The Different Windshield Wiper Settings, Explained

Most modern vehicles offer these primary windshield wiper settings: Off, Mist/Single Wipe, Intermittent (INT) or Automatic (AUTO) rain‑sensing, Low (LO), High (HI), and Wash/Wipe; many also include separate rear wiper modes. These settings control how often and how fast the blades sweep to match conditions from light drizzle to heavy downpours, with additional features to clear the glass quickly or conserve wear.

The core settings on front wipers

Front wipers are usually controlled by a stalk on the steering column. Moving the stalk up or down (or turning a ring on the stalk) selects a mode, while pulling or pushing the stalk activates the washer spray. Names and positions vary by brand, but the functions are broadly consistent.

• Off: Wipers do not move. Some cars still perform a courtesy wipe after using the washer.
• Mist / Single Wipe (MIST): One manual swipe when you nudge the stalk. Useful for brief windshield spray or morning dew.
• Intermittent (INT): Wipes at set intervals; a thumbwheel usually adjusts the delay from long (light rain) to short (heavier rain).
• Automatic (AUTO or “A”): Uses a rain sensor (optical or camera-based) to vary wipe frequency and speed. A sensitivity control often fine‑tunes how aggressively it responds.
• Low (LO): Continuous wiping at a steady, moderate speed. Good for steady rain.
• High (HI): Continuous wiping at maximum speed for heavy rain or road spray.
• Wash/Wipe: Pull (or push) the stalk to spray washer fluid and trigger several wipes; release to stop. Holding longer often adds extra wipes.
• Speed‑sensitive wipe (if equipped): Automatically quickens the intermittent rate as vehicle speed rises, and slows it in traffic.

Together, these modes let you match wipe behavior to precipitation intensity and driving speed, while minimizing blade wear and distracting chatter.

Rear wiper settings (if equipped)

Hatchbacks, SUVs, and wagons typically provide a separate control—often a twist ring on the wiper stalk or a dashboard switch—for the rear window. Rear systems are simpler but include key functions for clearing spray and grime.

• Off: Rear wiper remains parked.
• Intermittent (INT): Periodic swipes to keep the rear glass clear of light mist or road spray.
• On / Continuous: Constant wiping for sustained rain.
• Rear Wash/Wipe: Press or twist and hold to spray the rear nozzle and trigger several wipes.
• Auto rear wipe in Reverse (if equipped): When the front wipers are on and you select Reverse, the rear wiper may swipe automatically to improve visibility.

Because the rear window collects grime quickly, using the intermittent or wash function helps maintain a clear view with minimal blade use.

Symbols and labels you may see

Automakers use icons and abbreviations to identify wiper modes. Recognizing them makes it easier to find the right setting quickly while driving.

• INT: Intermittent wipe with adjustable delay.
• AUTO / “A” with raindrop icon: Rain‑sensing automatic mode.
• LO / HI: Continuous low or high speed.
• Arc with spray drops: Washer function for front or rear (direction depends on control).
• Rear window rectangle with wiper icon: Rear wiper controls.
• Defrost/defog vs. heated wiper park: A window with wavy arrows is defrost; a small grid at the base of the windshield may indicate a heated wiper park area (if fitted).

Labeling can vary by region and brand, but the underlying functions are standardized enough that these icons are broadly recognizable.

Choosing the right setting for conditions

Selecting the appropriate mode improves visibility and reduces distraction. Use these common scenarios as a guide and adjust based on how quickly drops accumulate on the glass.

1. Light mist or drizzle: Use Mist/Single Wipe or INT with a long delay; AUTO on low sensitivity also works.
2. Steady rain: Use LO or AUTO with medium sensitivity; adjust if droplets begin to accumulate.
3. Heavy rain or highway spray: Switch to HI for maximum clearing; consider turning off AUTO if it hesitates.
4. Sudden splash (passing trucks): Use Wash/Wipe if needed; HI can help until the view clears.
5. Cold, slushy, or snowy conditions: Clear ice first, then use LO; avoid HI if blades are dragging or the windshield is not fully defrosted.
6. Stop‑and‑go traffic: INT or AUTO works well; speed‑sensitive systems will often adjust for you.
7. Dirty windshield without rain: Use Wash/Wipe; don’t run wipers dry on dusty glass.

Reassess every few minutes as weather and speed change; the best setting is the one that keeps the view clear without constant blade chatter or smearing.

Tips and cautions for safe, quiet operation

A few good habits will extend blade life and prevent damage to the wiper motor and linkage while keeping your windshield clear.

