2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Windshield Wipers

Having trouble with the windshield wipers on your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee? You're not alone. This year model is known for a few common wiper-related problems. Let's walk through some of the most frequent issues, potential causes, and, most importantly, how to fix them. We'll cover everything from simple wiper blade replacements to more complex motor or linkage repairs.

Problem 1: Streaking or Ineffective Wiping

This is the most common complaint. Your wipers are moving, but they're leaving streaks, smearing water, or simply not cleaning the windshield effectively. Before jumping to conclusions, let's consider the simplest solutions.

Possible Causes:

• Worn Wiper Blades: This is the most likely culprit. Wiper blades are made of rubber and degrade over time due to sun exposure, temperature changes, and general wear and tear.
• Dirty Windshield: Sometimes the problem isn't the blades, but a greasy or grimy windshield.
• Incorrect Wiper Fluid: Using water instead of proper windshield washer fluid can reduce cleaning effectiveness and even damage the blades over time.
• Contamination on the Blades: Road grime, tree sap, or other debris can accumulate on the blades.

Solutions:

1. Clean Your Windshield Thoroughly: Use a dedicated glass cleaner and scrub both the inside and outside of the windshield.
2. Clean the Wiper Blades: Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down the rubber edges of the wiper blades. Remove any visible dirt or debris. You can also use a mild soap solution.
3. Replace Wiper Blades: This is often the best solution. Luckily, replacing wiper blades on a 2015 Grand Cherokee is relatively easy.

   Tools Needed: None (usually)

   Steps:

   1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
   2. Locate the release mechanism on the wiper blade (usually a small tab or button).
   3. Depress the release mechanism and slide or unclip the old blade from the wiper arm.
   4. Attach the new blade, ensuring it clicks or locks securely into place.
   5. Gently lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.

   Approximate Cost: $20 - $50 for a set of quality replacement blades.

4. Use Proper Windshield Washer Fluid: Ensure you're using a reputable brand of windshield washer fluid that is designed for your climate. In colder climates, use a fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing.

Problem 2: Windshield Wipers Not Working At All

This is a more serious problem, but still potentially manageable with a little troubleshooting.

Possible Causes:

• Blown Fuse: This is often the first thing to check. A blown fuse will cut power to the wiper motor.
• Faulty Wiper Motor: The wiper motor could be defective or worn out.
• Damaged Wiper Linkage: The linkage connects the motor to the wiper arms. If damaged, the wipers won't move.
• Faulty Wiper Switch: The switch on the steering column that controls the wipers could be malfunctioning.
• Wiring Issues: A broken wire or a loose connection in the wiper circuit could be the cause.

Solutions:

1. Check the Fuse:

   Tools Needed: Multimeter (optional), Fuse Puller (usually included in the fuse box)

   Steps:

   1. Locate the fuse box (usually under the hood or inside the cabin). Consult your owner's manual for the location of the windshield wiper fuse.
   2. Use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to remove the fuse.
   3. Inspect the fuse. If the metal filament inside is broken, the fuse is blown.
   4. Replace the blown fuse with a new fuse of the same amperage.
   5. Test the wipers.

   Approximate Cost: A few dollars for a replacement fuse.

2. Check the Wiper Motor Connector: Make sure the connector plugged into the wiper motor is secure and free of corrosion. Disconnect it, inspect the pins, and reconnect it firmly.
3. Inspect the Wiper Linkage: Look for any signs of damage, such as broken or bent linkages, or loose connections. If you find any damage, the linkage will need to be replaced. This repair is best left to a professional mechanic.
4. Test the Wiper Motor: This is best left to a professional mechanic, but you can perform a basic test. Disconnect the wiper motor connector and use a multimeter to check for power at the connector when the wiper switch is turned on. If there is no power, the problem may be with the wiper switch or the wiring. If there *is* power, the wiper motor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. Replacing the wiper motor typically requires removing the cowl panel under the windshield.
5. Consult a Professional Mechanic: If you've checked the fuse, the connector, and the linkage, and the wipers still aren't working, it's time to take your 2015 Grand Cherokee to a trusted mechanic. They can diagnose the problem more accurately using specialized tools and knowledge. The wiper switch, the Body Control Module (BCM), or even a complex wiring issue could be the culprit.

   Approximate Cost: Diagnosis fees vary, but expect to pay around $100 - $200 for diagnosis. A wiper motor replacement can range from $200 to $500, depending on labor costs and the price of the motor.

Problem 3: Windshield Wipers Stuck in One Position

This issue can be related to a frozen motor, a linkage problem, or a fault in the wiper motor itself. In this instance, wipers will stop working and freeze in the up or mid-way position.

Possible Causes:

• Frozen Wiper Motor: The motor may have seized due to internal corrosion or debris buildup.
• Wiper Linkage Bind: The linkage may be binding, causing the wipers to stop abruptly.
• Faulty Wiper Motor Position Sensor: The sensor that tells the motor where the wipers are may be malfunctioning.

Solutions:

1. Inspect the Wiper Linkage: Check for any signs of binding, corrosion, or damage. Try to manually move the linkage to see if it moves freely. If it doesn't, lubricate the joints with a penetrating oil like WD-40.
2. Try "Rocking" the Wiper Motor: Sometimes, gently rocking the wiper arms back and forth can free up a stuck motor. *Do this carefully to avoid damaging the linkage.*
3. Tap the Wiper Motor: *Use caution!* Sometimes, a gentle tap on the wiper motor with a rubber mallet can dislodge internal debris. However, be extremely careful not to damage the motor.
4. Professional Diagnosis: If the above steps don't work, it's crucial to have a mechanic diagnose the issue. The problem might be a failed wiper motor, a faulty position sensor, or even an issue with the vehicle's computer system.

Problem 4: Intermittent Wiper Malfunctions or Erratic Behavior

Sometimes, the wipers may work intermittently, at the wrong speed, or stop randomly. This can be tricky to diagnose.

Possible Causes:

• Faulty Wiper Switch: The wiper switch itself may have worn contacts or internal damage.
• Loose Wiring Connections: A loose or corroded wiring connection in the wiper circuit can cause intermittent problems.
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues: The BCM controls many of the vehicle's electronic functions, including the wipers. A faulty BCM can cause erratic wiper behavior.
• Wiper Motor Pulse Board Failure: Many modern vehicles, including your Grand Cherokee, have a small pulse board inside the wiper motor that controls the intermittent function. This board can fail, causing unpredictable wiper operation.

Solutions:

1. Check Wiring Connections: Inspect all wiring connections related to the wiper system, paying close attention to the wiper switch, the wiper motor, and the BCM. Look for loose connections, corrosion, or damaged wires. Clean any corroded connections with electrical contact cleaner.
2. Test the Wiper Switch: A mechanic can use a multimeter to test the wiper switch to ensure it's functioning properly.
3. BCM Scan: A mechanic can use a diagnostic scanner to check for any fault codes related to the BCM. If the BCM is faulty, it may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
4. Professional Diagnosis: Due to the complexity of these systems, diagnosing intermittent wiper problems often requires specialized tools and knowledge. It's best to consult a qualified mechanic.

By systematically troubleshooting the possible causes and solutions outlined above, you should be able to identify and resolve most windshield wiper problems on your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional mechanic for expert diagnosis and repair.