2017-2021 Honda Clarity Passenger Wiper Motor: Failure Diagnosis and Replacement

Known Issues for 2017-2021 Honda Clarity Wiper Systems

While there are no widespread recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the windshield wiper motors on the 2017-2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, 2017-2019 Clarity Electric, or 2017-2021 Clarity Fuel Cell, owners frequently report several issues with the overall wiper system.

• Independent Driver and Passenger Motors: A key design feature of the Clarity is that it uses two separate wiper motors—one for the driver's side and one for the passenger's side—instead of a single motor with a shared linkage. This means a failure on one side requires replacing only that side's specific motor. This guide and the associated part numbers are for the passenger side only.
• Passenger Wiper Hitting A-Pillar: A common complaint is the passenger-side wiper over-extending its travel and striking the A-pillar trim. In most cases, this is not a sign of a bad motor but rather an alignment issue. It can often be fixed by loosening the 17mm nut at the base of the wiper arm, repositioning the arm slightly lower on its splined post, and re-tightening it.
🎬 Watch this guide on how to align wiper arms properly.
• Wiper Chatter and Streaking: Many owners experience poor wipe quality, including chattering or leaving streaks, particularly in the driver's direct line of sight. This is often attributed to the OEM wiper blade compound or excessive arm pressure. Thoroughly cleaning the windshield with rubbing alcohol and replacing the wiper blade inserts or the entire blade assembly often resolves this.
🎬 See how to fix Clarity wiper blade issues on the cheap.

Symptoms of a Failing Passenger Wiper Motor

A failing wiper motor will show several distinct signs. Since the Clarity has independent motors, these symptoms will typically only affect the passenger side if its motor is failing.

• Wiper is Slow or Erratic: The passenger-side wiper moves noticeably slower than the driver's side, or it may stutter and move erratically across the windshield. This can be caused by internal wear or increased resistance in the motor's gears.
• Wiper Only Works on One Speed: You can change the wiper speed setting, but the passenger wiper continues to move at the same speed, while the driver's side responds correctly.
• Wiper Won't Park Correctly: When you turn the wipers off, the passenger-side arm stops in the middle of the windshield instead of returning to its resting position at the base of the cowl. This points to a failure of the motor's internal park switch.
• Humming or Grinding Noises: You hear a distinct electrical humming or mechanical grinding sound coming from the base of the passenger-side wiper when it's activated. If you hear the noise but the arm doesn't move, the motor has likely failed.
• Wiper Doesn't Move at All: The passenger-side wiper remains completely stationary while the driver's side works fine. Before condemning the motor, it's wise to check the fuse for the wiper system first.

Buying a Used Windshield Wiper Motor

Purchasing a used OEM wiper motor can be a cost-effective solution, offering the same fit and electrical compatibility as a new part. Here’s what to inspect before buying:

• Verify the Part Number: The most current part number for the passenger-side motor is 76510-TRT-A04. Earlier versions include 76510-TRT-A02 and 76510-TRT-A03. Always choose the latest revision (A04) for the most up-to-date design.
• Check the Electrical Connector: Inspect the connector pins for any signs of corrosion, burning, or damage. The plastic housing should be free of cracks.
• Inspect the Output Shaft: Look at the splined metal shaft where the wiper linkage attaches. The splines should be clean and well-defined, not stripped or rusted.
• Examine the Housing: Check the motor's case for cracks, heavy corrosion, or signs that it has been tampered with or opened. Water intrusion is a common cause of failure, so a well-sealed unit is crucial.
• Note the Donor Vehicle's Mileage: A motor from a lower-mileage vehicle is always preferable. While wiper motors don't have a set lifespan, less use generally means less wear on the internal gears and brushes.

Replacement Difficulty & Cost

Replacing the passenger-side wiper motor on a Honda Clarity is a moderately difficult job that a confident DIYer can accomplish in about 1 to 2 hours with basic tools.

• Difficulty: 3 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.5 hours
• DIY Feasible: Yes

Cost Comparison

Basic Replacement Steps

1. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Pry off the small plastic cap at the base of the passenger wiper arm to expose the retaining nut.
3. Remove the 17mm retaining nut.
4. Gently rock the wiper arm back and forth to loosen it from the splined motor shaft. A dedicated wiper arm puller tool is recommended to avoid damage.
5. Carefully remove the plastic clips holding the windshield cowl (the large plastic trim piece between the windshield and the hood) and remove the cowl to access the wiper assembly.
6. Locate the passenger-side wiper motor. Disconnect its electrical harness.
7. Unbolt the motor from the vehicle's frame. There are typically three bolts holding it in place.
8. Crucial Step: Before installing the new motor, plug it into the electrical harness. Turn the ignition on and cycle the wipers once, then turn them off. This ensures the motor stops in its correct 'park' position.
9. Bolt the new motor into place and reconnect the electrical harness.
10. Re-install the cowl, then place the wiper arm back onto the motor shaft, aligning the blade with the tape mark you made earlier.
11. Install the retaining nut, reconnect the battery, and test the wiper function before closing the hood.
🎬 Watch a helpful walkthrough of the Honda wiper motor replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)