What is a car windshield wiper motor? How to replace a windshield wiper motor

Windshield wipers have been used as an addition to a car almost since the release of the first production vehicle models. The need to protect the windshield is due to safety measures when driving - “wipers” clean its surface, creating conditions for optimal visibility. Performing this operation requires a special technical device from the working elements, which supports the windshield wiper motor and the drive system as a whole. Despite its relatively modest dimensions, this is a rather complex system, which leads to malfunctions during operation and the need to replace some elements of the mechanism.

Design and elements of the windshield wiper

The windshield washer consists of a fixing unit, a brush and a pressure block. The fastening mechanism is removable and contains a pin and leash clamps. The functions of the connector are performed by the adapter. By the way, the stability of the purifier’s operation depends on how well it provides the connection. The pressing block directly carries out the movement of the working elements - it is a system of several plastic or metal arcs. A brush is attached to the edges of the arcs, which is in direct contact with the surface of the glass and cleans it of dirt and rainwater. The operation of the described design is ensured by the windshield wiper motor, which is controlled from the interior using a special handle.

Purifier management

The windshield cleaning system can be controlled in two ways - electronic and electrical. The last option involves manually changing operating modes. Under the steering wheel there is a special control lever that allows you to turn on the device, adjust the pause in the wipers and change the cleaning modes. But this option requires constant driver participation.

Understeering's shifter

The electronic control system is completely autonomous and does not require human intervention. The car is equipped with a special electronic unit and a rain sensor, which analyzes the cleanliness of the glass and weather conditions. Electronic control provides a range of functions:

• automatic switching on and off;
• changing the operating parameters of the purifier;
• blocking the motor in the presence of obstacles on the windshield;
• additional cleaning with windshield washer;
• preventing brushes from freezing when the engine is off.

Motor device

The electric motor in wipers is also called a gearmotor, and in modern versions it is usually a three-brush motor. The motor can have several speeds, while its working forces are generated by permanent magnets. The composition of this unit can be represented as follows:

• housing (for the gearbox and the electric motor itself);
• anchor, as well as the rear and front bushings of its shaft;
• output shaft;
• driven gear;
• traverse having clamps for brushes;
• felt ring;
• collector;
• permanent magnet;
• idler gear mechanism.

In some versions, the windshield wiper motor also includes protection systems - thermobimetallic fuses and overload protection mechanisms are used, and chokes with capacitors reduce radio interference.

Best winter wiper blades

Trico Ice

Blocking: ensured by a special “winter” design of the combination of frame and brush material. Service life: with a guarantee of operation from October to April, subject to maintenance conditions - two winter seasons. Aeromechanics: The asymmetrical spoiler ensures guaranteed release of windshield washer fluid, snow, ice slurry and crumbs. Ability to work in adverse climatic conditions: in winter it is ideal for any type of climate. Support: “Claw”, spoiler with asymmetrical location on the brush.

Advantages:

• reinforced design,
• Availability of adapters for all types of machines in the line.

Flaws:

• the need to have a summer model for these brushes

ALCA Winter

Fixation: uniform over the entire surface of the glass without distortion. Useful life: useful life – 2,000,000 steps up and down.” Aeromechanics: use of graphite coating. Ability to work in difficult weather conditions: dry snow, wet snow, blizzard - copes well. There may be problems with snow and rain (“freezing rain”). Support: articulated, ballasted with a waterproof housing with corrosion protection.

Advantages:

• quiet work,
• reliability.

Flaws:

• high price,
• the need for summer brushes.

Goodyear

Clamp: frameless, flexible, with reliable cleaning of the entire area in a wide range of negative temperatures, subject to preliminary clearing of ice. Length: Guaranteed for one season, up to three seasons in fact. Aeromechanics: determined by the shape of the tips of the surfaces being cleaned (vortex enhancement of the air flow at the ends) and the presence of graphite in the brush material. Ability to work in difficult weather conditions: The protective cover protects against ice and snow “porridge”, helping to increase service life. Support: spoiler, bayonet lock.

Advantages:

• don't push the whole first season,
• good combination of price and quality.

Flaws:

• The appearance of squeaks at high speeds.

