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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace the windshield wiper switch?
Where can I get my windshield wiper switch replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my windshield wiper switch?
What happens if I don’t replace my windshield wiper switch?
What is the windshield wiper switch?
Can I replace my windshield wiper switch myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace the windshield wiper switch?

For a windshield wiper switch replacement, the average total replacement cost is $120 to $250, with $20 to $100 for parts and $100 to $150 for mechanic labor. The exact cost will depend on your specific vehicle.

How long does it take to replace a windshield wiper switch? A certified mechanic will typically complete the job in around one to two hours. Your mechanic will conduct a preliminary inspection to determine whether a replacement is required, then proceed with the full replacement.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for replacing the windshield wiper switch? How much do those parts cost?

If you need to replace your windshield wiper switch, you only need to buy a new switch.

The price tag can change depending on factors like the make and quality of the components you order, in addition to where you live. The windshield wiper switch may cost as little as $20 and as much as $100.

Some recommended windshield wiper switch brands are Standard Motor Products (SMP), ACDelco, and Dorman, and you can purchase them through online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto, or local auto shops such as AutoZone and Advanced Auto Parts.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

If you need to replace the switch for your windshield wipers, OEM parts may be a better choice. OEM wiper switches are made to fit your car perfectly, which makes them easy to install and use.

Aftermarket wiper switches are often cheaper than OEM parts, which makes them a more cost-effective choice, but they may not work as well with your specific car.

Where can I buy parts for my windshield wiper switch?

A windshield wiper switch can be purchased from a number of different places. AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts are just some of many auto parts retailers that stock aftermarket and OEM replacement parts, including wiper switches.

In addition, you can find a great deal of windshield wiper switches through online retailers like Amazon and Summit Racing. Before making a purchase, check to see if the parts you're considering are compatible with your vehicle.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my windshield wiper switch replaced?

If you haven't found a reliable mechanic yet and feel apprehensive about getting your wiper switch replaced, don't stress! Jerry's

GarageGuard™

is here to help. With Jerry's GarageGuard™, you can quickly compare costs at more than 2,500 approved service locations nationwide.

You'll get precise price quotes* based on the hourly labor rates charged by each shop, making it easy to compare diagnostic costs and other service charges. Additionally, reading actual client testimonials can help you make a decision.

Check out a few of our reliable vetted shops in the auto repair business below, and don't forget to download the app for quick and easy price comparisons while you're on the go!

119 Reviews

Insta-Quick Fast Oil Change

5200 Park Blvd, Pinellas Park, FL

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry

131 Reviews

Harrell's Auto Service - Owen

140 Owen Dr, Fayetteville, NC

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$129.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (910) 487-5550

189 Reviews

Viking Auto Electric & Air

4521 Sunbeam Rd, Jacksonville, FL

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$110

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (904)-731-5065

177 Reviews

54th Street Auto Center

415 W 54th St, New York, NY

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$191

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (212) 265-3120

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my windshield wiper switch?

Here is what you can usually expect from a windshield wiper switch replacement at the mechanic's shop:

Disconnect the battery: The car's battery will be disconnected by the mechanic before any electrical work is done to ensure safety during the replacement process.

Access the switch: The windshield wiper switch may need to be accessed by removing trim panels or covers, depending on the design of your vehicle.

Disconnect the switch: The mechanic will unplug the old switch's electrical connectors and then remove any mounting screws that are holding the switch in place.

Install the new switch: They'll then replace the windshield wiper switch, fasten it into place with screws, and reconnect the wiring.

Reassembly: The mechanic will replace any trim panels or covers that were taken off in order to get to the switch. Finally, the mechanic will reconnect the car's battery and check the wipers and any other relevant systems to make sure they are working properly.

What happens if I don’t replace my windshield wiper switch?

If you don't replace a broken or malfunctioning windshield wiper switch, a number of problems can happen that could put your safety and driving experience at risk:

Electrical issues

Reduced visibility

Windshield wipers stop working

Wiper motor damage

Increased repair costs

What is the windshield wiper switch?

Wiper switches, also called wiper control switches or wiper stalks, are electrical components typically mounted on the steering column of a vehicle to operate the windshield wipers. Using it, the driver can activate and fine-tune the windshield wiper system in response to changing weather conditions.

The wipers remove the rain, snow, dirt, and debris from the windshield, making it possible for the driver to maintain visibility and safety in inclement weather.

When should I replace the windshield wiper switch on my car?

If your car's windshield wiper switch exhibits any of the following problems, you should think about replacing it:

Wipers aren’t responding: There may be a problem with the switch if, when you turn on the wiper switch, the wipers don't respond or only work sometimes.

Single wiper not working: If one wiper works but the other does not when the appropriate switch setting is used, it could be due to a faulty switch.

Wiper speed issues: A faulty switch may be to blame if you're having trouble adjusting the wiper speed, or if the wipers only operate at one speed regardless of the switch position.

Intermittent setting failure: The intermittent wiper setting may not function properly or act erratically if the wiper switch is broken.

Dim or flickering lights: The dashboard lights that regulate the windshield wipers may dim or flicker if the wiper switch is malfunctioning.

Remember that these warnings may look different depending on the make and model of your car.

In the event that you experience any of these problems, it is highly recommended that you have a professional mechanic examine your wiper switch during routine maintenance. If the switch fails, your windshield wipers won't work, and you won't be able to see clearly or drive safely in inclement weather.

How often should the windshield wiper switch be replaced?

Your windshield wiper switch has no set lifespan because most switches in your car are designed to last as long as the vehicle itself.

These components may begin to wear out over time, compromising the wiper switch's overall functionality. You’ll just have to keep an eye out for any signs that your windshield wiper switch needs to be replaced.

Can I replace my windshield wiper switch myself?

The difficulty of replacing a windshield wiper switch varies based on the type and model of your car, as well as your knowledge and comfort level with automotive DIYs. You might be able to replace the windshield wiper switch yourself if you have some basic mechanical skills and experience working on cars. If you are unsure of your abilities, it is recommended to have a professional replace the wiper switch.

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FAQs

Is there a fuse for windshield wiper switch?

There is no fuse in the windshield wiper switch. However, a fuse in the vehicle's fuse box safeguards the windshield wiper system as a whole, including the switch. The fuse's purpose is to prevent damage to electrical systems from occurring as a result of an overcurrent.

Can you drive with wipers not working?

Driving without working windshield wipers is not recommended. Your ability to see the road and any potential hazards will be severely impaired if your windshield wipers aren't working. If your windshield wipers suddenly stop working, pull over to the side of the road and try to avoid driving until you can get them fixed.

In a lot of states, it is also against the law to drive a car without windshield wipers.

Where is the windshield wiper relay switch located?

Depending on the make and model, the windshield wiper relay switch may be located in a few different spots. The owner's manual or a mechanic can tell you for sure where to look, but it's usually in the car's fuse box or power distribution center.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.