An early spring snow storm has eliminated the normal functionality of my widshield wipers. An iceberg slid off the roof of my Jeep down the front of my windshield. After applying the windshield wipers, they didn't return to their "off" position (and assumedly tried to return to the "off" position until something failed). Eventually, the snow slid off and the wipers remained stopped in the middle of the windshield.

Now, whenever I turn on the wipers to intermittent, they run like they're on low. When I turn off the wipers, they stop when the switch is off.

So, my question is, what have I fried??! Looking at my Haynes manual, I can't decipher the components I should be looking at (wiper relays...logic controls...??).

If any of you can help me troubleshoot this, as always, I'd be greatful!!

Dave

P.S. It's a 98 Cherokee with intermittent wipers

There is a plastic box with two wiring harnesses that mount to it. It has velcro that holds it down to a piece of tin under the dash. It's just to the right and above the Left under-dash light. Really not hard to pull out and replace if it comes to that. Sounds more like your motor got mad at you for turning it on with snow holding it's wipers down.... Could have also stripped the threaded heads that stick out of the w/s frame or snagged the linkage up a bit....

Your wiring shouldn't be all that different than mine, but I don't see why they would behave like that....

Worst of the news you may face is pulling the top, dropping your w/s to the hood and getting a good look at the guts....

Good luck.

What's the function of the plastic box under the dash?

primarily, it's the intermit. wiper control...

Excellent! Is there any kind of troubleshooting I can do to this control module or should I just replace it...

I'd imagine that it was the same for several years before and after yours, The easiest way to test is to try it in a known working system or take one from a known working Jeep and try it in yours. That is the cheap and quick troubleshooting task. I haven't bought one in years and if I recall corectly, it was about $40 for a new one about 10 years back. I'd imagine you can call down to your local stealership's parts department and they will give you the price from MOPAR, you can then compare that to NAPA and get what you need for a price checking. I've had a lot better luck going to NAPA lately for parts than the others like autozone and advanced auto for prices and availability. Just ask if they are a chain or independent store. Try to stay away from the independent stores, they will jip you on warranties....