How to Turn On the Rear Windshield Wiper

To turn on the rear windshield wiper, you typically use a dedicated control on the wiper stalk (the lever on your steering column) or a separate rear wiper button or knob on the dashboard or center console; the exact method depends on your vehicle’s make and model but almost always involves rotating a ring, pushing the lever, or pressing a clearly marked rear-wiper icon.

Understanding Rear Windshield Wiper Controls

Rear windshield wipers are designed primarily for hatchbacks, SUVs, minivans, and some wagons, where the rear glass collects more dirt and water than sedans. Although the basic function is the same—clearing the rear window—the way you switch them on can differ significantly between manufacturers and model years.

Common Ways to Turn On the Rear Windshield Wiper

Most modern cars use one of a few standard control layouts for the rear wiper. Knowing these common designs makes it easier to figure out the system in an unfamiliar vehicle, even if you don’t have the owner’s manual in front of you.

• Wiper stalk with rotating ring: On many vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and others), the rear wiper is controlled by a small ring or collar on the same stalk that operates the front wipers. Rotating this ring usually offers positions such as OFF, INT (intermittent), and ON.
• Push or pull motion on the stalk: Some cars use a push-forward or pull-toward-you action on the wiper stalk to activate the rear wiper or washer. For example, pushing the lever away may start the rear wiper, while pulling it may spray washer fluid.
• Separate rear wiper button or knob: Certain models (common in some European brands or older vehicles) have a dedicated rear wiper switch on the dashboard or center console, often alongside other defogging or lighting controls.
• Combined rear wiper and washer switch: Many layouts integrate the wiper and washing functions; turning the ring or pressing the stalk activates the wiper, and holding it further or pressing a separate pad sprays fluid.
• Automatic or “reverse-linked” feature: Some cars automatically sweep the rear wiper when the front wipers are on and you shift into reverse, improving visibility while backing up. This is usually a setting you can enable or disable in the vehicle’s menu.

Once you recognize these typical layouts, you can quickly locate and operate the rear wiper in most vehicles, even if the labels or icons vary slightly from brand to brand.

Step-by-Step: Turning On the Rear Wiper by Control Type

Although the precise labels and feel may differ, the basic steps for operating the rear wiper are consistent. The following sections break down the process according to the most common control types you’re likely to encounter.

1. Using a Rotating Ring on the Wiper Stalk

The rotating ring on the wiper stalk is one of the most widespread designs. It’s usually mounted on the right side of the steering wheel in left-hand-drive vehicles and clearly marked with rear wiper symbols.

1. Locate the wiper stalk: Look for the stalk (lever) protruding from either side of the steering column. It typically also controls your front wipers and sometimes your turn signals (though these are often on opposite sides).
2. Find the rear wiper ring: Inspect the stalk for a small rotating ring or collar, usually closer to the end of the lever. It will often display icons such as a rectangle (representing the rear window) with a single arcing line (the wiper), sometimes labeled “REAR.”
3. Identify the positions: Look for markings such as OFF, INT (intermittent), and ON or LO. Some models may use symbols instead of words, with different lines indicating wipe speed.
4. Rotate to the desired setting: Turn the ring from OFF to INT for intermittent wiping (useful in light rain or mist) or to ON/LO for continuous wiping during heavier rain or dirty conditions.
5. Turn the wiper off when done: Rotate the ring back to OFF once visibility is clear. In most vehicles, the wiper will complete a final wipe and return to its parked position at the bottom of the window.

With a rotating ring setup, the rear wiper is intuitive once you find the correct collar—think of it as a smaller version of the front wiper control, just dedicated to the rear glass.

2. Using a Push or Pull Motion on the Wiper Stalk

Some vehicles streamline controls by making the rear wiper and washer operate via pushing or pulling the same lever that controls the front wipers. This can feel different depending on the brand, so paying attention to icons and labels helps.

