2011-2012 Fisker Karma Windshield Wiper Arm: Sourcing and Replacing a Hard-to-Find Part

Symptoms of a Failing Windshield Wiper Arm

When a wiper arm begins to fail, it can cause a range of visibility and safety issues. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:

• Wiper Blade Skips, Chatters, or Streaks: If you've already replaced the wiper blades but they still don't wipe cleanly, the problem may be the arm. A weak internal spring can fail to apply enough pressure, causing the blade to lift off the glass at speed or chatter as it moves.
• One Wiper Stops Moving: If one wiper arm stops moving while the other works, the splines inside the arm's mounting hole have likely stripped out. You may hear the wiper motor running, but the arm itself won't move. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix a slipping wiper arm. The splines are made of a softer metal designed to fail before the more expensive wiper linkage pivot is damaged.
• Visible Damage or Corrosion: A visual inspection may reveal that the arm is bent, cracked, or has excessive rust. A bent arm will not hold the blade at the correct angle to the windshield, resulting in a poor wipe.
• Loose Wiper Arm: If you can wiggle the arm at its base where it connects to the car, the mounting nut may be loose or the splines may be stripped. This can cause the wiper to move erratically or stop working altogether.
• Wiper Doesn't Park Correctly: If the wipers stop in the middle of the windshield instead of returning to their resting position at the base of the glass, it can sometimes be related to a loose arm that has slipped on its pivot shaft.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls for 2011-2012 Fisker Karma

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Fisker or the NHTSA that relate directly to the windshield wiper arms on the 2011-2012 Karma. While the vehicle has had recalls for other issues such as battery cooling, cooling fans, and airbags, the wiper system has not been the subject of a specific campaign. Any failures are typically due to general wear and tear rather than a specific manufacturing defect.

Buying a Used Windshield Wiper Arm

Due to the Fisker Karma's limited production run and the manufacturer's subsequent restructuring, new OEM parts are generally unavailable. Aftermarket companies have not produced replacements, making a used OEM part the only viable option for most owners. Finding a quality used part is critical.

What to Inspect on a Used Part:

• Check the Splines: This is the most critical inspection point. Look inside the round mounting hole at the base of the arm. You should see a set of sharp, distinct grooves (splines). If these splines are rounded, flattened, or filled with aluminum shavings, the arm is stripped and useless. Ask the seller for a clear, well-lit photo of this specific area.
• Test the Hinge and Spring: The arm is hinged to allow it to lift away from the windshield. This hinge should move smoothly but feel firm. Check for excessive side-to-side play at the hinge, which indicates wear. While you can't test the spring pressure directly, a hinge that feels overly loose or floppy suggests a weak spring.
• Inspect for Bends and Cracks: Lay the arm on a flat surface to check for any bends or twists. Even a slight bend can prevent the wiper blade from making proper contact with the windshield. Check carefully for any stress cracks, especially around the mounting hole and the hinge.
• Verify Part Numbers: If possible, match the part number. The left and right arms may be different. Known part numbers for a set are C131178201100 and C131178201200.

Cost Breakdown

Since new parts are not an option, the market consists of used OEM parts and professional labor. Prices can vary based on the condition and rarity of available used parts.

Replacement Overview

Replacing a wiper arm is a relatively simple DIY task. The main challenge is often removing the old arm if it has seized onto the pivot post.

Difficulty: 2 out of 5

Estimated Time: 0.5 hours

Basic Steps:

1. Lift the plastic cap at the base of the wiper arm to expose the mounting nut.
2. Before removing the arm, it's a good idea to mark its "parked" position on the windshield with a piece of masking tape. This ensures you install the new arm at the correct angle.
3. Remove the mounting nut, typically using a small ratchet and socket.
4. Gently wiggle the arm to try and loosen it from the splined pivot post. Often, they do not come off easily.
5. If the arm is stuck, apply a penetrating oil and let it sit. You may need a special tool called a wiper arm puller to safely remove the arm without damaging the pivot. Do not use excessive force or pry against the windshield.
6. Before installing the new arm, clean the splines on the pivot post with a small wire brush.
7. Press the new arm onto the post, aligning it with your tape mark.
8. Reinstall and tighten the nut, then replace the plastic cap. Test the wipers to ensure they operate correctly and do not hit the edges of the windshield.

Frequently Asked Questions