Windshield Wiper & Washer System Inspection Checklist

This windshield wiper and washer system inspection checklist ensures wiper blade condition, motor operation, and washer system functionality meet FMVSS 104 (windshield wiping and washing system) requirements and state vehicle safety inspection standards. Worn wiper blades are a leading cause of reduced visibility in rain and are required to be checked at every service. Complete this inspection at every oil change and as part of seasonal vehicle preparation.

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Every Oil Change / Seasonally
Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
Role: Service Technician / Quick Lube Technician
Total Items: 29
Compliance: FMVSS 104 (Windshield Wiping & Washing Systems), SAE J903 Wiper System Standards, State Vehicle Safety Inspection Requirements, OSHA Visibility Requirements (Commercial Vehicles), FMCSA 49 CFR 393.78 (Commercial Vehicle Wipers)

Wiper Blade Condition Assessment

Inspect wiper blade rubber element condition. Replace blades that streak, skip, or chatter - they compromise driving visibility.

Driver side wiper blade wipes cleanly with no streaking, skipping, or chattering?
Passenger side wiper blade wipes cleanly?
Rear wiper blade (if equipped) wipes cleanly and covers full sweep area?
Wiper blade rubber element soft and pliable (not hardened, cracked, or torn)?
Wiper blade frame and arm pressure evenly distributed along blade length?
Wiper blade-to-arm connector properly seated and locked in place?

Wiper Arms & Motor Operation

Verify wiper arm condition, motor operation at all speeds, and park position function.

Wiper motor operates on low speed - steady, consistent sweep rate?
Wiper motor operates on high speed correctly?
Intermittent/delay settings function through all positions?
Wipers return to park position correctly when turned off?
Wiper arms hold proper spring tension against glass (not floating off glass)?
Wiper blade sweep covers required cleaning area without contacting door seal or A-pillar?
Auto rain-sensing wiper system activates correctly in rain-sensing mode (if equipped)?
Variable intermittent delay adjustment works through all sensitivity settings?

Washer Fluid System Inspection

Verify washer fluid level, pump operation, and nozzle spray pattern for effective windshield cleaning.

Washer fluid reservoir filled (not water only - washer fluid required for cleaning and freeze protection)?
Appropriate seasonal washer fluid used (winter formula in freezing climates)?
Front washer pump delivers fluid when activated?
Rear washer pump delivers fluid when activated (if equipped)?
Front washer nozzles aimed correctly at windshield center/upper area?
Heated washer nozzles functional in cold weather test (if equipped)?

Visibility & Glass Condition

Assess overall windshield and glass condition affecting wiper effectiveness and driver visibility.

Windshield free of chips or cracks in primary wiper sweep area?
Windshield free of wax film, water repellent coating, or residue causing wiper smear?
No arc-shaped wiper marks or scratches on windshield from worn wiper frames?
Customer notified of any wiper blade replacement recommendations with reason?

Seasonal Preparation & Documentation

Seasonal wiper system preparation and service documentation.

Winter wiper blades recommended for customer in snow-prone climate?
Rain repellent treatment applied or offered (Rain-X or equivalent)?
Wiper blades replaced if customer approved recommendation?
Correct blade sizes (driver, passenger, rear) documented on repair order?
Washer fluid topped off to full level?

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Why Use This Windshield Wiper & Washer System Inspection Checklist?

This windshield wiper & washer system inspection checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for service technician / quick lube technician professionals, this checklist covers 29 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: every oil change / seasonally.

Ensures compliance with FMVSS 104 (Windshield Wiping & Washing Systems), SAE J903 Wiper System Standards, State Vehicle Safety Inspection Requirements, OSHA Visibility Requirements (Commercial Vehicles), FMCSA 49 CFR 393.78 (Commercial Vehicle Wipers), UK MOT Wiper Inspection Standards, India CMVR Rule 108 (Wiper Requirements). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Windshield Wiper & Washer System Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 29 inspection items across 5 sections: Wiper Blade Condition Assessment, Wiper Arms & Motor Operation, Washer Fluid System Inspection, Visibility & Glass Condition, Seasonal Preparation & Documentation. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed every oil change / seasonally. Each completion takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

Who should use this Windshield Wiper & Washer System Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Service Technician / Quick Lube Technician professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.