Dodge B150 Wiper Motor Guide: Symptoms, Brands, and Replacement (1989-1994)
If your van's wipers are slow, noisy, or won't park correctly, your wiper motor is likely the problem.
- Symptoms like slow operation, incorrect parking, or only having one speed are classic signs of motor failure on the B150.
- Before replacing the motor, check the fuse and listen for motor noise. If the motor runs but wipers don't move, check the cheap plastic linkage bushings first.
- There are no specific recalls for the wiper motor on the 1989-1994 Dodge B150.
- New OEM parts are unavailable; your choice is between aftermarket brands like Cardone, which has mixed reviews, and lower-cost 'Replacement' parts.
Is Your Dodge B150 Wiper Motor Failing?
On these classic Dodge vans, the wiper motor often fails due to simple age and decades of use. The internal gears wear out, and the electrical components can degrade. Here are the most common signs that your wiper motor needs to be replaced:
- Slow or Erratic Wipers: The wipers move much slower than they used to, even on the highest speed setting. They might also speed up and slow down randomly.
- Only One Speed Works: A very common symptom is losing your low-speed or intermittent settings, with the wipers only working on high speed.
- Wipers Won't Park Correctly: When you turn the wipers off, they stop in the middle of the windshield instead of returning to the bottom. This points to a failure of the internal park switch inside the motor.
- No Movement at All: You turn the switch and nothing happens. You might hear a faint humming or buzzing sound from the base of the windshield, which means the motor is getting power but is seized internally. If you hear nothing, the fuse may be blown or there could be a wiring issue.
- Grinding or Buzzing Noises: Any unusual sounds from the cowl area when the wipers are on suggest the motor's internal gears are stripped or failing.
Pro Tip: Check This Before You Buy
If you can hear the motor running but the wiper arms don't move, the motor itself might be fine. The problem is often brittle plastic bushings that connect the motor to the wiper linkage arms. These bushings can crack and fall apart, disconnecting the motor from the arms. This is a very common, inexpensive fix that can save you from buying a whole new motor. You can buy a wiper linkage bushing kit separately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wiper Motor
For a vehicle from this era, new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Mopar parts are generally discontinued and no longer available from dealers. Your main choices will be new aftermarket parts or remanufactured units.
Brand Quality: Cardone vs. Replacement
When shopping for a new wiper motor for your B150, you'll likely see two main options:
- Cardone (New or Remanufactured): Cardone is a major player in the aftermarket world. They offer both brand new and remanufactured wiper motors. While the company promotes its extensive testing and re-engineering processes, real-world feedback from mechanics and DIYers is mixed. Some have good experiences, but others report receiving defective parts or experiencing premature failure, suggesting quality can be inconsistent.
- Replacement (Value/Economy): This category typically refers to unbranded parts, often made in China. They are designed to be a direct-fit, budget-friendly option. While they may not have the brand recognition or the same remanufacturing process as Cardone, they can offer good value for the price. For an older vehicle like the B150, a new 'Replacement' part can sometimes be a more reliable choice than a poorly remanufactured unit.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Bulletins
As of early 2026, there are no active recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA specifically for the windshield wiper motor on the 1989-1994 Dodge B150. Recalls for wiper motors on other Dodge vehicles, like newer Ram trucks or Caravans, do not apply to this van.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Replacement, Cardone) | $60 - $172 |
| Remanufactured (Cardone) | $107 - $172 (plus core charge) |
| Used OEM (Mopar) | $30 - $60 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $110 - $165 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if the motor runs but the wipers don't move?
This is almost always caused by broken plastic bushings in the wiper linkage, not the motor itself. These are small, cheap parts that connect the motor's arm to the wiper transmission arms. You can buy a bushing kit and replace them without needing a new motor.
Is it difficult to replace the wiper motor myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job on a B150. You will need basic hand tools to remove the plastic cowl cover at the base of the windshield to access the motor. The motor is typically held on by three bolts. The entire process usually takes about an hour.
Are there any recalls for the wiper motor on my van?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database show no safety recalls for the wiper motor system on the 1989-1994 Dodge B150 model range.
My wipers act weird, could it be the switch instead of the motor?
Yes, a faulty wiper switch can also cause issues like intermittent operation or complete failure. However, symptoms like slow movement, incorrect parking, and only working on high speed are much more commonly associated with the motor itself. Always check the fuse first before replacing any parts.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4389132AB
Fits 1989-1994 Dodge B150. Motor is located on the firewall, under the exterior cowl panel.
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.
- Dodge B150: