Fiesta back window wiper

[RAS]

I have a "R" reg Ford Fiesta.

The back window wiper only works occasionlly. The boot release doesn't work at all. Any suggestions to what the fault might be will be appreciated. Thanks

[gouldc]

Try the contact above the bumper - you should see (I think) four brass/copper contacts just above the bumper, and i nthe boot lid, will be four corresponding prongs - they can tarnish and give a poor contact - try cleaning them and see if that helps.

[Pat Flanel]

I had that problem in a "T" reg XR2.
The thing was I did not open the boot often. After opening the boot and oiling the hinges it worked!!
I know that seems strange and the only reason I can think of is that it might earth through the hinges on to the main chassis....

[Grego2k6]

I work at ford and this is quite a common fault. 99% of the time it is due to a bad earth, your boot realease and rear wiper are both earthed at the hinges of the tailgate(the boot). There are 2 of them, if you look they are just 2 little bars, use a hammer and punch and knock them both to one side and oil them, then knock them back. If that doesn't work you will need to power probe your copper contacts if you haven't got a live you will probably need new contacts. But i am fairly sure it is your hinges.

[RAS]

Thankyou to the persons who replied to my problem. I have burnished the 4 flat contacts with wire wool, and the 4 corresponding telescopic contacts above. I have knocked the hinge spindles 2mm to the left, rotated them with pliers on their knurled ends. Knocked them back, oiled them all. Unfortunately the problrm is still there. My main reason for persuing the problem is my wife collects 4 ladies who play bowls. Which means getting out and into the car 12 times and opening and closing the tailgate 12 times every time they go for a match 2/3 times per week. I have a circuit tester, is that the same as a power probe. Any advice will be welcome.