Nissan Repair: windshield wiper not working, nissan altima, auto part stores

Question
My Nissan Altima 1999 driver side windshield wiper stopped working.  The passenger side windshield wiper is working fine. Should i replace the motor?


Answer
Hi Candy -

If one side is working, then it cannot be the motor. Both wipers work on the same motor through a network of linkages. Try to move the drivers side wiper arm by hand. If it moves easiliy, then the plastic grommet for the end of the link broke off.

To replace this you will need to remove the cowl (near the windshield lower part), or just under the cowl, there should be access, once you remove the plastic cover over your firewall. Although the part to replace is very inexpensive and found at most auto part stores, the replacement entails some patience and a very flexible arm/wrist. Locate the link that has disconnected, remove the broken pieces of the broken grommet, grease up the new grommet, and press it in, sometimes you will need a plier to lock it in place. Connect the large side first, then press it on to the pin of the other link.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin