2009-2018 Subaru Forester Wiper Motor & Linkage: Failure, Diagnosis, and Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing Wiper Motor Assembly

Failures in the wiper system can be caused by the motor, the linkage, the switch on the steering column, or even a simple fuse. Understanding the specific symptoms can help you pinpoint the problem.

• Wipers Won't Move at All: If there's no movement or sound when you activate the switch, the most likely culprits are a blown fuse, a failed motor, or a bad switch. Start by checking the fuse box in the engine bay for a fuse labeled "WIPER" or "FR WIPER," which is typically a 20A fuse.
• Wipers are Very Slow or Sluggish: If the wipers move much slower than they used to on all speed settings, it often points to a dying motor that is losing power or, more commonly, seized pivot points in the wiper linkage. Corrosion and dried-up grease in the linkage pivots cause high resistance, forcing the motor to work much harder until it eventually burns out.
• Only One Speed Works: If your wipers only work on the high-speed setting but not on low or intermittent, this usually points to a failure within the motor's internal circuitry or the wiper control switch.
• Wipers Stop in the Wrong Position: When you turn the wipers off, they should return to the bottom of the windshield. If they stop randomly in the middle of the glass, this is a classic sign of a failed park switch, which is located inside the wiper motor housing.
• Grinding or Chattering Noises: Mechanical grinding or chattering sounds from under the front cowl when the wipers are on suggest a problem with the linkage. This could be from worn-out plastic bushings or a linkage arm that has popped off its pivot ball.

Diagnosing the Problem: Motor vs. Linkage vs. Switch

Before buying parts, a few simple diagnostic steps can save you time and money.

1. Check the Fuse: Always start here. A blown fuse is the easiest and cheapest fix. The main wiper fuse is in the engine compartment fuse box.
2. Listen for the Motor: Turn the wipers on and stand near the front cowl. If you hear a humming or whirring sound but the wipers don't move, the motor is getting power, but the linkage is likely seized or broken.
3. Check for Binding: With the wipers off, gently try to move the wiper arms by hand. If they feel extremely stiff or won't budge, the pivots in the linkage are likely seized. If one arm moves freely but the other doesn't, a linkage arm may have popped off its pivot.
4. Test for Power: For more advanced diagnosis, you can disconnect the motor's electrical connector and use a test light or multimeter to check for power. With the key on and the wiper switch activated, you should have voltage at the appropriate pins. If there is power and ground but the motor doesn't run, the motor has failed. 🎬 See how to diagnose a non-functioning wiper motor If there is no power, the problem is likely the switch, relay, or wiring.

Buying a Used 2009-2018 Forester Wiper Motor Assembly

For the 2009-2018 Forester, the front wiper motor and linkage are sold as a single, complete assembly. This is beneficial because a failure in one part (like a seized linkage) often damages the other (the motor). Buying a complete, tested, used OEM assembly is often the most reliable and cost-effective repair.

What to Inspect:

• Check for Smooth Movement: The most important check. Grab the linkage arms and move them through their full range of motion by hand. They should move smoothly with minimal resistance. Any binding, grinding, or stiffness is a major red flag indicating seized pivots.
• Inspect Pivot Points: Look closely at the pivot points where the wiper arms attach. Check for excessive rust, corrosion, or signs that water has been pooling. This is the most common failure area.
• Examine the Electrical Connector: The motor's electrical connector and its pins should be clean, dry, and free of any green or white corrosion. A damaged connector can cause intermittent issues.
• Verify Part Numbers: There are different part numbers for the 3rd generation (2009-2013, SH chassis) and 4th generation (2014-2018, SJ chassis). Ensure the part number on the used assembly matches the compatible numbers for your vehicle year.

Cost Comparison

Replacement Guide Overview

Replacing the wiper motor and linkage assembly is a straightforward job for a DIYer with basic tools. The estimated time is about 1 to 1.5 hours.

1. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal as a safety precaution.
2. Remove Wiper Arms: Pry off the plastic caps at the base of the wiper arms and remove the 14mm nuts. The arms are on a tapered, splined shaft and may be stuck. Rock the arm back and forth to loosen it. A special wiper arm puller tool may be needed 🎬 Watch: How to remove and rebuild stuck wiper linkage if they are seized.
3. Remove the Cowl Panel: Remove the plastic clips holding the front cowl panel (the plastic trim between the hood and windshield) in place. You may need to remove side pieces first. Once the clips are out, the cowl can be lifted away.
4. Unbolt the Assembly: The entire wiper motor and linkage assembly is held in by a few bolts. Remove these bolts.
5. Disconnect and Remove: Unplug the electrical connector from the motor, and carefully maneuver the entire assembly out of the vehicle.
6. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Before putting the cowl and wiper arms back on, briefly reconnect the battery and turn the wipers on and then off. This ensures the motor stops in the correct 'park' position. Then, install the wiper arms so the blades rest at the bottom of the windshield.

Part Number Reference

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)