Q: Why does my wipers cut on as soon as my car battery is on. For example when I push my unlock button on my key fob they come on and

asked by on February 01, 2018

Why does my wipers cut on as soon as my car battery is on. For example when I push my unlock button on my key fob they come on and I have to unplug them to keep them off. There is no relay or fuse, I have replaced the wiper twice and also a wiper switch and it doesn’t seem to be the wiper module because most Jeeps have issues with blinkers and lights with the wipers. Just curious, would love to know someone that will know the issue because I asked mechanics and they don’t even know. If you could find a wiring diagram just so I can look and see if it’s got a short in it or something.

My car has 126075 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The problem is most likely caused by a built in relay inside the TIPM or totally integrated power module or also called main engine fuse box. These go bad all the time and can cause accessory problems like you are having and the TIPM will need to be replaced and programmed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car shaking when I turn right
There is most likely a ball joint that has excessive movement and is failing. Ball joints allow your front wheels to turn back and forth. When they get excessive play in the joint, it can cause all kinds of clunks...
Power window stuck
If the other windows work, then the fuse is not the issue. The power to the window motor on the affected window needs to be checked when the switch is being operated, in order to determine whether the switch, or...
The key easily turns from lock all the way to the right with no resistance
The problem is not the ignition key cylinder but the ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-ignition-switch). If the internal steering column mechanism (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-steering-column-actuator) is broken, then it will not turn the ignition switch. The ignition switch will have to be removed to see...
Wobble when braking and speeds over 50 MPH
Hi there. This is typically caused by warped rotors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/why-do-brake-rotors-warp). When the rotors are warped, the steering wheel will shake when applying the brakes. This is a common issue. I usually measure the rotors to see if they are good,...
Air sucking into oil dipstick
Hi, thanks for writing in. If the crankcase is building up pressure that will not equalize, then you have a clogged crankcase ventilation system, such as the crankcase air filter may be bad. Have the PCV valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-positive-crankcase-ventilation-pcv-valve) and air...
Spike in costs around 120,000 miles?
Hi there. Your question of what to expect in service costs is difficult to answer. There are variables involved, whether the vehicle was driven hard by the previous owner(s), or whether the vehicle has had maintenance performed at the recommended...
Maintenance other
When routine service or maintenance is due the ECU activates this warning light to let you know. However, in most cases, the light needs to be cleared after the service manually. If you look in your owner manual, you should...
1987 Ford e350 rv cranks over but wont start and have tried everything and checked most reasons why it may not please help
At the age of your car it could be about anything, but the good news is that the engine in your truck is a pretty sturdy unit so I doubt you have major engine problems at just 96,K miles. A...
My car drives straight when I let go of the wheel, but my steering wheel is slightly crooked
If the vehicle alignment (camber, caster and toe settings) is in fact correct (within manufacturer specification), the steering wheel can be centered by adjusting the tie rod ends on each side of the vehicle. If the steering wheel is off...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Jeep Wrangler
With With some subtle updates, improvements, and increases in size, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler maintains the model’s familiar and rugged look and feel. While the style of the Wrangler may not have changed much, though, its function has definitely been...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Jeep Patriot
Those Those who love getting off road will often turn to a Jeep. The 2012 Patriot could be a good choice for those who want a quality vehicle for the roads, and when they decide to venture off the beaten...
Industry News for Automotive Techs: October 15-21
This week: home-brewed autonomous car, sneak peek at future Jeeps, scheming car hackers, Ram's off-road TRX concept, new turbo test kit from Lisle.