Buick Enclave Wiper Motor Guide: 2008-2017 Replacement and Troubleshooting
If your Buick Enclave's wipers are acting up, this guide will help you understand the problem and find the right replacement motor.
- Common failure symptoms include slow operation, only working on high speed, or stopping in the wrong position.
- A safety recall for fire risk affected some 2016 Enclave models due to an overheating wiper motor.
- Replacement is a moderately difficult DIY job (about 1.5 hours) that requires removing the wiper arms and cowl panel.
- Before replacing the motor, always check the fuse and listen for a humming sound to confirm the motor is receiving power.
Is Your Buick Enclave Wiper Motor Failing?
A failing wiper motor on the 2008-2017 Buick Enclave is a common issue. Symptoms often start small but can lead to complete failure, leaving you with no visibility in bad weather. Before you assume the motor is dead, always check the simple things first. Make sure the wiper fuse isn't blown and that the nuts holding the wiper arms are tight. A loose nut was the cause of a recall on some 2011-2012 models.
Known Issues and Recalls
Another recall (NHTSA ID: 12036) affected some 2011-2012 Enclaves in snowy regions. Ice buildup could cause the wiper arm to loosen from the motor, making it stop working. The fix was simply to tighten the wiper arm nuts.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wiper Motor
When replacing your wiper motor, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part from the dealer. Aftermarket parts can offer the same quality for less money. However, not all aftermarket brands are the same. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available for your Enclave:
- Valeo: Valeo is often an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many car brands. Choosing a Valeo aftermarket part is often the closest you can get to dealer quality, offering excellent fit and reliability.
- Cardone: Cardone sells both new and remanufactured wiper motors. Their new parts are often engineered to fix the weak points of the original design. While some users have reported noise or early failure with remanufactured parts from various brands, Cardone's new units are generally a solid choice.
- WAI Global: WAI is a large company that makes many types of aftermarket electrical parts. They are a common mid-range option that provides a balance of price and quality.
- Replacement: This is typically a private-label or generic brand. These motors are designed to be the most affordable option. They will get the job done but may not have the same long-term durability or quiet operation as premium brands.
Wiper Motor Replacement Cost for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave
The cost to replace a wiper motor varies. Doing it yourself saves on labor, but professional installation ensures it's done right. Labor costs at a repair shop are typically between $125 and $185 for this job.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part | $306 - $341 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $84 - $247 |
| Shop Labor | $125 - $185 |
| Total (Professional Install w/ Aftermarket) | $209 - $432 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How difficult is it to replace the Enclave's wiper motor myself?
It is a moderately difficult job for a DIYer. You will need to remove the wiper arms and the large plastic cowl panel at the base of the windshield to access the motor. A special tool called a wiper arm puller is highly recommended to avoid damaging the arms. The entire job takes about 1.5 hours.
My wipers work on high speed but not low speed. Is it the motor?
Yes, this is a classic symptom of a failing wiper motor. The internal electronics that control the different speeds are failing. The motor will need to be replaced soon, as it will likely stop working completely.
My wipers stopped in the middle of the windshield. What does that mean?
This is called a failure to "park." The motor has an internal switch that tells it to return to the bottom of the windshield when you turn the wipers off. When this switch fails, the wipers will stop wherever they are when you turn off the switch. This is a sign that the motor needs to be replaced.
I hear a humming noise but the wipers don't move. What's wrong?
This usually means the motor is getting power but is mechanically jammed or broken. The problem could be the motor itself or the wiper linkage it connects to. In either case, you will need to access the assembly under the cowl to diagnose and replace the failed part.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 25864153 25795300 15254796 12335832 25821246
Fits front windshield. Typically includes a 4-pin male electrical connector. Often sold as a complete assembly with the wiper linkage/transmission.
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.
- Buick Enclave: