When diagnosing a non-functioning windshield wiper motor, what does a 0-volt reading indicate?

A 0-volt reading when testing a windshield wiper motor indicates that there is an open circuit in the voltage side. This means that the power is not reaching the wiper motor, which could be due to a break or fault in the wiring, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning switch that prevents voltage from being supplied. A circuit must complete its path for electrical components to function properly, so if there is no voltage present when tested, it suggests that the circuit is not complete on the power side.

While other options describe possible issues that could affect the windshield wiper system, they do not directly relate to the scenario of obtaining a 0-volt reading. A bad circuit ground would likely result in a reading that might not be precisely 0 volts, but rather fluctuating or showing reduced voltage. Similarly, a faulty ignition switch might not directly affect the wiper motor unless the ignition is expected to control that system, but it would not specifically account for the absence of voltage on the motor side only. Replacing the wiper motor without diagnosing the circuit could lead to unnecessary costs if the problem lies elsewhere in the electrical system.