1999 Chevrolet Blazer: windshield wiper failure

Filed Nov 7, 2012 · Electrical, Lights · 140,000 miles · ND

1999 chevrolet blazer lt - multifunction switch (common problem!) is malfunctioning. Turn signal/flasher relay is constantly clicking whether signals are in use or not -- unless the brakes are applied. Good sign of an electrical short. The cause of this issue is the grease inside the switch, applied at the factory, running from contact to contact. This switch includes the wipers, cruise control, turn signals, hazards, and can also cause vehicle lighting (headlights, brake lights) to malfunction. Many cases include non-working brake lights! Others have reported smoke coming from the switch as the contacts are shorted by the grease. I inherited this vehicle from my grandfather, who couldn't hear the relay firing -- it is the only indicator inside the vehicle that something may be going wrong. There are no visible indicators inside the vehicle letting a person know their lights are malfunctioning. As there is no recall for this year of blazer (though I understand other years have had the same problem recalled), I will be replacing the switch on my own. Dealer quoted the price for the part alone well out of my price range (nevermind labor), so I'm going to have to shop around to get the vehicle in safe driving condition. Thanks for reading. I appreciate it!

Filed Aug 29, 2006 · Lights · LA

The only continuing problem is this: most cars have a few items that are typical failure points, and we've found one. The combination switch (turn signal, cruise, wiper/washer, flasher) on the blazer is at the top of the list. We've found that it's very common for the flasher relay (under the dash, right side) to start clicking endlessly and audibly while no lights are flashing. Turns out the blazers combination switch is the problem. It's usually either failure in the turn signal stalk, or contact problems with the emergency flasher switch mounted on top of the steering column. If you remove the shroud, you'll find the switch assembly and turn signal stalk must be replaced as a unit. I don't know dealer prices, but the part on the aftermarket starts about $140 and goes up to $250 or so depending on the specific model and options (tilt, cruise, etc). Labor will add at least another hour if you can't tear down the steering column far enough to do it yourself. This problem is so common that it's a topic of discussion on blazer and s10 discussion boards, but don't expect a dealer adjustment. If it happens to you, expect to pay for a repair. In some cases owners have been able to spray generous amounts of contact cleaner into the switch and stop the relay clicking, but it's a very hit-or-miss proposition and you have to be lucky to avoid replacing the switch. However, if this is the biggest problem you ever have with the vehicle, life isn't that bad! Also this same switch causing the brake lights to not work. Similar to what has been already recalled for the 2000-2002 blazers. I have no brake lights and it will cost me $300 to repair due to a faulty switch.

Filed Dec 5, 2005 · Lights, Steering · 15,421 miles · ME

Dt: the contact complained about multiple problems with this vehicle. The 4-wheel drive actuation motor was replaced. The heater core became blocked and was flushed by the dealer. The steering box and pitman arm were replaced. Also, the front wheel bearings were replaced. The headlights became dim. The rear windshield wiper stopped working. The dealer performed numerous repairs, and could not offer an explanation as to why these problems occurred at such low mileage. The vehicle is remained at the dealer awaiting repairs on the rear windshield wiper. Also, replaced loose front hubs.

Filed May 20, 2005 · Visibility · 70,000 miles · IL

My 1999 chevy blazer front windshield wipers turn on and off intermittently. They also change speeds on their own. When using the wiper fluid, the wipers continue to run indefinitely.

Filed Aug 5, 2003 · Visibility · OH

Consumer states that windshield wipers work intermittently.

Filed Feb 19, 2002 · Engine, Fuel system · IL

On several occasions upon filling fuel tank with gas, smell continues to enter into vehicle, took vehicle to dealer. *ak dealer tightened loose gas cap, advised consumer not to continue filling vehicle after pump clicks off, replaced evaporative canister and evaporative vent solenoid, fuel tank module, removed left quarter trim and sealed, removed fuel tank sender, and filler tube assembly, diagnosed fuel and exhaust system, dealer found body seams in filler tube assembly leaking fumes, cause still unknown, dome light stays on all the time, dealer replaced right and left door jam switches, heating and air conditioning now hot at times or too hot, dealer replaced rad cap and polished neck, serpentine belt noisy, replaced serpintine belt, wipers won't clear and are noisy, replaced wiper inserts.

Filed Jan 22, 2002 · Visibility · WV

Intermittently windshield wipers become inoperable, obstructing view of driver. A recall has been issued on vehicle make and modle; however, this vehicle is not included due to VIN. Please provide additional information.

Filed Oct 20, 1999 · Visibility · MD

Vehicle experiencing a ongoing / intermittent problem with windshield wipers stopping while operating or not working at all. Dealer notified, and informed consumer there was a recall. But, consumer's car was not included. Consumer would like to know from the federal safety agency why some vehicles are only affected by recall, and not all vehicles that have the same problem. Can the federal safety agency provide this information.