2001-2002 Infiniti G20 Windshield Wiper Motor: The Critical Mid-Year Split and 5-Pin Connector
This guide explains the crucial production date change for the 2001-2002 Infiniti G20 wiper motor and how to get the right part the first time.
- This motor fits 2001 G20s built from January 2001 and all 2002 models; check your car's door jamb sticker.
- You MUST verify the part has a 5-pin electrical connector before buying; this is the most reliable check.
- Common failure symptoms include slow operation, only one speed working, or wipers stopping in the middle of the windshield.
- A compatible motor was also used in the 2000-2004 Nissan Pathfinder, which can expand your search for a used part.
Symptoms of a Failing Wiper Motor
A failing wiper motor on a 2001-2002 Infiniti G20 will usually show clear signs of a problem. Here’s what to look and listen for:
- Wipers Move Slowly: The wipers may struggle to move across the windshield, even on the fastest setting. This often indicates the motor is wearing out and losing power.
- Only One Speed Works: You might find that the high-speed setting works, but the low-speed doesn't, or vice-versa. This points to a problem with the motor's internal electrical components.
- Wipers Won't Park Correctly: When you turn the wipers off, they should return to the base of the windshield. If they stop in the middle of the glass, the motor's internal park mechanism has likely failed.
- No Movement at All: If you turn the wipers on and nothing happens, the motor may have completely burned out. You might hear a faint humming or buzzing sound, which means the motor is receiving power but is unable to move. If you hear nothing, the problem could be a blown fuse or a bad switch, so it's important to diagnose the issue before replacing parts.
- Blown Wiper Fuses: If the wiper fuse blows repeatedly, the motor might be drawing too much electrical current due to internal wear or a short circuit.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
As of this writing, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Infiniti or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the windshield wiper motor on the 2001-2002 Infiniti G20. The primary issue for this part is a mid-year production change.
Compatibility Warning: The most critical issue for this part is a change made during the 2001 model year. This wiper motor fits 2001 Infiniti G20 models built from January 2001 onwards and all 2002 models. Vehicles built before this date use a different motor and connector. Always verify your vehicle's production date on the sticker located in the driver's side door jamb before purchasing.
Buying a Used Windshield Wiper Motor
A used OEM wiper motor can be a reliable and cost-effective replacement. Since new OEM units are often discontinued and expensive, a quality recycled part is an excellent choice. Here’s what to check before you buy:
1. Verify the Connector
This is the most important step. The correct motor for G20 models made from January 2001 has a 5-pin electrical connector. Ask the seller for a clear photo of the connector or inspect it yourself. If it does not have 5 pins, it is the wrong part for your vehicle, regardless of what a part number lookup might say.
2. Physical Inspection
- Check for Corrosion: Look for rust or white, chalky residue on the aluminum motor housing and especially on the electrical connector pins. Heavy corrosion suggests the part was exposed to moisture, which can lead to premature failure.
- Inspect the Output Shaft: This is the splined shaft where the wiper linkage attaches. Ensure the splines are clean and not stripped. A stripped shaft will not be able to move the wiper arms.
- Look for Damage: Check for cracks in the plastic gear housing or dents in the motor body. Any physical damage is a red flag.
3. Donor Vehicle Information
Ask the seller for the mileage of the donor vehicle if possible. A motor from a lower-mileage car is always preferable. Also, confirm the donor vehicle is a 2001 (built after 01/01) or 2002 G20. Interestingly, the same motor was also used in other Nissan vehicles. Part number 28810-2W600, which is compatible, was used in the 2000-2004 Nissan Pathfinder. This may expand your search for a suitable used part.
Pro Tip: Before installing the used motor, it's a good idea to apply a small amount of multi-purpose grease to the moving parts of the linkage that connect to the motor. This ensures smooth operation from the start.
Cost Comparison
Replacing the wiper motor can have a wide range of costs depending on the part source. Here is an approximate breakdown:
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $440+ | Often discontinued and difficult to find. |
| New Aftermarket | $150 - $200 | From brands like Cardone or Dorman. Quality can vary. |
| Used OEM | $50 - $125 | A cost-effective and reliable option if inspected properly. |
| Shop Labor | $70 - $150 | The job typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours for a professional. |
Replacement Overview and Difficulty
Replacing the wiper motor on a 2001-2002 G20 is a straightforward job for a DIYer with basic tools. The motor is located under the plastic cowl panel at the base of the windshield.
- Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components.
- Remove Wiper Arms: Mark the position of the wipers on the windshield with tape. Remove the caps at the base of the wiper arms and undo the nuts (typically 14mm). You may need a battery terminal puller or a dedicated wiper arm puller to safely remove the arms from the splined posts.
- Remove the Cowl Panel: Carefully remove the plastic clips and lift away the cowl panel to access the wiper motor and linkage assembly.
- Disconnect and Unbolt: Unplug the 5-pin electrical connector. Unbolt the wiper linkage from the motor's output shaft, and then unbolt the motor itself from the vehicle's firewall (typically three bolts).
- Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Before re-attaching the linkage, it's a good practice to connect the new motor's wiring, turn the ignition on and cycle the wipers once, then turn them off. This ensures the motor is in the 'park' position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I need the early or late 2001 wiper motor?
Check the production date sticker on the driver's side door jamb. If your G20 was built in or after January 2001 (e.g., '01/01' or later), you need this motor. The definitive check is to physically look at the connector on your old motor; this part uses a 5-pin connector.
My wipers work, but they stop in the middle of the windshield. Is the motor bad?
Yes, this is a classic symptom of a failed park mechanism inside the wiper motor. The motor itself still has power, but it has lost its ability to find its 'home' position. The entire motor assembly needs to be replaced to fix this.
Can I use a wiper motor from a Nissan Sentra or Altima?
While Infiniti is Nissan's luxury brand, parts are not always interchangeable. However, research shows that the motor used in the 2000-2004 Nissan Pathfinder (Part No. 28810-2W600) is a compatible cross-reference for this G20 motor. Using a part from a Sentra or Altima is not recommended unless you can verify the part number and, most importantly, the 5-pin connector match perfectly.
Is it the motor or the switch on the steering column?
A simple test can help. If the wipers don't work on any speed, turn the key to the 'on' position and listen carefully in a quiet place while you turn the wiper switch on. If you hear a faint humming or buzzing from the base of the windshield, the motor is getting power, which means the switch is likely okay and the motor itself has failed. If you hear nothing, you should check the wiper fuse first before suspecting either the switch or the motor. A multimeter can be used to test for 12V power at the motor's connector to be certain.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 28810-7J100 28810-7J101 28810-2W600 28810-9Z400
Features a 5-pin electrical connector. Fits vehicles manufactured from January 2001 onwards.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- INFINITI G20: