Why doesn't the rear wiper work in 1998 Ford windstar?

Answer 1

Occasionally the wiper motor will seize up and stop working. I just solved the rear wiper problem today. The door latches on the tailgate of the Windstar have sensors in them. If the sensors aren't working the circuitry thinks the tailgate is open and won't turn on the wipers.

Whether you have to change the wiper motor or not you have to remove the panel on the inside.

It is simple, unscrew the loop closure from the inside.

Get something flat and thin, slide it under the edge of the panel, get your fingers inside and sharply pull down, the panel will pop off.

You can see the wires running to the tailgate latches.

Because the drivers side gets more road grim do this side first.

Reach in and disconnect the connection clip unplugging the sensor.

Close the tailgate and try the rear wiper.

If it doesn't work, disconnect the passenger side and try the wiper again.

When you go to reinstall the panel cover on the tailgate, remove all the little plastic plugs from the holes in the tailgate and put them in the slots on the panel. A pair of pliers helps remove them. Slide panel over manual door lock button and push up on panel and it will snap in place. You may have to give it a hammer with the palm of your hand.

Hope this helps.

Worked for me.