Working windshield wipers are vital for driver visibility. The vehicle is considered unsafe if the wipers don't work. The front wiper motor and the wiper transmission mechanism (linkage) are installed below the windshield, under the cowl panel cover.
When you turn the wiper on, the wiper switch sends the signal to the control module. The control module operates the wiper relay. The relay sends 12-volt power to the wiper motor. Wiper transmission mechanismWiper transmission mechanism (linkage).The motor rotates a little arm (see the diagram) that through links moves the wiper arms. Read more details below.
If your wipers don't work, your mechanic or dealer will need to diagnose the problem first, then order the part that has failed. This means there is a chance your car won't be repaired on the same day. The repair cost depends on the problem. Diagnosing wiper motor problems is not very difficult, please read further. We also found several recalls related to windshield wipers.
Working windshield wipers are important for safe driving. Several manufacturers have issued recalls related to the wiper system and possibly more recalls will come in the future. This means, if you have to pay for wiper motor repairs, keep the receipt. If there is a recall, you can apply for reimbursement. Here are the recalls we found. To check if your car has a recall, visit Safercar.gov.
Chrysler issued the safety recall K24 for the 2008 Jeep Liberty.
Honda recalled the 2003 4-door Honda Accord for windshield wiper motor failures (service bulletin 08-043).
GM issued the recall 25302 to address corrosion failure of the front wiper transmission in the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain.
Toyota released a recall F0S for Wiper Motor Link Corrosion in the 2009-2012 North American RAV4.
Mitsubishi recalled the 2007-2013 Outlander for wiper motor failures (recall SR-17-003). Another Mitsubishi recall (SR-16-010) covers a wiper motor in the 2011−2015 Outlander Sport / RVR.
Subaru recalled certain 2010-2014 Legacy and Outback vehicles to replace the front windshield wiper motor bottom cover (bulletin WTK-71).