Windscreen Wiper Linkage Push Rod Arms Repair

Product Information

Botched:When buying this car, I’d noticed this overlong stud poking out of the scuttle, but was too busy assessing the rest of the car to investigate then. Repair and protect:…so the wire was soldered, a shrink-sleeve fitted, and the complete harness was encased in conduit and secured clear of the mechanism, out of harm’s way. A problem with the wiper motor park switch can cause the wipers not to turn off or park in random spots. It might happen intermittently, often in cold weather. Some Honda and Acura cars had this problem. The park switch is built into the wiper motor, but in some cars, parts related to the parking switch come separately. In most cars, the park switch comes together with the motor, so if the park switch is bad, the wiper motor must be replaced.

Evidence:Although these two inner joints (left) attaching the rods to the motor’s crank arm were okay, the nearby gouge showed the linkage had been rubbing against the bulkhead. It is usually a set of rods with cup and ball bearings that manoeuvre the wiper arms across the windscreen when the motor is running. Electrics:With the moulding clear, the wiper motor’s electrical plug is disconnected by pressing the release tab, then the harness is moved safely out of the scuttle. Ensure the bonnet is securely propped up and take care not to dislodge it while working on the wiper system. The wiper linkage is what attaches the windscreen wiper motor to the wiper arms and blades. How does the windscreen wiper linkage work and what are the components?Keep it dry:Base of the windscreen was cleaned to reduce water ingress past the intake moulding seal, and moisture-retaining leaves and debris were cleaned from the scuttle. Push fit:Fitting the new covers is initially a matter of engaging the rubber pegs with the holes and then squeezing them gently in from the upper side, here. Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on part availability What does a windscreen wiper linkage do? If it's possible to free wiper arm shafts out of the linkage, your mechanic may suggest an option to clean and lubricate the shafts without replacing parts. It is cheaper, but the proper solution is to replace the linkage.

Mitsubishi recalled the 2007-2013 Outlander for wiper motor failures (recall SR-17-003). Another Mitsubishi recall (SR-16-010) covers a wiper motor in the 2011−2015 Outlander Sport / RVR.

Rubber pegs:The hinge covers are fixed to the intake moulding by rubber pegs through these holes. The pegs can be sliced off from the underside using a craft knife. Rarity:The new wiper linkage comes with new mounting rubbers and new wiper spindle seals, but no wiper arm securing nuts so the originals need to be saved. Stop the rust:Each air intakegrille on the underside of the moulding is supported by a steel frame, so it’s worth applying a liquid grease to stop them rusting away.

How it works:Lifting that inner pin of the clip allows the three lower legs to fold in so the clip can be pulled out. Squeeze legs in when refitting later. Simple refit:When all that was done, the motor and linkage assembly is simply laid in place on its three mountings, the three bolts inserted, and tightened down. The wiper motor is a DC (direct current) 12V motor that includes a set of gears and a park switch. The park switch allows the motor to stop when wipers are positioned at the bottom of the windshield in their "park' position. The cost of a wiper linkage replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.

Wiper motor park switch

This means, if you have to pay for wiper motor repairs, keep the receipt. If there is a recall, you can apply for reimbursement.

Final job:On the outside of each hinge cover are two rubber tongues that need to be carefully pressed downward to locate underneath the edge of the wing panel. The wiper linkage is the component that attaches the windscreen wiper motor to the wiper arms and blades. Its job is to transmit the motion of the wiper motor to the wiper arms and blades to clear rain, snow and ice from your windscreen. This component is an important safety feature as it plays a key role in ensuring the driver has good visibility at all times. How often should a wiper linkage need replacing? Crank nut:To ensure the crank nut is tight on the motor shaft, the crank is held firm with one spanner while tightening the 13mm AF nut with another.Crumbling:Over the years, UV light had changed the composition of the rubberised hinge covers so much that bits broke away when they were lifted off. There are clips that can be bought that will hold the ball in place in the cup, however these are a short term fix only. Can I supply my own parts? Cost saving:The electric motor will be saved for fitting to the new wiper linkage. Removing this single nut releases the crank arm, which is part of the linkage. Changing a wiper linkage is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.