Lexus GS350 (2008-2011) Wiper Motor Replacement Facts
If your GS350's wipers are acting up, here's what you need to know before buying a new motor.
- Failure symptoms often include wipers only working on high speed, not parking correctly, or moving slowly.
- Before replacing the motor, check the wiper fuse and the two wiper relays in the under-hood fuse box, as this is a common and cheaper fix.
- Aftermarket brands like Cardone or Replacement offer a significant cost savings over an OEM part and are a reliable choice for this repair.
- The job is DIY-friendly, but you may need a small puller tool to get the wiper arms off the shafts.
Is Your GS350 Wiper Motor Failing?
A faulty wiper motor is more than an annoyance; it's a safety issue. On the Lexus GS350, symptoms of failure are usually straightforward. Before you assume the motor is dead, check the simple things first. A blown fuse is a cheap fix, and sometimes wiper issues on these cars can be caused by faulty relays in the under-hood fuse box. 🎬 Watch: This easy fix could save you hundreds on repairs. If the fuse and relays are good, the motor itself is the likely culprit.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Wiper Motor:
- Wipers Don't Move: The most obvious sign is when the wipers don't work at all. You might hear a faint humming noise from the motor, which means it's getting power but can't move.
- Only One Speed Works: A common complaint is the wipers only functioning on the high-speed setting. This often points to a problem within the motor's internal circuitry or a related relay.
- Slow or Erratic Movement: If the wipers move much slower than they should, drag across the glass, or move inconsistently, the motor is likely wearing out. 🎬 See how to test a windshield wiper motor yourself.
- 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 or in the up position, the motor's internal parking switch has failed.
- Grinding Noises: Any grinding or clunking sounds from the base of the windshield when the wipers are on suggest worn or damaged gears inside the motor.
A Note on Recalls
While there were no direct recalls for the wiper motor on the 2008-2011 GS350, Lexus did issue recalls for other models around this time concerning the wiper arm nuts. These nuts could loosen, causing the wipers to become inoperative, especially under a heavy load like snow. While your GS350 wasn't part of this specific recall, it's a good reminder to ensure the nuts holding your wiper arms are tight after any service.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Wiper Motor
When replacing the wiper motor on your GS350, you have a few options. A new OEM motor from Lexus will be the most expensive choice. Aftermarket parts offer a more affordable solution and are often just as reliable for this type of component.
Brand Tiers for Your Lexus
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Cardone): Cardone is a well-known brand that offers both new and remanufactured parts. Their wiper motors are engineered to meet or exceed original performance and are thoroughly tested. For a vehicle like a Lexus, a new or remanufactured part from a reputable brand like Cardone is a solid choice that balances quality and cost.
- Standard/Value Aftermarket (e.g., Replacement): 'Replacement' branded parts are typically new, direct-fit components that offer a significant cost saving. For a part like a wiper motor, which doesn't impact the car's performance, these can be a great value. They are designed to function like the original and are a popular choice for budget-conscious repairs.
Pro Tip: When you replace the motor, it's a good idea to lubricate the wiper linkage (the arms and pivots the motor connects to). Stiff or binding linkage can put extra strain on the new motor and cause it to fail prematurely.
Wiper Motor Replacement Cost for 2008-2011 Lexus GS350
| Part Type | Estimated Part Cost | Estimated Labor Cost |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $245 - $380 | $101 - $148 |
| New Aftermarket | $79 - $116 | |
| Used OEM | $90 - $120 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is replacing the wiper motor a DIY job?
Yes, for someone with basic mechanical skills. The job involves removing the wiper arms, taking off the plastic cowl cover, unplugging the electrical connector, and unbolting the motor assembly. The main challenge can be removing the wiper arms from their splined shafts, which sometimes requires a special puller tool. Expect it to take 1-2 hours.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing your wiper motor.Do I need to replace the wiper linkage at the same time?
Not usually. You should only replace the linkage (also called the transmission) if it is bent, broken, or the pivot points are seized. If the linkage moves freely by hand after you disconnect it from the old motor, it does not need to be replaced. Just be sure to lubricate it.
How do I know if it's the motor or the switch that's bad?
A common failure mode for the motor is only working on high speed. This can also be caused by a bad relay. If the wipers don't work on any speed and the fuse is good, the motor is the most likely cause. A complete failure of the switch is less common.
What is the most common mistake when ordering this part?
The most common mistake is not verifying the electrical connector. While the motor for the 2008-2011 GS350 is fairly standard, always compare the connector on the new part to your old one before installation. The GS350 wiper motor uses a 5-pin connector.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 85110-30590 85110-30520 8511033330
Position: Front; Terminal Quantity: 5
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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.
- Lexus GS350: