why do my Tesla Model S Original (2012-2020) wipers stop working intermittently?

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

577 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix intermittent wiper issues on Tesla Model S (2012-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Electrical

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components to prevent shock or short circuits.
•Ensure the vehicle is in a safe and stable position before performing repairs.

Symptoms

•Wipers do not operate at all or only function sporadically
•Wiper control stalk does not respond as expected
•Wipers may work in certain modes (e.g., intermittent) but fail in others (e.g., continuous)
•Possible accompanying error messages on the dashboard related to wiper function
•Wipers may work after a vehicle restart but fail again after some time

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the wiper control stalk for physical damage or wear.
2
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored error codes related to wiper operation.
3
Visual inspection of the wiper motor and wiring harness for corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
4
Test the wiper motor by applying direct power to see if it operates consistently.
5
Check the fuses related to the windshield wiper system for any blown fuses.
6
Inspect the body control module (BCM) for any software issues or faults.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Torque wrench
•Socket set
•Pry tool
•Multimeter
•OBD-II scanner
•Fuse puller

Parts Required

•Wiper control stalk (if damaged)
•Wiper motor (if faulty)
•Fuses (if blown)

Related Faults

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Symptoms

•Wipers do not operate at all or only function sporadically

•Wiper control stalk does not respond as expected

•Wipers may work in certain modes (e.g., intermittent) but fail in others (e.g., continuous)

•Possible accompanying error messages on the dashboard related to wiper function

•Wipers may work after a vehicle restart but fail again after some time

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the wiper control stalk for physical damage or wear.
2
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored error codes related to wiper operation.
3
Visual inspection of the wiper motor and wiring harness for corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
4
Test the wiper motor by applying direct power to see if it operates consistently.
5
Check the fuses related to the windshield wiper system for any blown fuses.
6
Inspect the body control module (BCM) for any software issues or faults.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts needed for the repair.
Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety during the repair process.

2. Inspect and Replace Wiper Control Stalk

Tools Required: Torque wrench, socket set, pry tool
Remove the steering wheel covers using a pry tool.
Unscrew and detach the wiper control stalk from the steering column.
Replace with a new wiper control stalk if damaged.
Reassemble the steering column covers and reconnect the battery.

3. Check and Repair Wiper Motor

Tools Required: Multimeter, socket set
Locate the wiper motor under the hood.
Disconnect the wiring harness from the motor.
Using a multimeter, check for voltage at the motor connector when the wiper stalk is activated.
If voltage is present but the motor doesn’t operate, replace the wiper motor.
If no voltage is found, trace back the wiring to the BCM to check for issues.

4. Inspect and Replace Fuses

Tools Required: Fuse puller or pliers
Locate the fuse box as per the owner's manual.
Identify the fuse for the wiper motor and inspect it visually or with a multimeter.
Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating, as specified in the manual.

5. Update Body Control Module (BCM) Software

Tools Required: Laptop with Tesla software or access to Tesla service
Connect the vehicle to the Tesla service software.
Check for any BCM software updates and install them if available.
Restart the vehicle to complete the process.