CHAMPION Winter WX

Clamping: increasing the height dimensions also increased the clamping pressure over the entire surface. The new brushes also handle ice flakes. Shelf life: guaranteed – season. Indeed, two. Aeromechanics: effective up to speeds of up to 120 km/h. Ability to work in difficult weather conditions: thanks to the protective cover, snow and ice do not accumulate. Support: hook.”

Advantages:

• clean the wipers in case of snowfall,
• duration of the operation,
• availability of adapters for installation.

Flaws:

• long replacement due to a complex protective cover.

Rear and front washers

While driving, the car owner must have visibility from different angles and sides. Therefore, in addition to the traditional front wiper, there are also rear versions. In the first case, a double design is provided, that is, in order to increase cleaning efficiency, the brush has two rubber bands. The rear wiper motor takes on less load since it drives a single design. However, this does not mean that the rear models have a lower risk of failure - the frequency of failures is similar to the front ones.

In addition, there are “wipers” for side mirrors, but due to the complexity of implementing such systems, such solutions are gradually becoming a thing of the past, leaving the visibility functions to the classic versions of washers.

The rear wiper stopped working: repair tips

Let us once again list the key reasons why the rear wiper does not work: the fuse protecting the brush motor from power surges has blown, the wire has broken, the contact has been broken, the switch has failed.

First you need to make sure that the fuse is working. It may burn out due to a short circuit. This is easy to understand even visually, since the part will look burnt. The problem is solved by simply replacing the blown fuse.

If, upon external inspection, the fuse appears to be in good order, then you should check whether the switch is working. First you need to remove it from the socket, then connect the wires directly.

If the brush works, then the problem is in the switch. It needs to be changed. You should also check whether the contacts are oxidized or not.

Another reason why the rear wiper does not work is a breakdown of the electric motor gearmotor. It is quite difficult to determine this malfunction; it is better to seek help from a service station specialist. Typically the gearmotor must be replaced, although minor repairs are acceptable.

It should be noted that repairing a faulty windshield wiper is quite simple and an experienced specialist will fix everything in a few hours or minutes.

Possible breakdowns

Various factors can cause a windshield wiper motor to fail, leading to disruption in the connections between the brushes and the commutator, a wedge in the gearbox, unstable operation of the motor, etc. At the same time, the windshield wiper motor does not always require replacement, leaving the possibility of maintaining the working condition by correcting the position system components - this applies, for example, to a bimetallic fuse. Malfunctions in speed modes usually result from failures in resistors or switches.

Problems with brushes can also be eliminated by simple manipulations with the stopping mechanism - in most cases, their adjustment allows you to restore the functionality of the cleaning elements. Aesthetic problems, including squeaking, grinding and other unpleasant sounds, are almost always solved by cleaning the brushes themselves. In addition, dry glass also leads to unfortunate noise.

Why the rear wiper doesn't work: 7 reasons

Undoubtedly, if the rear wiper does not work, then driving a car in bad weather is quite dangerous. Next, let's look at the main reasons that can lead to the wiper stopping functioning:

1. Fuse burned out. A fuse is a part that protects devices and devices from damage. In this situation, it protects the wiper motor.
   If the rear wiper does not work, then first of all you need to check whether the fuse has blown. In most cases, this is what causes the windshield wiper blade to fail.

   We recommend reading your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure you know exactly where this device is located.

2. Wiring and contacts are faulty .
   Next, you need to check the contacts in the connectors and the integrity of the wiring. Over time, contacts may oxidize, which may be the reason why the rear wiper does not work well. In this case, the contacts should be cleaned.
3. The relay is faulty .
   If the wiper does not work intermittently, the relay may be damaged. You should check the brush in fast and slow modes. If everything is in order and it “stands still” only during intermittent movement, then you need to install a new relay.
4. The brush mount is damaged.

   Over time, the brush attachment may become loose. As a result, the windshield wiper may not work, since its motor is not able to move the swung wiper. To eliminate the problem, you just need to tighten the loose nut.