1. Identify the rear wiper icons on the stalk: Look closely at the wiper lever for small symbols of a rear window with a wiper blade, possibly paired with water spray droplets indicating the washer.
2. Test the motion gently: With the ignition in the ON or accessory position and the car parked safely, lightly push the stalk away from you or pull it toward you to see which direction starts the rear wiper.
3. Engage intermittent or continuous wipe: Some cars set the rear wiper to intermittent when you press or push once; holding the stalk longer or moving it further may activate a continuous mode or the washer.
4. Use the washer function when needed: Typically, a sustained pull or push in the direction marked with spray icons will activate washer fluid onto the rear glass along with a few extra wipes.
5. Release or return the stalk to neutral: Once visibility improves, let go or gently return the lever to its resting position to switch off the rear wiper and washer.

While this method can seem less obvious at first glance, it becomes straightforward with a quick look at the markings and a cautious test of the stalk’s movement.

3. Using a Separate Rear Wiper Switch or Button

Some cars, particularly older models or certain European brands, place the rear wiper control away from the steering column—on the dashboard, center console, or even on a panel beside the driver’s knee.

1. Scan the dashboard and center console: Look for a button or small rotary dial labeled with a rear-window icon (a rectangle) and an arc representing a wiper. It might be grouped near the rear defroster or mirror adjustment controls.
2. Check for multiple positions on a dial: If it’s a rotary knob, you may see positions like 0 (OFF), I (intermittent), and II (continuous). Turn the dial clockwise from 0 to the desired setting.
3. Press the button for on/off control: If it’s a simple push-button, pressing it once may start the rear wiper in an intermittent pattern; pressing again usually turns it off. Some models illuminate a light on the button to indicate activation.
4. Locate the washer control: Washer controls for the rear might still be on the wiper stalk, even if the wiper itself is on a dash button, so check the lever for any rear-spray icon or consult your manual.
5. Turn the wiper off after use: When the rear window is clear, return the knob to 0 or press the button again to stop the wiper and avoid unnecessary wear.

Dashboard-mounted controls can be slightly harder to find at first but are usually clearly marked and easy to operate once you know where they are located.

4. Using Integrated Rear Wiper and Washer Controls

Because the rear glass tends to collect mud, salt, and spray, most manufacturers integrate the wiper and washer operations so that cleaning the rear window is a single, fluid action—both literally and figuratively.

1. Identify the washer symbol: Look for an icon that shows the rear window with spray lines or droplets above it. This may be on the stalk ring, a button end, or a separate pad.
2. Activate the wiper first if needed: Rotate or switch the rear wiper to INT or ON if you expect sustained poor visibility, such as during rain or snow.
3. Press or pull to spray washer fluid: Use the labeled washer control—often a harder pull on the stalk, a push on the end of the lever, or a firm press of a dashboard button—to spray fluid onto the rear window.
4. Allow the automatic wipe cycles to finish: Most vehicles run several extra wipes after you spray washer fluid, helping to clear dirt and residue from the glass.
5. Stop additional wiping when appropriate: Turn the wiper back to OFF or release the control once the window is clean to conserve fluid and reduce wear on the blade.

With integrated controls, a quick spray-and-wipe sequence can dramatically improve rear visibility, especially in winter or on dirty roads where grime builds up quickly.

Brand- and Model-Specific Variations

While the broad principles are similar, different manufacturers emphasize slightly different layouts and labels. Knowing these tendencies can help you guess the right control in a rental car or a newly purchased used vehicle.

The following list outlines general trends across popular brands; your specific model may differ, so when in doubt, check the owner’s manual or on-screen help in the infotainment system.

• Toyota & Lexus: Commonly use a rotating ring on the wiper stalk for rear wiper settings (OFF, INT, ON) and a pull or push motion for the washer. Some SUVs add automatic rear-wiper-in-reverse features.
• Honda & Acura: Often feature a stalk-mounted ring with clear REAR labeling and intermittent/continuous modes, plus a pull-back or push-forward action for washer spray.
• Hyundai & Kia: Typically use a ring on the right-side wiper stalk with OFF, INT, and ON, plus a push/pull operation for the washer. Many late models offer rear wiper activation when reversing in rain.
• Ford: Mix of stalk rings and dashboard controls, depending on age and model. Some SUVs and crossovers use a dial on the end of the stalk for rear wiper and washer.
• GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac): Frequently use a knob at the end of the wiper stalk combining rear wiper speed and washer functions. Older models may place the control on the dash.
• Volkswagen, Audi, Škoda, SEAT: Often use a multifunction stalk where pushing away or pulling toward activates rear wipe/washer. The layouts can differ by model year but are usually well-labeled with icons.
• BMW & MINI: Generally integrate rear wiper control into the right-hand stalk, with a twist or push for activation. Some models also link rear wiping to reverse when front wipers are on.
• Mercedes-Benz: Many models handle rear wipers through column stalks or steering wheel controls, with context-sensitive functions. Icons remain your best guide.
• Subaru, Mazda, Nissan: Commonly use stalk rings or end-of-stalk switches for rear wipers and washer. Intermittent and continuous modes are standard in most SUVs and hatchbacks.

