STEPS TO REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR

The process of replacing a windshield wiper motor varies greatly between different makes and models. Generally, there are a few steps to take to remove the faulty part and install a new one. 

1. REMOVE THE WIPER ARMS (IF NECESSARY)

Some wiper arms need to be removed if the pivots are through the windshield cowl. If yours don’t obstruct the cowl removal, then they might be able to stay on. To remove the wiper arms, remove the lock nut holding them in place. Then, use a wiper arm puller to separate the wiper from the splines on the pivot.

2. PULL THE COWL OFF

In many vehicles, the wiper motor is either in the engine bay or underneath the windshield cowl. If yours isn’t under the cowl, it likely has to come off anyway to disconnect the wiper motor from the wiper linkage or transmission. It’s normally just a handful of screws to remove, then lift it out of place.

3. DISCONNECT THE WIPER MOTOR

The wiper motor is attached with an electrical connector, a connection to the linkage, and three or more bolts keeping it in place. First, disconnect the harness from the wiper motor and tuck the pigtail out of the way to prevent it from getting pinched and damaged. Then, unbolt the wiper transmission from the motor. It could be just one bolt or nut in the middle, keeping it meshed with the gear on the motor. Finally, unbolt the wiper motor from its mount and remove it.

4. INSTALL THE NEW MOTOR

To install the new windshield wiper motor, begin by bolting it to the chassis and connecting the electrical harness. Before attaching the linkage, cycle the wipers once to ensure the motor stops at the bottom of its sweep. If you don’t do this step, its likely not going to be an issue, but it’s a safeguard from turning the wipers on for the first time and having the wiper arms move in the opposite direction and bend the arms, blades, and damage your windshield frame and hood.

With the motor ‘parked’, ensure the wiper arms are down in the parked position also and attach the wiper linkage. Then, install the cowl and fasten the wiper arms to the pivots. It’s a great time to install new wiper blades too.