1999 Saturn SL2 Windshield Wiper Control

OLDBOATMAN

MEMBER
1999 SATURN SL2
1.9L
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
159,000 MILES

My problem is similar to the one involving a 1999 SL1. With the ignition switch in the RUN position, but with the engine not running, the windshield wipers work as intended -- single swipe, intermittent, slow and fast all function normally and the and the wipers will stop when the control lever is moved to the stop position. However, after I start the engine, when I activate the wipers by moving the control lever to any position, the wipers will not stop until I shut off the engine. Then, the wipers work normally with the ignition switch in the RUN position.

My problem seems to be similar to the problem described in your post on the 1999 SL1.

5 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

Can you please post the link to the question your referring to? We have alot of posted questions I have never ran across this issue the wiper motor is most common thing I have replaced with wiper issues. As far as the ignition switch the most common thing I have replaced and really only thing I have replaced them for is for the key minder staying on with the key not being in the ignition. We would have to do some testing with a test light or multi meter when it was inop to see whats going on.

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Sunday, January 18th, 2015 AT 8:54 AM

OLDBOATMAN

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3 POSTS

Here is the link I found. It deals with a similar range of symptoms.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/saturn-sl1-1999-saturn-sl1-windhshield-wipers

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Sunday, January 18th, 2015 AT 11:14 AM

SATURNTECH9

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So the wipers sometimes wont shut off when you turn the switch off? If so most likely you have a bad wiper motor. All the S model saturns I have ever come into the shop with that symptom was a bad wiper motor. But we would have to do some tests like were in that other post.

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Sunday, January 18th, 2015 AT 5:42 PM

OLDBOATMAN

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3 POSTS

Thanks. From the wiring diagrams, I think I can handle the tests. However, gaining access to the windshield wiper motor requires removal of some dash components as well as an exterior cowling at the base of the windshield. Unfortunately, I will need the car for the next several days. When I can take the car off the road for a few days, I'll do the tests and let you know what I find. I find that rebuilt motors are available online and I can check local parts dealers.

Once again, thank you for your assistance.

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Sunday, January 18th, 2015 AT 6:12 PM

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

You're welcome replacing the motor isnt that bad of a job removing the wiper cowl is no big deal. Removing the dash top you will see the screws on top holding it on. Also above the the passenger air bag there is two 8mm bolts also holding the dash top on dont forget to take those out as well. Keep me posted on what you find.