Because specific control layouts change over time and differ even within the same brand, treating these as patterns—not guarantees—helps you orient yourself but doesn’t replace a quick check of your exact model’s instructions.

Safety and Best Practices When Using Rear Wipers

Rear wipers improve visibility and safety, but like any moving mechanical part, they require careful use and basic maintenance. A few key habits can extend their life and protect your rear glass.

The following considerations highlight practical ways to use your rear wiper effectively without causing damage or unnecessary wear.

• Avoid using the wiper on dry, dusty glass: Running the blade across a dry, gritty surface can scratch the glass and wear the rubber quickly. Use the washer or wait for moisture if possible.
• Clear heavy snow or ice by hand first: Do not rely solely on the wiper to move thick ice or packed snow. Use a scraper or brush; forcing the wiper can strip gears or burn out the motor.
• Turn off the wiper before using car washes: Automatic car washes can snag a moving rear wiper. Always switch it off beforehand and ensure it’s in its parked position.
• Replace worn blades promptly: If the rear wiper leaves streaks, chatters, or misses sections of glass, the blade is likely worn or damaged. Replace it to maintain clear visibility.
• Monitor washer fluid levels: Rear washer nozzles share the same reservoir as the front in many cars. Low fluid can leave you unable to clean a dirty rear window when you need it most.
• Use intermittent mode in light conditions: Continuous wiping in drizzle or mild spray can cause extra noise and wear. Intermittent modes balance visibility with blade life.
• Be aware of automatic features: If your car auto-activates the rear wiper in reverse or with rain sensors, remember that unexpected movement is normal—but you can often turn the feature off in the settings menu if you prefer.

By combining careful operation with simple maintenance, you keep the rear wiper ready for when you genuinely need it, especially during bad weather or on dirty roads.

When You Still Can’t Find the Rear Wiper Control

Even with general knowledge of layouts and symbols, some vehicles hide their controls in less obvious places or rely on touchscreens and digital menus for configuration.

If you’re stuck, the following steps can help you quickly get oriented without guesswork that could distract you while driving.

• Check the owner’s manual: Look under sections labeled “Wipers,” “Visibility,” or “Instrument Panel.” Modern manuals often include diagrams that pinpoint the exact location and operation.
• Search in the infotainment system: Some newer cars include a digital guide or quick tips accessible through the main screen, sometimes with searchable help topics like “rear wiper.”
• Look for icons with the rear-window shape: Identify controls by the rectangular window icon; this is internationally recognized and more reliable than text alone.
• Ask a dealer or rental agent: If you’re using a rental or borrowing a car, a quick question at the counter or to the owner can save time and avoid distraction later.
• Practice while parked: Before setting off, experiment with the stalks and controls while stationary, verifying how the rear wiper responds so you’re not troubleshooting on the move.

Taking a minute to confirm the rear wiper controls before driving is a simple step that improves safety and reduces the risk of fumbling with unfamiliar switches in traffic or poor weather.

Summary

Turning on the rear windshield wiper usually involves either rotating a ring on the wiper stalk, pushing or pulling that stalk, or pressing a separate rear-wiper button or knob on the dash or console. The control is almost always marked with an icon of a rear window and a single sweeping blade, often accompanied by spray symbols for the washer. Because layouts vary by brand and model, the most reliable approach is to locate the wiper stalk, look for clearly labeled rear-window icons, and test the control while the vehicle is safely parked. Used correctly—preferably with washer fluid on dirty glass and intermittent mode in lighter conditions—the rear wiper significantly improves rearward visibility and overall driving safety.