Hyundai Kona: Windshield Wiper/Washer / Rain Sensor Description and operation

Wiper Control System

When "AUTO" switch signal is received from the multi-function switch on the right, the integrated rain sensor detects the amount of rainfall. The sensor is installed inside the upper part of the front window for wiper motor control.

This system automatically controls the operation duration and speed of the wiper depending on the measured amount of rainfall even if the driver does not operate the wiper switch.

Detecting the amount of rainfall

The light (beam) emitted from light emitting diodes (LED) is totally reflected on the external surface of the windshield and comes back to the photo diodes. When there is water on the external surface of the windshield, the light is optically separated and reflected partially and the remaining brightness is measured by the photo diodes. Water remaining on the windshield results in the light being not totally reflected. The loss of brightness due to this indicates how much the glass surface is wet.

Dust on the measuring surface and other surfaces on the light path (surface of light emitting diodes and photo diodes, fiber optics, bracket, and glass surface of windshield joint area) weakens the received light.

Movement of windshield and bracket

Movement of bracket due to vibration

Damaged wiper blade

Operational status of rain sensor

When there is ice or foreign matter in the detecting area, integrated rain sensor cannot recognize the condition for operation correctly.

Rain sensor