2008 Nissan Altima Windshield Wipers

Alright, let's talk about the windshield wipers on your 2008 Nissan Altima. While they might seem simple, there's more to them than just slapping a rubber blade on a moving arm. We'll break down the system, covering common issues, troubleshooting tips, and even some upgrade options for the DIY enthusiast.

Understanding the Windshield Wiper System

The Altima's wiper system, like most cars, is a multi-component assembly. It's not just about the blades; it's about the whole shebang working together. Let's go through each part:

Wiper Blades

Obvious, right? But there's more to blades than you think. The most common types are:

Conventional Blades: These are the classic, framed blades with multiple pressure points along the rubber. They're typically the cheapest and most readily available.
Beam Blades (or Flat Blades): These are newer, frameless designs that distribute pressure more evenly across the windshield. They tend to last longer and perform better, especially in snow and ice.
Hybrid Blades: A combination of both, often with an aerodynamic spoiler. They offer a good balance of performance and durability.

For the 2008 Altima, you'll typically find sizes around 28 inches for the driver's side and 17 inches for the passenger side. Always double-check your owner's manual or an online parts catalog to confirm the correct sizes.

Wiper Arms

These are the metal arms that hold the blades and connect them to the wiper motor linkage. They're spring-loaded to apply pressure to the windshield. Over time, the spring tension can weaken, leading to poor wiping performance. These are generally pretty robust, but can become bent or damaged, especially when iced up or from external forces.

Wiper Motor

The heart of the system. The wiper motor is an electric motor that drives the wiper linkage. It's usually located under the cowl panel (that plastic piece between the hood and the windshield). The Altima uses a 12V DC motor. The motor contains a worm gear that translates high-speed, low-torque rotation from the motor to low-speed, high-torque rotation to power the wiper linkage. This is crucial for moving the blades across the windshield with enough force.

Wiper Linkage

This is a series of connecting rods and pivots that transmit the rotary motion from the wiper motor to the wiper arms. It’s often made of metal and has several pivot points that can become seized over time. This linkage allows the single motor to move both wiper arms in a coordinated fashion. A worn or damaged linkage will cause erratic wiper movement, or complete failure.

Wiper Switch (and Stalk)

Located on the steering column, the wiper switch controls the wiper speed and function (intermittent, low, high). It sends electrical signals to the wiper motor control module. Sometimes, corrosion on the switch contacts can cause intermittent wiper problems.

Wiper Motor Control Module (or Integrated Control Unit)

This module (sometimes integrated into a larger body control module (BCM)) controls the operation of the wiper motor. It receives signals from the wiper switch and determines the appropriate motor speed and function. This often includes features like variable intermittent wiping based on vehicle speed or rain sensor input (if equipped). A faulty module can cause the wipers to stop working, run continuously, or behave erratically.

Washer System

While technically separate, the washer system is often intertwined with the wiper system. It consists of:

Washer Fluid Reservoir: Holds the windshield washer fluid.
Washer Pump: An electric pump that sprays washer fluid onto the windshield.
Washer Nozzles: Small nozzles that direct the washer fluid onto the windshield.
Washer Hoses: Connects the reservoir, pump, and nozzles.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Now, let's dive into some common issues you might encounter with your 2008 Altima's wipers.

Wipers Don't Work at All

This is a serious issue, especially in bad weather. Here's a troubleshooting checklist:

Check the Fuse: The first thing to do is check the windshield wiper fuse. It's usually located in the interior fuse box (often under the dash) or in the engine compartment fuse box. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location. Use a test light or multimeter to confirm the fuse is good. A blown fuse is often a symptom of a larger problem, like a short circuit.
Check the Wiper Motor Connector: Disconnect the electrical connector from the wiper motor and use a multimeter to check for voltage (typically 12V) when the wiper switch is turned on. If you're not getting voltage, the problem is likely upstream (switch, module, or wiring).
Test the Wiper Motor: If you're getting voltage to the motor, the motor itself might be faulty. You can try directly connecting the motor to a 12V power source (carefully!) to see if it runs. If it doesn't, the motor is likely bad.
Inspect the Linkage: If the motor runs but the wipers don't move, the linkage might be broken or disconnected. Visually inspect the linkage for any damage or loose connections.
Check the Wiper Switch: While less common, the wiper switch itself can fail. You can test it with a multimeter to ensure it's sending the correct signals.
Consider the Wiper Motor Control Module: If all else fails, the control module could be the culprit. Diagnosing this typically requires a scan tool to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and specialized testing procedures. This might be best left to a professional.

Wipers Work Intermittently or Erratically

This can be frustrating. Here are some things to check:

Wiper Switch: As mentioned earlier, corrosion on the switch contacts can cause intermittent problems. Try cleaning the contacts with electrical contact cleaner.
Wiper Motor Connector: A loose or corroded connector can also cause intermittent issues. Clean and reseat the connector.
Wiper Motor Control Module: A faulty module can cause erratic wiper behavior. Again, a scan tool is helpful for diagnosing this.
Linkage Binding: A partially seized linkage can cause the wipers to move erratically. Try lubricating the pivot points of the linkage with a penetrating oil.

Wipers Don't Park Correctly

When you turn off the wipers, they should return to their "parked" position at the bottom of the windshield. If they don't, it could be:

Wiper Motor: The wiper motor has an internal parking switch that tells it when to stop in the correct position. If this switch is faulty, the wipers won't park correctly. This usually means replacing the wiper motor.
Linkage Adjustment: Sometimes, the linkage can be slightly out of adjustment, causing the wipers to park in the wrong position. Consult a repair manual for instructions on adjusting the linkage.

Wipers Smear or Skip

This is usually a sign of worn or dirty wiper blades. But here are some other things to consider:

Wiper Blades: The most common cause. Replace the blades with new ones. Consider upgrading to beam blades for better performance.
Windshield Cleanliness: A dirty or oily windshield can cause the wipers to smear. Clean the windshield thoroughly with a good glass cleaner.
Wiper Arm Tension: If the wiper arms are not applying enough pressure to the windshield, the blades will skip. You can try bending the wiper arms slightly to increase the tension, but be careful not to break them.
Wiper Blade Angle: Sometimes the blade holder itself gets bent. Check the angle that the blade is meeting the windshield.

Washer System Problems

If the washer fluid isn't spraying, check these things:

Washer Fluid Level: Obvious, but make sure the reservoir is full.
Washer Pump: Listen for the pump to run when you activate the washer system. If you don't hear it, the pump might be faulty. You can test the pump by disconnecting it and applying 12V directly to it.
Washer Nozzles: The nozzles might be clogged. Try cleaning them with a small needle or pin.
Washer Hoses: Check the hoses for leaks or kinks. A broken hose will prevent the fluid from reaching the nozzles.

Upgrades and Modifications

Want to take your Altima's wipers to the next level? Here are a few ideas:

Beam Blade Upgrade: As mentioned earlier, upgrading to beam blades can significantly improve wiping performance and longevity.
Rain-X Washer Fluid: Using Rain-X washer fluid can help repel water and improve visibility.
Heated Wiper Blades: In colder climates, heated wiper blades can help prevent ice buildup and improve wiping performance. These are aftermarket, but worth considering.

Final Thoughts

The windshield wiper system is a vital safety component. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are crucial for maintaining good visibility in all weather conditions. By understanding the system and troubleshooting common problems, you can keep your 2008 Nissan Altima's wipers working effectively. Remember to always consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic if you're unsure about any repair procedure.