5. The windshield wiper control unit is faulty .
   The control unit makes it possible to change the brush movement mode. The most common cause of a malfunctioning steering wheel wiper switch is oxidized contacts. If during the check all parts are in good condition, but the rear wiper still does not work, then the control unit should be replaced.
6. The wiper motor is faulty.
   The brush will not work at all if the motor is damaged. You should check if there is voltage in the electric motor connector. If it is equal to the voltage in the battery, then the motor is working.

   Also, the blades in the windshield wiper motor can wear out - they are easy to change. But if the winding burns out, then you should purchase a new one, because changing it is pointless.

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7. The trapezoid is damaged .
   A trapezoid is a drive consisting of rods and levers. Through such a system, movement is transmitted from the electric motor to the wiper arm. It is quite rare for a trapezoid to break. Usually the leads become unusable due to the weak design of the slots - they can be damaged by the slightest movement in the opposite direction. In such a situation, the leashes should be replaced.

How to remove the motor?

The main problems with the operation of the windshield wiper still affect the elements of the motor, requiring its repair or replacement. In general, when starting any restoration operations, you should know how to remove the windshield wiper motor without damaging its structure and associated components.

First, you need to unscrew the fasteners that secure the levers - this will allow you to remove the brushes from the drive splines. First of all, the nuts are unscrewed, and then the plastic bushings and gaskets are removed. Next, you need to remove the block with wires. To do this, you need to lift the seals along the edges and dismantle them through the slot in the engine niche. At this stage, the entire structure of the windshield wiper should be removed, the washer, spring and traction elements should be removed. This is an example of how you can remove the front windshield wiper motor without interfering with the drive systems of the vehicle itself. Once the device is removed, you can begin to inspect it and identify defects. Having assessed the condition of the washer, you need to make a decision - to replace it or repair it.

Types of brushes

Car manufacturers provide car owners with a choice of brush types. Depending on the design and operational characteristics, they can be of the following types:

Frame brushes

1. Frame brushes are the best and affordable option. They adapt well to the working surface of the windshield, but deteriorate the quality of cleaning at sub-zero temperatures and high speeds.
2. Frameless wipers are a more expensive option that provides high-quality glass cleaning. The device is more resistant to freezing and also lasts longer. Among the disadvantages, it is necessary to note the difficulty of selecting brushes to ensure proper fit to the glass.
3. Hybrid windshield wipers - these are often called winter wipers due to their closed design and moisture resistance. Ideal for regions with low temperatures, where it is important to ensure the functionality of the cleaning system.

Frameless wipers

Features of removing the motor on a VAZ

If the work is carried out on one of the VAZ models, then you will have to take into account some of the nuances of dismantling. In general, the operation is similar to similar actions on other cars, but there are still some differences.

So, first the power plug is disconnected. This element is disconnected as a result of carefully moving it away from the place of fixation. Next, you should lift the seal, grabbing its edges. This is how the hood rubber rises. The wires with the plug are removed through the slots, after which the motor mounting bolts are unscrewed. In order to finally prepare the VAZ windshield wiper motor for dismantling, it is also necessary to lift the protective cover. Then you need to lightly press on the slotted pins - this should be done until they fall inward. This completes the procedure. The motor is ready to be removed.

Rules for caring for windshield wipers

In order for installed wipers to last as long as possible, they must be properly cared for:

1. Lubricate the guide pins regularly. Silicone compounds are suitable for this. If you miss the moment, rust will ruin even an installed expensive model.
2. Be sure to remove the cleaning element and wash it with soap and water. This is necessary due to severe environmental pollution in cities.
3. Trace the position of the leash against the glass - an ideal perpendicular position.
4. Never try to clear frozen glass with wipers. First, manually remove the ice or heat the surface before turning on the automatic brushes.
5. Choose the length of your wipers carefully. They should not come into contact with the gasket during the entire stroke.

Don't forget about seasonality and adaptation to certain models. Using summer wipers in winter will immediately damage them, and the lack of an adapter on the purchased model will not allow installation on a vehicle.

Important! Worn hinges increase the washer consumption several times and create a very unpleasant backlash. Therefore, windshield wipers are not changed according to regulations, but because they fail.

