Wiper Delay Switch
Windshield wipers are primarily designed to keep water, sleet, snow, and even hail from obstructing the view of the driver by clearing the windshield with repetitive wiping actions. Most vehicles have multiple settings that can easily be adjusted to control the speed and functionality of the windshield wipers. During heavy rain or snow, a driver may turn the windshield wipers on high, in order to perform as many wiping repetitions as fast as possible and remove massive amounts of rain from the windshield as it continues to pour down. During light rain or flurries of snow, it may be more ideal to turn the wipers on a lower speed to avoid screeching or “jumping”of the wiper blade against the windshield, which can lead to wear and tear on the wiper system and an utterly annoying screeching sound. One way to maximize control over the wiping system is to install a wiper delay switch.
Reasons to Use a Wiper Delay Switch
Most newer automobiles have windshield wiper control knobs that can be turned and adjusted to various positions to control how often the windshield wipers perform repetitions. Unfortunately, some automobiles do not have this convenient feature, and would therefore benefit from the use of a wiper delay switch. Older vehicles, or vehicles without a wiper delay switch, would require the driver to assume full control of the periodic wiping action, particularly the specific delay between each wipe. This action is commonly known as pulsing the windshield wipers, in which the driver turns the windshield wiper knob slightly to initiate an wiping action. With a wiper delay switch, the driver can choose how often the windshield wiper performs a wiping action based on numbered settings on the knob.
Types of Wiper Delay Switches
There are several types of wiper delay switches available on the market today – full wiper delay switch kits (which include all of the tools and resources needed to perform a wiper delay switch installation), basic wiper delay switch systems (which include the wiper delay switch module, and occasionally, basic installation instructions), and factory issued wiper delay switches that are used as replacements for official factory parts. If you have a newer vehicle, then you'll likely need the latter type of delay switch, while those that are trying to modify or improve the functionality of their automobile may want to consider one of the first two types of wiper delay switches. Some wiper delay switches include a feature known as mist action, which allows you to initiate a single swiping action any time it is needed. The majority of wiper delay switches also have an LED light or indicator that helps you set the right delay time with minimal effort.
Typical Cost of a Wiper Delay Switch
The cost of a wiper delay switch can vary widely from $10-$300, depending on the compatibility and capabilities of the modification. A wiper delay switch with mist action will usually cost more, with prices ranging from $25-$30, depending on the retailer. Surprisingly, non-intermittent wiper switches, which are the opposite of a wiper delay switch, cost the same amount to replace or install, with prices being about $26-$35 on average. Fortunately, installing a wiper delay switch is relatively easy, so even people with little experience in being a mechanic can save themselves the cost of installation by following one of the many guides found online. Shipping and handling charges on a package containing a wiper delay switch will usually range from $5-$20, depending on the included components and whether or not it is a complete kit or the delay switch by itself.
