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Windscreen Wiper Motor Replacement
Typical Cost: Medium
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on part availability
What does a windscreen wiper motor do?
The windscreen wiper motor powers the wiper arm(s) to make them move across the glass to clear the water and debris from it using the wiper blades.
The connection to the arms(s) is either direct or via a windscreen wiper linkage.
How does the windscreen wiper motor work and what are the components?
The wiper motor is a powerful but small electric motor that is switched on by the driver either using the column mounted wiper stalk or by a separate switch. Some vehicles are equipped with rain sensing devices that will switch the motor on automatically for the driver.
Power is fed to the wiper motor through a fuse and a relay and depending on the switch position can produce intermittent wipes, standard speed wipes or fast wipes depending on the requirements of the conditions.
Typical symptoms that require a windscreen wiper motor to be replaced.
Usually the windscreen wiper will completely stop working, in other words it will not work on any speed. If you switch the wipers to the on position and cannot hear any sound from the area close to the screen, it's pretty much going to be a fault with the motor or at least the fuse that covers it.
Some makes, such as Peugeot/Citroen have common faults with the column switches as well, which can have the same outcome, but the mechanic will be able to tell fairly quickly if this is the case.
Another indication of a failing windscreen wiper motor is then the wipers themselves either move jerkily or slowly across the screen.
What happens during a windscreen wiper motor replacement?
Changing a windscreen wiper motor is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the windscreen wiper system.
- Carry out checks to determine the exact fault in the electrical system.
- Will replace the windscreen wiper motor if required.
- Advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
- Test the windscreen's wiper system to ensure it works correctly.
- If necessary, make adjustments to the blade parking and swept area position.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake pads to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the windscreen wiper motor
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Front wiper motor replacement
Rear wiper motor replacement
Associated repairs
Windscreen wiper blades (front - all) replacement
Wiper blade replacement - rear
Wiper linkage replacement
Windscreen/wiper washer jet replacement (both)
Front washer motor replacement
Rear washer motor replacement
How much does it cost to have the wiper motor replaced?
The cost of a wiper motor replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the wiper motor doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.