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Home >> Ford >> 2012 >> Taurus SEL, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 2599 (Wipers System And Washer System) >> Description And Operation >> Wipers and Washers - System Operation and Component Description >> Component Description
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Component Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Wiper/Washer Switch 

The wiper/washer switch is part of the multifunction switch which is mounted directly to the SCCM. The windshield wiper/washer inputs to the SCCM are:

Windshield Wiper Motor 

The windshield wiper motor contains a logic module, internal sensors to monitor the wiper arm position, and a multi-speed motor. The logic module from the windshield wiper motor continuously monitors the wiper/washer switch inputs from the SCCM and the rain sensor when the ignition is on. Depending on the input, the wiper motor activates to achieve the desired request.

The windshield wiper motor is mounted to the wiper and linkage assembly.

Washer Pump 

The washer pump is controlled by the windshield wiper motor. The washer pump delivers washer solvent to the windshield (and the front camera lens if equipped with a front camera) when the windshield wiper motor activates the windshield washer relay (internal to the windshield wiper motor), which provides voltage to the washer pump. When activated, the washer pump delivers washer solvent to the windshield (and the front camera lens, if equipped).

Rain Sensor 

The rain sensor uses an infrared beam to optically sense moisture on the windshield. The intensity of the reflected beam is measured and compared to the intensity of the transmitted beam. If there is water on the surface of the windshield the beam distorts, reducing the intensity of the beam. If the beam is not reflected completely, it is interpreted as rain on the windshield and the windshield wipers are activated.

A gel-type lens is used as the interface between the rain sensor and the windshield. If the lens is missing or damaged, the rain sensing wipers can be inoperative. The rain sensor gel-type lens cannot be replaced separately on a rain sensor of this type.