To turn on the rear wiper, use the end of the right-hand wiper stalk: rotate the end knob to ON for a continuous wipe or to INT for intermittent wiping. On many trims, pressing the end of the stalk can activate the rear washer as well.
In general, Ford Escape models share a common control layout: the rear wiper is operated from the wiper stalk on the right side of the steering column. The precise action can vary by model year and trim, so this guide covers the typical steps and notes variations and troubleshooting tips.
Quick steps to activate the rear wiper
These steps apply to most recent Ford Escape models. They rely on the end-of-stalk dial and, where applicable, the stalk's push action for washers.
- Locate the end-of-stalk dial on the right-hand wiper control, which is used for rear-wiper settings.
- Rotate the end dial to ON to run the rear wiper continuously, or to INT for intermittent wiping.
- If your model supports a rear washer, press the end of the stalk to spray washer fluid on the rear window while the wiper is active.
Once set, the rear wiper will operate at the selected speed. If you switch to the front wipers or turn the key off, the rear wiper will return toOFF when appropriate.
Model-year variations and tips
Some older or base models may use a slightly different switch layout. If you don’t see a dedicated rear wiper setting on the end of the stalk, consult the owner’s manual or Ford’s online resources for your exact year and trim.
- Most recent Escapes (mid-2010s onward) rely on the end-of-stalk dial for rear-wiper settings (OFF, INT, ON). Front-wiper control remains on the same stalk but is activated by moving the stalk up and down.
- Some trims provide a separate rear-wiper switch on the stalk with its own OFF/INT/ON positions and may integrate with the washer function via the stalk button.
- If the rear wiper doesn’t respond, ensure the ignition is on and the wipers are not stuck in park; check for a blown fuse or a faulty motor under the rear hatch area if available in your model year.
For the rear washer: if your vehicle supports it, pressing the end of the stalk will spray fluid; hold briefly if necessary to ensure adequate fluid delivery. If you can’t get the washer to spray, the system may need service.
Summary
The rear wiper on a Ford Escape is usually controlled from the right-side wiper stalk. Rotate the end dial to ON or INT to enable wiping, and press the stalk end to activate the rear washer if equipped. Model-year variations exist, so reference your manual for specifics. If it fails to operate, check fuses, the rear wiper motor, and the washer system, or contact a dealer for diagnostics.
What can cause a rear wiper to stop working?
Mechanical problem
If you hear a buzz, it could be a motor straining to move a jammed wiper transmission or a locked motor gear. If you hear a grind coming from the wiper area, it could be a stripped gear in either the motor, the transmission or where the wiper arm splines to the wiper motor in the rear.
How do you turn your back window wiper on?
The switch at the end of the stock allows you to turn them on and select your speed. The first position is for intermittent wiping. The second is for a continuous wipe. And O is off for the wiper.
How to change rear wiper blade on 2011 Ford Escape?
Off. Then take your new blade it'll have a little hook right there that you just simply click in where that snapped off. And that's it of course you'll want to remove. The protective plastic.
How to reset wipers to park position?
And then you're going to go back inside you're going to shut the wipers. Off. And then wait a couple seconds. And then turn the car off cuz what it'll do is when you run the wipers.