Guida all'acquisto del motorino tergicristallo

How a wiper motor works

The wiper motor is a small DC electric motor geared down to produce the slow, powerful torque needed to drive the wiper linkage. A park circuit keeps the wipers returning to the stored position when switched off, rather than stopping mid-sweep. Most front wiper systems use a single motor driving both wipers through a tandem linkage; some vehicles use one motor per wiper.

Rear wiper motors are typically smaller self-contained units mounted through the tailgate. They include the motor, reduction gearbox, and output shaft in a single assembly and are simpler to replace than front systems.

Fault diagnosis

If wipers are slow, only work on one speed, or fail to park correctly, the motor itself may be at fault, but check the wiper fuse and relay first — they are the most common cause and are simple to replace. A motor that works on high speed but not low (or vice versa) usually indicates a fault in the motor's brush arrangement rather than complete motor failure. Wipers that stop at a random position when switched off indicate a failed park circuit within the motor.

Wiper linkage wear — worn pivots or a corroded linkage rod — is another cause of wiper problems that does not originate in the motor. Disconnect the linkage and operate the motor alone to isolate the fault.

• Check fuse and relay before replacing motor
• Wipers slow or only work on one speed
• Wipers not parking correctly when switched off
• Motor hums but wipers do not move (linkage seized)
• Rear wiper not working (separate motor fault)

Replacement

Front wiper motor replacement usually requires removing the scuttle panel under the bonnet to access the motor and linkage. Most motors are secured with three bolts and a wiring connector. Note the orientation of the motor output crank before removal to ensure correct park position on the replacement. Use the registration lookup to find the correct wiper motor for your vehicle.

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