combination of water, alcohol, and detergent. Windshield washer fluid can be purchased at most auto parts stores and gas stations.
To use windshield washer fluid:
- Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir. This is typically located under the hood of the car, near the windshield. It will have a cap that is labeled “Windshield Washer Fluid.”
- Remove the cap and fill the reservoir with windshield washer fluid. Be sure to not overfill the reservoir.
- Replace the cap.
- Turn on the windshield wipers. This will activate the windshield washer fluid and clean the windshield.
Tips:
- It is important to use windshield washer fluid that is specifically designed for your car. Using the wrong type of fluid can damage the windshield wipers or the windshield itself.
- Windshield washer fluid can freeze in cold weather. If you live in a cold climate, be sure to use a windshield washer fluid that is rated for cold temperatures.
- You should check the windshield washer fluid level regularly and add fluid as needed.
Troubleshooting:
If your windshield wipers are not working properly, there are a few things you can check:
- Check the windshield washer fluid level. If the reservoir is empty, add fluid and try again.
- Check the windshield wiper blades. If the blades are worn or damaged, they will not be able to clean the windshield effectively. Replace the blades if necessary.
- Check the windshield wiper motor. If the motor is not working, the wipers will not be able to move. This is a more complex repair, so you may need to take your car to a mechanic.
Troubleshooting Rear Wiper Issues
If your rear wiper is not working properly, there are a few things you can check:
- Check the fuse. The rear wiper fuse is usually located in the fuse box under the hood. If the fuse is blown, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the wiring. The wiring for the rear wiper can be damaged by corrosion or rodents. If the wiring is damaged, it will need to be repaired.
- Check the motor. The rear wiper motor can fail over time. If the motor is not working, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the linkage. The linkage for the rear wiper can become disconnected or damaged. If the linkage is disconnected or damaged, it will need to be reconnected or replaced.
- Check the wiper blade. The rear wiper blade can become worn or damaged. If the wiper blade is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the fluid level. The rear wiper fluid reservoir is usually located in the trunk. If the fluid level is low, it will need to be refilled.
- Check the switch. The rear wiper switch is usually located on the dashboard. If the switch is not working, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the relay. The rear wiper relay is usually located in the fuse box under the hood. If the relay is not working, it will need to be replaced.
- Check the module. The rear wiper module is usually located behind the dashboard. If the module is not working, it will need to be replaced.
If you have checked all of these things and the rear wiper is still not working, you may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
Locating the Rear Wiper Switch
The rear wiper switch is typically found on the left-hand side of the steering column, near the headlight switch. Look for a lever or knob with a rear wiper icon.
Activating the Rear Wiper
Once you’ve located the rear wiper switch, push or pull it to the “On” position. This will activate the wiper, which will automatically start wiping the rear windshield.
Adjusting the Wiper Speed
Many rear wipers come with adjustable speed settings. To change the speed, turn the wiper switch clockwise (for faster) or counterclockwise (for slower).
Intermittent Wiping
Some rear wipers offer an intermittent wiping mode, which allows you to set the wiper to wipe at regular intervals. To activate intermittent wiping, push or pull the wiper switch to the “Int” or “I” position.
Using the Washer Fluid
If your vehicle has a rear wiper washer, you can use it to clean the rear windshield. To use the washer fluid, pull or push the wiper stalk toward you. This will spray washer fluid onto the windshield, and the wiper will automatically wipe it away.
Maintaining Rear Wiper Blades
Rear wiper blades, like front wiper blades, need to be replaced periodically. Here are some tips for maintaining rear wiper blades:
- Check the blades regularly: Inspect the wiper blades for signs of damage or wear, such as cracks or tears.
- Clean the blades: Wipe the wiper blades with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Replace the blades every 6-12 months: Wiper blades typically need to be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on usage and weather conditions.
- Use high-quality blades: When replacing the wiper blades, opt for high-quality blades that are designed for your specific vehicle.
- Keep the windshield clean: A clean windshield will help the wiper blades perform better.
Wiper Blade Size Recommended Replacement Interval 10 inches 6-9 months 12 inches 8-12 months 14 inches 9-15 months How to Turn On Rear Wiper
To turn on the rear wiper, first locate the wiper control stalk on the steering column. It is usually located on the left-hand side of the steering wheel. The wiper control stalk has a knob or lever that can be moved in different directions to control the wipers.
To turn on the rear wiper, move the wiper control stalk to the “Rear” position. This will activate the rear wiper and it will begin to wipe the rear window.
The rear wiper can be set to different speeds. To change the speed, simply turn the knob or lever on the wiper control stalk to the desired speed setting.
People Also Ask About How To Turn On Rear Wiper
How do I turn off the rear wiper?
To turn off the rear wiper, simply move the wiper control stalk back to the “Off” position.
Why is my rear wiper not working?
There are a few reasons why your rear wiper may not be working. The most common reason is that the wiper fuse is blown. To check the wiper fuse, open the fuse box and locate the wiper fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
How do I replace the rear wiper blade?
To replace the rear wiper blade, first lift the rear wiper arm away from the rear window. Then, locate the tab that holds the wiper blade in place. Press the tab and slide the wiper blade off of the wiper arm.
To install the new wiper blade, simply slide it onto the wiper arm and snap it into place.
