Subaru WRX Wiper Motor Guide for 2012-2014 Models
If your WRX wipers are slow, noisy, or won't park correctly, your wiper motor may be failing.
- Common failure symptoms include slow operation, being stuck on one speed, and wipers not parking correctly.
- Always clear ice or snow from the windshield before use to avoid straining the motor and creating an overheating risk.
- Before replacing the motor, check the wiper fuse and inspect the wiper linkage for worn or seized joints.
- Aftermarket motors are affordable, but OEM offers the most reliable quality; some remanufactured brands have poor reviews.
Is Your Wiper Motor Failing? Common Symptoms
A failing wiper motor on a 2012-2014 WRX will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them can leave you without working wipers in bad weather. Look out for these symptoms:
- Slow Operation: The wipers move sluggishly across the windshield, even on the highest speed setting. This can be caused by internal wear or electrical resistance in an aging motor.
- Only One Speed Works: You might lose your intermittent settings or the ability to switch between low and high speed. This often points to a problem inside the motor's control circuit.
- Wipers Don't Park Correctly: When you turn the wipers off, they should stop at the base of the windshield. A bad motor might cause them to stop in the middle of the glass.
- No Movement or Humming Noises: The most obvious sign is when the wipers don't move at all. You might hear a humming or buzzing sound from the motor, which means it's getting power but is mechanically stuck.
- Wipers Stop and Start: The wipers may jam or pause in the middle of a wipe, which can be caused by an overheating motor or an internal electrical problem.
Known Issue: Overheating Risk
Subaru issued a safety recall for other models from this era (2010-2014 Legacy and Outback) for a wiper motor defect. If the wipers were blocked by heavy snow or ice, the motor could continuously try to return to its park position. This could cause the motor's bottom cover to overheat, melt, and become a fire risk. While the WRX was not officially part of this recall, the design is similar. Always clear obstructions from your windshield before using your wipers to prevent motor strain.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wiper Motor
When replacing your wiper motor, you have a choice between OEM and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are the same as the ones your car came with from the factory, but they are the most expensive option. Aftermarket parts can offer good quality for a lower price.
For your 2012-2014 WRX, you will find brands like Cardone and value-focused 'Replacement' brands.
- Cardone: Cardone is a well-known brand that offers both new and remanufactured parts. While they are a budget-friendly option, some users in automotive forums have reported issues with the quality and longevity of their remanufactured units, citing noise and early failure. Consider this a value-tier option where quality may vary.
- Replacement: This is typically a house brand or a generic part that offers the lowest price point. These parts are built to function like the original but may not have the same long-term durability as a new OEM unit. They are a practical choice if your main goal is to get the wipers working on a tight budget.
Pro Tip: Check the Wiper Linkage
Before you replace the motor, inspect the wiper linkage (also called the transmission). This is the set of arms that connects the motor to your wipers. The bushings in the linkage can wear out or seize, causing the wipers to move slowly or get stuck. Sometimes, a new linkage is all that's needed to fix the problem.
Wiper Motor Replacement Cost for 2012-2014 Subaru WRX
The cost to replace your wiper motor depends on the type of part you choose and whether you do the job yourself or hire a professional mechanic.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Motor | $230 - $280 |
| New Aftermarket Motor | $79 - $223 |
| Used OEM Motor | $35 - $90 |
| Shop Labor | $125 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace a WRX wiper motor myself?
No, it is a DIY-friendly job for most people with basic hand tools. The process involves removing the wiper arms, the plastic cowl cover, and then unbolting the motor assembly. The most common difficulty is removing the wiper arms from their splines, which usually requires some firm wiggling. The entire job takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
My wipers are acting strange, but the motor isn't making noise. What else could it be?
First, always check the fuse for the wiper system. If the fuse is good, the problem could be the wiper switch on the steering column. A TSB for similar Subaru models noted that a faulty switch could cause wipers to move on their own or not park correctly. Also, check for a bad ground wire, as this can cause intermittent failure.
Do I need to replace the wiper linkage with the motor?
Not usually. The motor and linkage are typically sold as separate parts. You can unbolt your old motor and attach the new one to your existing linkage. However, you should inspect the linkage pivot points for corrosion or binding and replace it if it doesn't move freely.
Can I buy a used wiper motor?
Yes, a used OEM motor is a cost-effective option. You can often find them from online sellers or local auto recyclers for a low price. If you buy a used motor, make sure the electrical connector is clean and free of corrosion before installing it.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 86511FG010
The front wiper motor is located under the plastic cowl panel between the hood and the windshield. It is typically secured with three 10mm bolts and connects to the wiper linkage assembly.
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.
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