2013-2019 Ford Flex Windshield Wiper Motor: Failure Symptoms & Replacement Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Wiper Motor

A bad wiper motor on a 2013-2019 Ford Flex will usually give several warning signs before it fails completely. The most common cause of failure is simple wear and tear over time. Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent you from being caught in a storm with no visibility.

• Slow or Stuttering Wipers: The wipers may move across the windshield much slower than usual, even on the highest speed setting. They might also appear to hesitate or stutter as they move. This often indicates the motor is getting weak and struggling to move the wiper arms.
• Wipers Only Work on One Speed: You might find that the wipers only function on the fastest setting, while the slower, intermittent settings do nothing. This can point to a failure in the motor's internal speed control mechanism.
• Incorrect Parking Position: When you turn the wipers off, they should return to their resting position at the bottom of the windshield. A failing motor may cause them to stop in the middle of the glass or wherever they were when the switch was turned off.
• Humming or Grinding Noises: A distinct electrical humming, buzzing, or grinding sound coming from the cowl area (the base of the windshield) when the wipers are activated is a strong sign the motor is damaged internally. You may hear this sound even if the wipers are barely moving or not moving at all.
• No Movement at All: The most obvious symptom is when the wipers don't move at all when you turn them on. Before assuming the motor is dead, it's wise to first check the wiper fuse to ensure it hasn't blown. If the fuse is good, the motor is the most likely culprit.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Ford or the NHTSA for windshield wiper motor failure on the 2013-2019 Ford Flex. The most common issues reported by owners are related to standard wear and tear.

While other Ford models from different years have had recalls for wiper motor issues related to water intrusion or manufacturing defects, these specific recalls do not apply to the 2013-2019 Flex.

Buying a Used Wiper Motor for a 2013-2019 Ford Flex

Purchasing a used OEM wiper motor can be a smart way to save money, as you get a part with proven factory quality and fitment for significantly less than a new dealer part. However, it's important to inspect a recycled motor carefully before buying.

What to Inspect:

• Electrical Connector: Look closely at the pins inside the electrical connector. They should be clean, straight, and free of any green or white corrosion. Corrosion is a sign of water damage, which can cause intermittent electrical problems.
• Output Shaft and Gear: Check the splined output shaft where the wiper linkage attaches. Ensure the splines are clean and not stripped. If possible, try to gently turn the shaft to feel for any grinding or excessive play in the internal gears.
• Housing Integrity: Inspect the plastic and metal housing of the motor for any cracks, significant rust, or signs that it has been opened or tampered with. A cracked housing could allow water to enter and destroy the motor.
• Donor Vehicle Mileage: If possible, ask for the mileage of the Ford Flex the motor came from. A motor from a lower-mileage vehicle is generally a better bet for a longer service life.

Cost Comparison (2013-2019 Ford Flex)

Replacement Guide & Difficulty

Replacing the wiper motor on a Ford Flex is a moderately difficult job that a confident DIY mechanic can typically complete in 1.5 to 3 hours. The main challenge is accessing the motor, which is hidden beneath the plastic cowl panel at the base of the windshield.

Installation Difficulty: 3/5

Required Tools:

• Socket set and ratchet
• Small flathead screwdriver or pick
• Wiper arm puller tool (highly recommended)
• Torque wrench
• Painter's tape

Step-by-Step Walkthrough:

1. Mark Wiper Position: Before you begin, turn the wipers on and off once to ensure they are in the parked position. Use painter's tape to mark the exact location of each wiper blade on the windshield. This is crucial for correct reinstallation.
2. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety.
3. Remove Wiper Arms: Pry off the plastic caps at the base of each wiper arm. Remove the retaining nuts underneath. The arms are often seized onto the splined posts; use a dedicated wiper arm puller tool to remove them without causing damage.
4. Remove Cowl Panel: Carefully remove the plastic clips and seals holding the cowl panel in place. Once the fasteners are removed, the panel should lift away, exposing the wiper motor and linkage assembly.
5. Disconnect and Remove Motor: Unplug the electrical connector from the wiper motor. Unbolt the entire motor and linkage assembly from the firewall (typically three or four bolts). Lift the complete assembly out of the vehicle.
6. Swap the Motor: On a workbench, unbolt the old motor from the wiper linkage transmission. Bolt the new motor onto the linkage.
7. Park the New Motor: Before reinstalling the assembly, temporarily reconnect the electrical plug to the new motor and reconnect the vehicle's battery. Turn the ignition on, cycle the wipers on and then off at the switch, and wait for the motor to stop in its 'park' position. This step is critical. Disconnect the battery again.
8. Reinstall Assembly: Install the motor and linkage assembly back onto the firewall and tighten the mounting bolts. Reconnect the electrical plug.
9. Reinstall Cowl and Arms: Reinstall the plastic cowl panel. Place the wiper arms back onto the splined posts, aligning the blades with the tape marks you made earlier. Install and tighten the retaining nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Snap the plastic caps back on.
10. Test Operation: Reconnect the battery and test all wiper speeds to ensure proper operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)