My 2001 SE has a wiper switch that, when the temperatures dip, will only work pulling the switch. (activating the washer jets). I am of the understanding the "lube" used in the switch goes bad and when cold won't allow the contact to be made in the end of the switch selector itself? It works fine when the weather is hot. My questions:
1. Is there a way to remove the selector end of the switch to clean and get some better lube in there? I noticed a tiny hole on the switch arm that may be a release pin of some kind?
2. Possible to get the switch arm off without removal of the steering wheel? Assuming option 1 cannot be completed.

Thanks,
Brett

 

Most owners replace the stalk switch. Pix attached from RAVE. If working in steering colum good idea to disconnect battery (air bag) when tinkering. Should be able to rotate wheel 90 degrees and have enough clearance to get at switch. Don't know if you would have much success with circuit cleaner.

That said, I have seen write ups for other styles of vehicles where you could take it apart in place. If you elect to go that path, please take photos of the steps and share. I suspect some switch parts might be more difficult to reach than others in the stalk (in the base vs in the stick).

Another option would be to install a new momentary switch, and connect it to pins 3 & 4 of the connector going to wiper motor. Wiring diagram from RAVE attached.

 

I have the same issue with my '02. I find if I turn the wipers to the hi setting, it works right away. Once the interior warms up, the switch functions as normal. I'm sure I will have to address this at some point soon before it completely fails.

 

The relay built into the fuse box can also stick when cold and cause this same issue. I'd break out the multimeter and verify the source of the problem and address it from there.

 

No need to remove the steering wheel, just turn it so the bottom (flat side) is facing the towards the switch, same thing for replacing the headlight switch.
You need a new wiper switch, this is common on DII's everytime it gets cold.

 

Good info guys.. Will post once I get into it. Try to get the wiper switch off the steering colum tomorrow sometime
Thanks.

 

Ok guys, thanks for the prior inputs... The switch is fixed and works perfectly.
Removed the switch, dismantled it, cleaned the contacts (original lube was like glue) reassembled, and put back into the disco. Took about an hour.
I will post some pics on the site later today...need to offload from the camera.
Easy sleazy.

 

Post pics please. Mine does this too. I had this issue during the summer and had the stalk swapped from an older doner Discovery (despite different part numbers the stalks interchanged perfectly) and it worked "better" all fall, but now that it is cold, there is a 10-60 second delay when I turn on the wipers until they function, except when pulling the stalk to clean the windshield, then it works fine "most" of the time even when cold.

 

Cayman...
I posted the pics in another fresh thread "wiper switch fix".