In short, you turn on Mazda wipers with the right-hand stalk on the steering column. Front wipers typically use LO, HI, INT, or AUTO (if your model supports rain-sensing wipers), with a MIST function for a single wipe. The rear wiper, if equipped, is usually controlled from the end of the same stalk. Details vary by model and year, so consult your owner's manual for your exact layout.
Front windshield wipers
The front-wiper controls are located on the right-side stalk of the steering column. Depending on the model year and trim, you may see labels like OFF, MIST, INT, LO, HI, and AUTO for rain-sensing operation. A small dial near the end of the stalk may adjust intermittent timing, and MIST provides a single wipe when pressed.
To operate the front wipers, follow these steps:
- Turn the ignition on or to ACC to power the wiper system in models that allow operation without the engine running.
- Move the stalk to LO for low-speed wiping or HI for high-speed wiping.
- Set to INT for intermittent wiping if desired; adjust the interval rate with the small dial or control on the stalk if your model provides one.
- If equipped, set the stalk to AUTO to enable rain-sensing wipers, which automatically adjust speed based on rainfall intensity.
- For a single wipe, use the MIST function by flicking the stalk briefly (the exact motion is described in your manual).
- To wash the windshield, pull the stalk toward you to spray washer fluid; the wipers will wipe as needed.
- Return the stalk to OFF to turn the wipers off.
Note: Front-wiper controls can vary by model and generation. If you don’t see AUTO or INT on your stalk, look for a small dial near the end of the stalk, or check the vehicle’s manual for your exact year and trim.
Rear windshield wiper
The rear wiper is controlled separately on most Mazda models. The control is typically located on the end of the same stalk as the front wipers, often labeled REAR or a rear-wiper icon. Some models offer intermittent and continuous rear wiping, and a rear washer spray if equipped.
To operate the rear wiper, follow these steps:
- Turn the end of the stalk to the REAR position to activate the rear wiper.
- Choose intermittent or continuous wiping if your model provides options; the control method may vary by year and trim.
- To spray washer fluid for the rear window (if equipped), use the corresponding control on the stalk as described in your manual.
- Return the end-of-stalk control to OFF when you no longer need rear wiping.
Because Mazda periodically adjusts the control layout between generations, check your specific model’s owner’s manual for the exact rear-wiper operation.
Common tips and troubleshooting
If your wipers don’t respond, check the following: fuses related to the wiper system, the wiper blades for wear or ice buildup, and the wiper motor relay. For rain-sensing wipers, ensure the sensor is clean and not obscured by ice or debris, and that AUTO is selected on the stalk. If you’re using a model with an advanced automatic system, a software update or dealership inspection may be required for persistent issues.
Summary
Most Mazda wipers are controlled from the right-hand stalk. Front wipers use LO, HI, INT, or AUTO (if equipped), with MIST for a single wipe and washer spray by pulling the stalk toward you. The rear wiper is typically controlled from the end of the same stalk with REAR settings. Since layouts can vary by year and trim, always consult your owner’s manual for the exact controls on your Mazda.