Wipers only work when it isn't raining.

[Mister Bean]

Howdy folks. My mother owns a 240Z, though I can't remember which year it is.

Like the title says, the wipers only work when it isn't raining, so if it's dry out they work just fine, but then as soon as it starts raining they stop. Sometimes even just using the washers will make them stop. Snow will also stop them.

She has tried taking it in to a couple mechanics but none of them have had any success with it. Including an "electrical specialist" that she took it to. So I thought I'd give it a try since it's her only form of transportation at the moment. I've spent some time looking through the archives here and haven't found anything similar.

Any thoughts?

[beandip]

So as soon as there is moisture the wiper motor will not run ? Is this correct ? Does the fuse blow ? With no other information , I will offer a guess . Check the plug/connector on the firewall where the wire harness goes into the cowl to the wiper motor. Clean any corrosion , other than this it could be the combo switch . There is information , do a search on how to overhaul the combo switch. Sounds like a poor connection either power or ground , that moisture is causing further resistance causing the motor to stop. Vinegar is helpful to clean connectors. Hope this is helpful. Gary

[ALConfederate]

I know this is an obvious question, but ever replaced the wiper motor? My thought is that possibly you have some moisture wicking in through the shaft seal and interacting with some worn windings or a brush and causing a short to ground.

Likeliest though is a corroded ground, like Gary said. I would certainly check the motor ground first.

Dave M.