How Does a Windshield Rain Sensor Work?

This helps you to have better control of the car and ultimately – stay safe.

How Does a Car Windscreen Rain Sensor Work?

Rain sensor stands advanced among types of auto glass. There are many different techniques that automakers have experimented with to eliminate or substitute the wiper system. A rain sensor is a fairly recent addition to the windshield of a car. The technology has been around since the 50’s, however, rain sensors didn’t become prevalent in cars until the late 1990’s. Today, they are fairly common in domestic and foreign passenger vehicles and trucks. A rain sensor detects the presence of water on the glass of the windshield. The sensor then prompts the car to turn on the wipers automatically whenever rain is detected.

Mechanism Behind the Rain Sensor

The rain sensor is mounted beside the rearview mirror in such a way that it is in contact with the windshield. A small portion of the windshield is blackened to hide the rain sensor. However, there is a tiny view port which is not blackened and through which the sensor is able to detect rain.

Benefits of Having a Rain Sensor

It is very important for the windshield to be clear while you are driving not just for your own safety but for the safety of other people or vehicles around you. The visibility level decreases to a large extent when it rains. The wipers need to be turned on immediately to clear the windshield. The rain sensor detects rain and switches the wipers on so that you are not distracted with the effort of manually engaging the wipers. This helps you to have better control of the car and ultimately – stay safe.

Installing and Replacing a Rain Sensor

In order to detect whether your car has a rain sensor or not, you can pay attention the next time it rains and see if the wipers are getting switched on automatically or not. Rain sensor gel pads need to be replaced each time we perform a windshield replacement. If you’re not sure if your vehicle is equipped with a rain sensor, look at the photos below and if you still aren’t sure, just give us a call and we’ll help you. If all you need is a windshield replacement from a stone chip or some other object making contact with your windshield, you will not need a new rain sensor gel pad.