How to remove the rear windshield wiper motor?

The design and principles of fastening the rear window are somewhat different from the front, as are the means of providing drive systems. Therefore, the approach to removing the washer with its electric motor has a number of features. Work begins by installing the “janitor” in a vertical position, which will make it possible to unscrew the mounting screws. Then, to remove the rear wiper motor, you need to disconnect all external components of the system and the structure itself. In particular, the lever and the protective cap on the shaft are removed, and the bracket bolt is unscrewed.

A special feature of this procedure is the need to remove the luggage compartment upholstery. To do this, you need to take out the pistons one by one, blocking the approach to the block with the wiring. It is important to take into account that you will have to remove two blocks - one is for harnesses, and the other is for cables. When these elements are removed, you can begin to unscrew the screws securing the motor. Next, it remains to remove the drive component by turning it around.

Where to buy a windshield wiper motor?

Car disassembly "AutoStrong" offers to purchase contract parts for cars. Here you can buy a used wiper motor from a European auto repair shop. The assortment includes original factory products at a low price. All spare parts in our catalog are of high quality, are in good working order, will last a long time and come with a lifetime guarantee.

To buy a rear wiper motor, select the appropriate product and place your order. We will deliver to any region of Russia. You can also buy a used wiper motor by calling the phone number listed on our company’s website.

If you find it difficult to choose, contact our specialist via online chat. He will help you choose a used rear wiper motor and place an order for its purchase.

Disassembling the motor

After the external fasteners that secure the electric motor are unscrewed, disassembly can begin. In this case, it is important not to touch the adjusting bolt, since the axial clearance in the anchor shaft may be disrupted. However, if you plan to replace the windshield wiper motor, then this factor does not matter.

First, you need to remove the panel on the gearbox, and then its gear and mounting bolt with cage nuts. The housing is dismantled along with the brush holder and the armature is immediately removed. It is recommended to blow out the housing with compressed air on site using a compressor. There are locking rings on the mechanism rollers - they should be removed completely along with the adjusting washers. The rods and sealing rings are removed from the bracket. The latter should be removed from both sides of the bracket - from the grooves.

The principle of operation of the drive, engine and other mechanism components

If the circuit and design of the windshield wiper do not raise any questions, let’s move on to the next point - the principle of operation. The windshield wiper holder, together with the blade mounted on it, moves left and right, which allows you to almost completely clean the windshield. As stated above, using the switch, the driver can adjust the speed at which the wiper blade holder will move. Some modern cars are equipped with hidden cleaners. In this case, the windshield wiper mechanism is installed under the windshield, and when the driver needs to turn on the wipers, the device pushes up this mechanism, which, after being turned off, “hides” back.

In general, windshield and rear window cleaners are almost identical products, but there are differences in their operation. For example, the windshield wiper blade holder can only operate in one mode, without the possibility of adjustment. That is, if the front wipers are part of a whole system that includes many elements and a control unit, then the rear wiper has only one function. One of the main components of the washer is a pump designed to activate the system’s electric motor.

Let's briefly consider the principle of operation of the system:

1. The driver presses the steering column switch, giving the control unit a signal to turn on the wipers and also supply water.
2. Through the operation of the electric motor, the liquid begins to be transmitted through hoses through nozzles to the windshield or rear window.
3. The windshield wiper blade holder begins to rotate under the influence of an electric motor, to which the control device has sent a signal - at what speed the holders should move.
4. With a short-term supply of liquid, a certain volume is applied to the glass. When the water stops flowing, the wipers continue to work for some time, usually 1-3 strokes (the author of the video is the Volkswagen channel RUS-LAN center).

Motor repair

Technical restoration of an electric motor may concern its various parts, as well as the condition of contacts and boards. In some cases, only cleaning of the elements is also allowed, while other problems require their complete replacement. As a rule, repair of the windshield wiper motor is carried out after carefully checking the condition of the following parts:

• springs on the motor brushes - unsatisfactory quality of movement leads to the need for replacement;
• collector - usually cleaned with abrasives (if the element is burnt, then the armature must be replaced);
• the gear in the gearbox requires replacement if broken or worn teeth are detected;
• The purifier rods are replaced if they are bent;
• all rubber elements in the presence of the slightest cracks, breaks and scratches must also be replaced;
• the contacts may be burnt or oxidized (in such cases, they are cleaned with a fine-grained abrasive).

