Rain Scensing Wipers Not Working

[Pixie1421]

I bought my 2012 XLT a few months ago and I absolutely love it. Since I’m in TX and it rarely rains, I only just realized that my intermittent wipers weren’t working, only to realize just yesterday that it’s because I have rain scensing wipers. The wipers will start when I turn the barrel but that’s it, no more movement even though it’s pouring. Today, I pulled the scensor off and cleaned the window but still nothing. I noticed that my scensor doesn’t have a “gel” pad like google keeps saying it should have. Could that be a reason or could it just be shot? Thanks in advance for any insight.

 

[deweysmith]

It should have a gel. A windshield shop should be able to get one for a few dollars and install it. Shouldn’t cost more than $35-50.

 

[Tim Fuller]

I was just fighting the same issue on my 2013. My sensor wasn't lined up with "lense". In the meantime, my worked on the traditional intermittent settings with sensor unplugged

 

[Pixie1421]

Would this work then? My husband and I are pretty handy and it seems like an easy fix. https://www.amazon.com/Auto-Sensor-Between-Glass-Windshield/dp/B00R6QKW2M

 

[deweysmith]

Yes, that should work.

 

[fitmanyard]

You must have the gel pad. If the windshield was replaced, this was poor workmanship. Apply the gel pad to the unit, AND NOT THE GLASS. This will help with the correct positioning around lens area, and minimize any air bubbles. Glass should be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol first. Dont try to take it back off if you see air pockets from the outside. Rather, try to give it as much sunlight exposure as possible for a few weeks. You only need moderate pressure to make contact to glass. I believe the gel pads are $20 or less. Ive replaced a number of these in my career, including my own 2011 Expedition. This comes from a retired Master autoglass installer. Just trying to pass along some helpful hints! Good luck!

 

[rollinstone]

Windshield was replaced as part of CPO checklist. After several weeks I noticed rain sensor wasn't working properly. A close inspection revealed that the sensor was slightly separated from the inside windshield. Called the installer and he made a mobile service call and reattached it, NC. Works perfectly, now.