2006-2011 Hyundai Azera Windshield Wiper Motor: Diagnosis and Replacement Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Wiper Motor

For the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera, wiper motor failures are typically due to normal age and wear rather than a specific design flaw. The symptoms are consistent with general electric motor failure. If you experience any of the following, your wiper motor may need to be replaced.

• Slow Wiper Operation: The wipers move across the windshield sluggishly, even on the fastest setting. This can indicate that the motor's internal components are worn and struggling to provide enough power.
• Only One Speed Works: You may find that the high-speed setting works, but the low-speed or intermittent settings have failed. This often points to a problem with the motor's internal circuitry.
• Wipers Won't Park Correctly: When you turn the wipers off, they stop immediately in the middle of the windshield instead of returning to their proper resting position. This is a classic sign of a failed park switch inside the motor assembly.
• No Movement at All: The wipers do not move when you activate the switch. You might hear a faint humming or buzzing sound from the motor, indicating it's receiving power but is seized internally. If you hear nothing, the issue could be the motor, the fuse, or the switch itself.
• Humming or Grinding Noises: Unusual sounds from the base of the windshield when the wipers are turned on suggest the motor is damaged or its internal gears are stripped.

How to Diagnose the Problem

Before condemning the motor, perform a few simple checks:

1. Check the Fuse: The first step is always to check the wiper fuse in the fuse panel. A blown fuse is a simple fix, but if it blows again immediately, it signals a deeper electrical problem, such as a seized motor drawing too much current.
2. Listen for the Motor: Turn the ignition on (without starting the engine) and activate the wipers. If you hear a humming sound, the motor is getting power but is likely jammed or burned out. If there is complete silence, the problem could be the fuse, the switch, or the wiring.
3. Test for Power: For a more definitive diagnosis, you can use a multimeter to test for voltage at the motor's electrical connector. After removing the cowl panel to access the motor, disconnect the connector. With the ignition and wiper switch on, test the appropriate pins on the connector for 12-volt power. If 12 volts are present but the motor doesn't run, the motor has failed. If there is no voltage, the problem lies upstream with the switch, relay, or wiring.

Buying a Used 2006-2011 Azera Wiper Motor

A recycled OEM wiper motor is an excellent, cost-effective alternative to an expensive new dealer part. Since there are no widespread defects for this specific motor, a used unit from a reputable seller is a reliable choice. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify the Part Number: The primary OEM part number for the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera is 98110-3L000. Always confirm this number to ensure direct compatibility.
• Inspect the Connector: Look closely at the electrical connector on the motor. The pins should be straight and clean, with no signs of corrosion (green or white powder) or melted plastic.
• Check the Output Shaft: Examine the splined metal shaft where the wiper linkage attaches. The splines should be sharp and well-defined. Avoid a motor if this shaft is heavily rusted or if the splines look stripped, as the wiper linkage may not engage properly.
• Consider Mileage: If possible, choose a motor from a vehicle with lower mileage. While these motors are durable, a part with 75,000 miles will naturally have more remaining service life than one from a car with 180,000 miles.
• Ask About Warranty: Reputable sellers of used parts will offer a warranty. This protects you in case the part is defective.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai or the NHTSA related to windshield wiper motor failure on the 2006-2011 Azera. Failures that occur are generally due to standard wear and tear over the vehicle's life.

However, this generation of Azera has been subject to several important safety recalls for other components, including:

• ABS Module Fire Risk (NHTSA 18V026000): Water can enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) module, potentially causing an electrical short and an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is off.
• Rear Crossmember Corrosion: In states with road salt usage, the rear crossmember could corrode, potentially leading to the detachment of a rear control arm.

It is highly recommended that any owner check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website to ensure these critical safety recalls have been performed.

Replacement Information

Replacing the wiper motor on a 2006-2011 Azera is a straightforward job for a DIYer with basic tools.

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
• Tools Needed: Socket set, ratchet, trim removal tool (or flathead screwdriver), penetrating oil.

Abbreviated Replacement Steps

1. Mark and Remove Wiper Arms: Use tape on the windshield to mark the parked position of the wipers. Remove the plastic caps at the base of the wiper arms and undo the nuts. You may need to gently rock the arms back and forth to free them from the splined posts.
2. Remove the Cowl Cover: Remove the weatherstripping and several plastic fasteners holding the large plastic cowl cover at the base of the windshield.
3. Access the Motor: With the cowl removed, the wiper motor and linkage assembly will be visible. Disconnect the electrical connector from the motor.
4. Unbolt the Assembly: Remove the bolts securing the entire motor and linkage assembly to the vehicle's firewall.
5. Swap the Motor: Once the assembly is out, unbolt the old motor from the linkage and attach the new one. Make sure to orient the new motor in the same position as the old one.
6. Reassembly: Installation is the reverse of removal. Before putting the cowl back on, briefly reconnect the motor and cycle the wipers on and off to ensure the motor parks in the correct position. Then, attach the linkage and reinstall the wiper arms in the position you marked earlier.

Cost Comparison

The cost for a replacement wiper motor can vary significantly depending on the type of part you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)