Does a wiper switch need to be replaced by a mechanic?

While vehicle designs vary significantly, wiper switches are often fairly easy to locate and replace. On many newer cars, wipers, headlights and other components share a multifunction switch, which car owners often replace without expert help.

The wiper switch is generally located in the steering column and covered by plastic. Before working with the steering column, owners need to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to make sure the airbag doesn't deploy. After removing the cover on the column, owners generally replace the switch using a screwdriver, although many require a hex or Torx screwdriver.