In adverse weather with bad visibility, the windshield wipers become one of your vehicle's most important pieces of safety equipment. At the heart of this windshield wiper system is the wiper motor, a compact electric motor typically located beneath the windshield in the cowl area, hidden under the hood. However, vehicles with rear wipers also have a smaller motor mounted near the rear glass. The wiper motor powers the arms and blades to keep your windshield clear in rain, snow, or dirt. Without a properly working wiper motor, your visibility can be severely compromised, making driving unsafe as you won't be able to see potential hazards, pedestrians, and other vehicles.

What Wiper Motors Do

The wiper's main function is to provide the power needed to move the wiper arms and blades across the windshield. When you switch on your wipers, the motor converts electrical energy from the car's battery into mechanical energy that drives a set of linkages. These linkages translate the motor's rotational movement into the sweeping motion that clears your windshield.

Wiper motors have evolved to feature multiple speed settings, intermittent options, and even automatic rain-sensing functions. For vehicles with rear wipers, a separate, smaller motor powers the rear blade independently.

Types of Wiper Motors

Wiper motors are available in various designs to suit different vehicles, applications, and performance requirements. Here are the most common types:

・12V Wiper Motor: This compact motor design is the standard for most passenger vehicles, as many car electrical systems run on 12V power.
・24V Wiper Motor: 24V wiper motors are commonly found in larger vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. These motors are efficient and provide greater power output, making them suitable for larger windshields and tougher operating conditions.
・Front Wiper Motor: The front wiper motor drives the wipers on the main windshield. It is usually mounted under the hood at the base of the windshield.
・Rear Wiper Motor: The rear wiper motor powers the wiper on SUVs, hatchbacks, and wagons with rear windows. It's typically smaller in size than the ones at the front.
・Permanent Magnet Wiper Motor: These use permanent magnets to generate the magnetic field inside the motor. They are compact, efficient, and commonly found in modern cars.
・Field Coil Wiper Motor: Field coil motors rely on electromagnets instead of permanent magnets and are used by older vehicles. Though less common today, they remain in use for certain heavy-duty applications.
・Universal Wiper Motor: Designed for a wide range of compatibility, the universal wiper motors can be adapted to fit various vehicles.

Maintenance

Although wiper motors are generally durable, regular maintenance can extend their lifespan. Here are some good practices to keep:

・Periodically clean and lubricate the linkages connected to the motor, as debris buildup or rust can put additional strain.
・Check electrical connections to ensure the motor's wiring harness and connectors are clean, secure, and free of corrosion.
・Replace blades every 6–12 months, as worn-out wiper blades or misaligned arms can cause excessive drag and overwork the motor.
・Inspect the seals and mounts as moisture or loose mounting can lead to premature failure.

When to Replace Your Car's Wiper Motor

Wiper motors will eventually wear out even with normal use. Here are common signs that a replacement is needed:

・Wipers Moving Slowly: If your blades drag slowly across the windshield, the motor may be failing.
・Wipers Only Move at One Speed: Loss of multiple speed functions can indicate internal motor wear or an electrical fault.
・Wipers Rest in the Wrong Position: If your wipers stop mid-windshield or fail to return to their base position, the motor gears or linkages may be worn.
・Humming Noises: If the motor hums without moving the wipers, it's likely that the internal gears have been stripped.
・Wipers Don't Move: This is the clearest sign of motor failure, as a dead motor would leave the wipers non-functional.
・Issues Alongside Burning Smell: Any of the above signs accompanied by burning odors may point to an overheating or shorted motor that requires immediate attention.

How to Choose the Right Wiper Motor for Your Car

Aftermarket or OEM

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are those made by your vehicle's brand or authorized manufacturers. They are designed specifically for your make and model, guaranteeing a perfect fit and optimal performance. Aftermarket options come from third-party manufacturers and can be less expensive than OEM wiper motors. Quality can vary, however, so we recommend going with OEM units if you're looking for a well-made part that's likely to last.

Vehicle Compatibility

Not all wiper motors fit every vehicle. To ensure compatibility, check for:

・Voltage rating
・Motor magnet type
・Application (front or rear)

You can also match the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with the part.

Installation Considerations

Installing a new wiper motor is not too difficult, although the level of complexity can vary from vehicle to vehicle. Some common steps that you'll need to take are as follows:

1. Disconnect the battery to prevent any risk of electric shocks while working.
2. Remove the wiper arms and cowl cover to expose the wiper motor and linkage assembly.
3. Carefully unclip electrical connectors and detach the motor from the linkage.
4. Remove the old motor and install the new motor, ensuring proper alignment with the wiper linkage.
5. Once the new wiper motor is properly installed in place, reattach the cowl, wiper arms, and battery, then test all speeds and resting positions.

In some cases, installation may require recalibration of the motor's resting position. If you're unsure, seek the help of an automotive professional to ensure proper function.

Where to Buy Quality New & Used Wiper Motors

You can find replacement wiper motors at car dealerships, Auto Parts stores, and online. If you're looking for a less expensive alternative, consider a used wiper motor in good condition. These are available at a great price here at BE FORWARD Auto Parts.