Of course, there are often cases when repairing a windshield wiper motor with replacing all of the listed elements does not give the expected result. This usually happens due to incompatibility of the device with the characteristics of the car itself or due to serious damage to the board, for example, if contacts with wires are burnt. Also, the inevitability of a complete replacement of the device arises if the entire filling of the motor requires comprehensive repairs. Although restoration is theoretically possible, the result is unlikely to ensure long-term operation of the wipers.

Opinions of car owners about why the rear wiper does not work

1. Upon closer examination, it turned out that the trapezoid had become stuck and the contacts on the board from the plug had oxidized. “We purchased a car whose rear wiper does not work. Not long ago I decided to watch it. Upon closer examination, it turned out that the trapezoid had become stuck and the contacts on the board from the plug had oxidized. WD-40 and a hammer helped, the trapezoid was developed. I carefully lubricated everything with graphite grease, because there was nothing else. After assembly everything worked. However, a new problem arose: when you close the trunk, the windshield wiper lowers slightly. After inspection, I discovered that the tube to which the brush is attached has some play.”
2. They took out the board and at first did not pay attention to the small spot on the transistor. However, there was a reason for it.
   “I had a similar case. I apply voltage to the contacts located under the gear, everything works, I install it back - it doesn’t work. The tube on the windshield washer became covered with rust, then broke and everything spilled onto the circuit board. I spent several days repairing it with a friend in the evenings. They took out the board and at first did not pay attention to the small spot on the transistor. However, there was a reason for it. I went, bought it, soldered it and everything was fine.”

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3. Having disassembled the engine housing, I realized that the main shaft had become stuck to the housing.
   “Finally, on the weekend, I cut out a remover for the brush on the rear window. It was quite easy to dismantle the casing and motor. Having disassembled the engine housing, I realized that the main shaft had become stuck to the housing. So it became clear why the rear wiper works so poorly. Then I soaked it in grease for half a day so that the parts could be disconnected. There was enough oil inside, but not quite where it should have been. As a result, rust stopped everything. I spent half a day tinkering, but the brush now works like new.”
4. The hardest thing to remove is a brush that is stuck.
   “Removing a brush that has become stuck without damaging the glass is the most difficult thing... For such a task, you should buy oil (solid oil).”

Assembly and installation of the motor

If you decide to purchase a new windshield wiper motor and install it on the old design, then during installation you can proceed in the reverse order. In this case, it is advisable to mark the adjusting elements even at the disassembly stage. This will allow you to determine on the spot how to replace the windshield wiper motor by installing a working analogue in the same place and with the same settings. This rule also applies if the previous electric motor was repaired - it is assembled and installed in the reverse order, but it should be taken into account that when installing the armature in a special shaft connector, a thrust ball must be built into the housing.

During the assembly process of the gearbox, it is advisable to lubricate its gear and shaft worm. Consistent solutions can be used as lubricants. The same applies to the procedure for installing the rod in the bracket - in this case the rollers are lubricated. The crank mechanism is installed parallel to the shortened rod and directed towards the electric motor.

What are rear wipers: main types

1. In what cars are they used?.

This type of windshield wiper is installed on the windows of many station wagons and hatchbacks. This need can be explained quite simply: road dirt flies onto the rear window due to the specific shape of the car body. However, drivers use it infrequently; they only remember it when driving backwards, when parking. At the same time, the brush is constantly covered with dust and hard particles that can ruin the wiper blade. Replacement is usually carried out once or twice a year.

2. Original and non-original.

Original parts for a car are those that are manufactured under the brand name of the vehicle manufacturer. For example, windshield wiper blades produced by Bosch or Valeo under their own brand are so-called non-original. However, the same Bosch or Valeo devices in a box with the BMW logo are already considered original and cost an order of magnitude more.