• Never run wipers on a dry, gritty windshield—use washer fluid first to prevent scratching.
• Use proper washer fluid for your climate; winter blends resist freezing and help de-ice light frost.
• Replace blades about every 6–12 months (or when streaking, skipping, or noise appears); consider winter blades in snowy regions.
• De‑ice the windshield and free the blades before switching wipers on; stuck blades can strip linkages or blow fuses.
• Clean the glass and rubber with mild washer fluid or glass cleaner to reduce chatter.
• Keep the rain sensor area (behind the rearview mirror) clean; oil or stickers can confuse AUTO mode.
• If AUTO behaves unpredictably, switch to INT/LO as conditions demand—manual control is always acceptable.
• Know the service/maintenance position if your car has hidden wipers; it eases blade changes and prevents hood damage.

Simple maintenance and the right fluid go a long way toward quiet, effective wiping and better visibility in bad weather.

Quick troubleshooting

If your wipers aren’t performing as expected, these common symptoms and checks can help you decide what to do next.

• Streaks or haze: Clean the blade edge and glass; replace blades if worn or nicked.
• Chatter or skipping: Clean glass, ensure correct arm pressure, and try a lower speed; replace hardened blades.
• Slow or weak movement: Check for ice buildup; inspect the fuse and battery voltage; motor or linkage may need service.
• One wiper not moving or misaligned: Possible loose nut or damaged linkage—stop using and have it repaired.
• No washer spray: Refill reservoir, check for frozen fluid, clogged nozzles, or a failed pump/fuse.
• Won’t turn off or random wipes: Faulty switch, relay, or rain sensor; try disabling AUTO and seek service if persistent.

Addressing minor issues early often prevents costlier repairs and keeps visibility reliable when you need it most.

Summary

Windshield wiper systems typically include Off, Mist, Intermittent or Auto, Low, High, and Wash/Wipe modes, with separate rear controls on many vehicles. Intermittent and Auto modes tailor wipe timing for light rain, while Low and High handle steady to heavy precipitation. Use washer fluid to avoid dry wiping, maintain clean glass and healthy blades, and switch to manual control anytime Auto doesn’t match conditions.

What do intermittent wipers mean?

Intermittent wipers are a car feature that makes the windshield wipers wipe at specific intervals, pausing between each sweep instead of running continuously. This function is ideal for light rain or mist, as it provides a controlled cleaning without keeping the wipers running at full speed. Most systems allow you to adjust the pause time, and some advanced models have a sensor that automatically adjusts the frequency based on the amount of rain on the windshield.
 
This video demonstrates how to use intermittent and rear wipers: 59sHondaYouTube · Apr 24, 2023
How they work

• Interval Control: In this setting, the wiper motor receives pulses of current. The system then waits for a set amount of time before sending the next pulse. 
• Self-Parking: After completing a sweep, a self-parking facility brings the wipers to their resting position until the next pulse arrives. 
• Adjustment: The control stalk typically has an adjustment ring or knob that allows you to change the delay between wipes. 
• Sensitivity: Some advanced systems, often labeled “AUTO,” use a rain sensor below the rearview mirror to detect rainfall and adjust the wiper frequency automatically. 

When to use them

• Light rain: The most common scenario for intermittent wipers. 
• Mist or drizzle: Provides gentle cleaning without constantly wiping. 
• Conditions that change: The ability to adjust the frequency helps you keep the windshield clear as the intensity of rain changes. 

Important considerations

• Don’t use on a dry windshield: Opens in new tabOperating wipers on a dry windshield can damage the wiper blades and scratch the glass. 
• Consider the weather: Opens in new tabIn heavy rain, you’ll likely need to switch to the low or high-speed setting for continuous cleaning. 
• Cold weather: Opens in new tabIn cold weather, blades can freeze to the windshield. Use the defroster to warm the windshield before activating the wipers to prevent damage. 

This video explains how to use intermittent wipers on a car: 59sHondaYouTube · Jul 29, 2022

What are the settings on windshield wipers?

So let’s get started. Now the intermittent mode can be adjusted by moving the lever up or. Down. So by pushing it up. Once we’ll activate the low setting.

How to control windshield wiper speed?

To use your wipers. Make sure the ignition is on. Reach behind the right side of the steering wheel.

What are the three types of windshield wipers?

Wiper blades generally come in one of three different styles: ‘conventional’, ‘flat’, and ‘hybrid’. Conventional wipers have an articulated metal frame with the blade attached, whereas flat wipers contain a thick rubber blade with a connection block in the middle.