1997 Town & Country LXI Wiper Issues

1997 ALL OTHER MAKES ALL OTHER MODELS
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TOMLEW
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
my 97 town n country lxi has had wiper problems for about a year. First they would just go on for no reason, stay on for a couple swipes then turn off, otherwise work ok. Then , when in the intermittent mode , they would work at different speeds and patterns, while at the same setting. Now when I go to turn them off, they stop wherever they were at when I turned the switch. Is this a motor problem or a sensor or switch problem? Thanks
Feb 11, 2006 at 6:39 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
This can be very difficult to diagnose and expensive to repair. If I remeber correctly the computer controls the wiper function. The switch sends a signal to the computer then the computer sends the signal to the wiper motor. I replaced the switch first only to have to replace the computer next. You auto salvage yard will be your best friend.
Feb 12, 2006 at 2:41 AM

Suggested Repair

The wiper switch signals the computer, which then controls the wiper motor. Replace the wiper switch first; if the problem remains, the computer may also need replacement. A salvage yard is a practical source for used parts because this repair can be difficult and expensive.

Conversation Summary

A 1997 Town & Country LXI has had worsening wiper problems: the wipers sometimes start on their own, run at inconsistent speeds and patterns in intermittent mode, and now stop wherever they are instead of parking when switched off. The owner asked whether the motor, a sensor, or the switch is at fault. The expert said the computer controls wiper operation, with the switch signaling the computer and the computer signaling the motor. In a similar case, replacing the switch was not enough and the computer also had to be replaced; a salvage yard was recommended for parts.

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