Popular companies that produce car components make custom-made windshield wiper systems, which car manufacturers then sell under their logo for much more. For many vehicles, you can purchase a rear window wiper from Bosch, SWF, Valeo or Trico. However, for some brands of cars such a rear wiper does not work, because they have a rather unusual blade that can only be replaced with an original device. For example, Honda Pilot since 2008, Opel Antara.

3. Models and method of mounting the windshield wiper.

According to the structure, the rear window wiper is available in frame, plastic, or frameless. The method of attaching the rear windshield wiper blade is non-standard, so installing a frameless blade instead of a frame one will not work.

• Frame brushes.

  The rear frame wiper is a short brush (regular, frame), which is fastened with a hook. This type of windshield wiper blade is typical for cars manufactured before 2000 and some modern brands. There are options when the hook has a standard look or one that is installed on the “classic” one. It happens that this type of brush without a plastic adapter is inserted directly into the leash, for example, like on a Range Rover.

  Drivers who want to change the frame type of brush to a frameless one should pay attention to the fact that if its fastening is a simple hook, the replacement cannot be made. As a rule, the leash is installed quite close to the rear window and can interfere with the installation of the frameless type of windshield wiper blade, because it is higher than the frame type due to the plugs.

  For example, these cars are equipped with a rear frame wiper: Nissan Juke, Ford Focus I, Chevrolet Lacetti and Trailblazer, Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, X-Trail T30, Smart, Honda CR-V until 2006.

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• Plastic wipers for rear window.

  Many modern cars have a rear wiper with a plastic frame. The brush is mounted on a plastic leash, and outwardly they look like a single unit. A distinctive feature of such a device is a special fastening, which comes in several types, but in fact there is no guarantee that they will fit, without having common fastening standards.

  In most cases, to remove the rear brush, you need to open the arm, then bend the wiper approximately 30° and, with some force, snap it off the arm. Some Lexus crossovers are equipped with a nut that must be unscrewed to remove the rear windshield wiper.

  We list the vehicles that have a plastic brush: Toyota Rav4 until 2012, Ford Focus II, Mazda 3, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, Opel Astra, Corsa, Skoda Octavia, Nissan X-Trail, Note.

• Frameless rear wipers.

  Such models are not equipped with a spoiler and have a rather low profile. At the same time, the fastening of frameless brushes is quite non-standard. Recently, some vehicle manufacturers have begun installing special frameless wipers on modern cars instead of plastic ones.

  For example, they can be seen on the BMW X5 E70, Volvo XC70, XC90, Skoda Fabia since 2006.

Checking the functionality of the mechanisms

At the repair stage or during a preventative check of windshield wipers, problems in the device can be identified in several ways. The quality of the mechanism is primarily determined by the function of the brush and its position in the brush holder. The cleaning elements must move freely and easily at the specified speed. The electric motor itself is checked by a tester. In particular, such diagnostics makes it possible to detect irregularities in contacts and connections. When disassembled, the device allows you to evaluate the condition of the gearbox gear - in particular, the mentioned teeth and threads on the rollers are checked. The remaining components can be checked with the naked eye, even with a superficial inspection.

Methods for attaching brushes

Before 1999, most car manufacturers used a type of mounting for OEM windshield wiper blades called a "hook" or "hook". This is a universal device in the shape of the letter “U”, which allows you to snap the brush into place and not worry about the reliability of its installation. The following types of mounts are currently gaining popularity:

1. Side pin - appeared in 2005 on BWM, Volvo and other cars. Allows brushes to be fixed using a special 22 or 17 mm side pin.
2. Button or “Push Button” is an adapter for standard 16 mm wide wiper blades. It is enough to snap the device into place for fastening, and to remove it you need to press a special button.
3. Pin lock - fixation of brushes using a special built-in lock. Used in Audi cars.

“Push Button” mounting scheme

This is not a complete list of types of fastenings. Each manufacturer can use their own designs for fixing brushes.

Despite the relative simplicity of windshield wipers, it is difficult to imagine a modern car without them. Drivers can control the operation of the wipers directly from the cabin, remove dirt and improve visibility of the road situation. And electronic systems automatically monitor the cleanliness of the glass, increasing the comfort and safety of driving without human intervention.