2003 Rear Winshield wiper intermittent problems

[Carlsbad]

In the morning when I get in my 2003 QX4 the rear windshield wiper often won't work. When I turn it one sometimes I hear nothing, sometimes I hear a bit of thumping like it is trying to start. If I drive 10 miles and try it again it almost always works. Any ideas?

--Jerry

[DAiNiUS]

I have a somewhat similar problem. When it's cold out then the wiper will not return to its original position - it gets stuck somewhere. When it's warm out, then there's no such problem. Also, even when it's cold out, after driving for a while the problem cures itself.

I didn't see anyone on these forums complaining about it, and I didn't bother making a new thread about it either as it's not the end of the world, but this issue does have me wondering what it could be. The wiper motor perhaps?

[Slumpert]

My first guess is the switch. Build up on the internal contacts are very vibration and temperature sensitive.

[Carlsbad]

How about a relay? Is there a relay in the wiper circuit? Thanks, jerry

[QX4ME]

How about a relay? Is there a relay in the wiper circuit? Thanks, jerry

I think there must be a reply. When I turn to the first stop (intermittent), I can hear a click then it starts to wipe, so it must be the relay clicking sound.