As the Volvo 400 Series ages, headlight wiper motors can fail, causing them to stop in wrong positions or move randomly on their own. System removal is often more economical than replacing old motors.

As the wiper motor wears or its internal limit switch fails, the wiper doesn't know its correct park position. This can result in the wiper remaining upright or moving randomly whenever ignition power is applied. In winter, frozen wipers can burn out the motor or cause a short circuit.

Usually not, if you want to use the windshield washer. In the Volvo 400 Series (FL models), fuse number 6 often controls the entire wash system: a common wash pump and all three wiper motors (headlights + windshield). If you remove the fuse, pulling the stalk does nothing — not even windshield wash fluid comes out.

If you want to remove the headlight washers in compliance with inspection requirements, disconnecting the electrics alone is insufficient, as stationary wipers must be functional by regulation. The recommended approach is to remove the entire mechanism: Electrical disconnection: Disconnect connectors directly from the headlight wiper motors. Mechanism removal: Remove the wiper blades and motors from under the lights. Hose plugging: Disconnect the lines to the headlights and plug them so wash fluid doesn't leak out when cleaning the windshield. Tip: Do this when the car is dirty so the dripping fluid doesn't dirty a clean surface. Finishing: The holes in the bumper or mask area can be tidied with suitable plugs.

In enthusiast circles, there are reports that a wiper motor internal short or fault can cause the wash pump to get stuck on, with wash fluid continuously spraying onto the windshield. Disconnecting the faulty motor's electrics breaks this fault chain.

If the car has stationary wipers, they must function. If the wipers and blades have been completely removed, inspection usually won't result in failure (unless it's a newer car where washers are mandatory, e.g., with Xenon lights). For the Volvo 400 Series, removal is generally acceptable.