Buick Verano Wipers Dead: Common Switch Failure Fix

I had a similar issue with my 2011 Buick Regal about a year ago. Having some experience with basic car maintenance, I first checked the fuses but everything seemed fine there. The wiper motor appeared to be working when tested directly, but the wipers would not activate from the steering column controls. Like your case, the error code was present. After taking it to a workshop, they diagnosed a faulty connection in the wiring harness near the wiper switch assembly in the steering column. The repair involved replacing a damaged wire connector and recalibrating the system. Total cost was 95 Euro for parts and labor. Since then, the wiper blades have been functioning perfectly. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Have you noticed any intermittent operation before complete failure? Does the washer fluid pump still work when activated? Are there any other electrical issues, like cruise control or turn signal problems? This could help narrow down whether its isolated to the wiper system or part of a larger electrical issue in the steering column. The Verano and Regal share many electrical components, so the fix might be similar, but knowing these details would help provide more specific guidance.

Thanks for the input. My wipers suddenly stopped during a light rain, no intermittent issues before that. The washer fluid pump is still working fine, and all other steering column functions including cruise control work normally. Last service was at 119079 KM, when they did a full electrical system check but found no issues with the wiper system at that time. The fact that the washer works but wipers don't makes me think the wiring harness connection to the wiper motor might be the culprit rather than the wiper switch itself. Will have the shop check those connections first before replacing any major components.

Thanks for those extra details. Since your washer pump is working fine but the wipers arent responding, this does point toward either the wiring harness connection at the wiper motor or the motor itself, similar to what I experienced with my Regal. The rain sensor system in these models can also cause issues like this, but given the sudden failure during light rain and the error code, Im more convinced its an electrical connection problem. When my wiring harness was repaired, the technician mentioned these connectors can corrode over time, especially near the wiper motor where water exposure is common. One thing to check, do you hear any humming or clicking from the wiper motor when you activate the wipers? In my case, there was a faint click but no movement, which helped confirm it was a wiring issue rather than a failed motor. Also make sure to have them inspect the entire length of the wiring harness near the motor. My repair initially focused just on the visible connector, but they eventually found the actual break was further along in the harness where it wasnt immediately visible.

Thanks for all the helpful details about checking the wiring harness and connections. When activated, I do hear a very faint click from the wiper motor area, just like you described. This really helps confirm my suspicion about it being a wiring issue rather than a complete motor failure. I just scheduled an appointment to have the wiring harness and connections inspected, especially focusing on the area around the wiper motor where water exposure might have caused corrosion. The rain sensor system seems fine since it was working normally right up until the failure, so I feel more confident now about focusing on the wiring connections first. Will make sure they check the entire length of the wiring harness, not just the visible connectors. This could save me from having to bring it back if they miss a hidden break in the wiring. Really appreciate the detailed advice, it helps a lot when discussing the problem with the repair shop.