​Rain ​Light ​and Wipers Sensor Warning Light

The Bulb Check: ​Rain ​Light ​and Wipers Sensor Warning Light

​​​​​​​​​​​​​When illuminated, an issue has been detected by the computer and the systems will be deactivated temporarily. Typically the sensor is located in the glass of the windshield near the rear view mirror. ​This sensor can detect rain on the windshield and analyze the overall brightness outside.

The main function of these light sensors are to control the automatic headlights and windshield wipers. Some vehicles only have the automatic headlights but it is becomming more common to run both wipers and lights at the same time. 

When the sensor ​indicates that it is getting dark outside, it will tell the computer to flip on the headlights. However for this warning light, the rain sensor can similarly use light to detect when there is rain on the windshield or it can sense the impact of the rain hitting the glass. See your owner's manual for this feature.​​

​​What to Do: ​​​​​​​Rain ​Light ​and Wipers Sensor Warning Light

​​​​​​​​​​If the light is on, there is an issue and the automatic feature of the lights and wipers will be deactivated. However there should be no danger as you can operate these devices manually. 

​The most likely part that has failed and cause the indicator to light up would be the sensor in the windshield. This is something that you will need a professional to diagnose. Although when this warning lamp illuminates, it will usually send a code to the computer so it can be read by an ODBII scanner.