2009-2014 Nissan Murano Windshield Wiper Motor: Diagnosing Failures and Replacement Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Wiper Motor

A failing wiper motor can present several distinct symptoms. Pinpointing the exact symptom can help you determine if the motor itself is the problem, or if another part of the wiper system is at fault.

Wipers Don't Move, But You Hear a Humming Noise

If you turn on the wipers and hear the motor humming or whirring but the arms don't move, the motor itself is likely working. The problem is probably a mechanical one within the wiper linkage (also called the transmission). The plastic bushings that connect the motor to the linkage arms can wear out and pop off, disconnecting the motor from the arms.

Wipers Don't Move and There is No Sound

This indicates a lack of power to the motor. The simplest cause is a blown fuse. If the fuse is good, the problem could be the motor itself has burned out, a faulty wiper switch, or a break in the wiring.

Wipers Move Slowly or Erraticly

If the wipers struggle to move across the windshield, especially on a dry or lightly wet surface, or if they speed up and slow down unpredictably, the motor may be wearing out. Internal components can fail, or the motor may be overheating. This can also happen if the wiper linkage is binding.

Wipers Only Work on One Speed

If your wipers only function on the highest speed setting, this often points to a failure in the motor's internal circuitry. Most wiper motors have a resistor or module that controls the different speed settings; when it fails, only the high-speed setting (which often bypasses the resistor) will work.

Wipers Stop in the Wrong Position

When you turn the wipers off, they should automatically return to their "parked" position at the bottom of the windshield. If they stop in the middle of the glass or wherever they happen to be when you hit the switch, it usually indicates a problem with the motor's internal park switch or related circuitry.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of early 2026, there are no widespread recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan directly addressing a design flaw with the front wiper motor for the 2009-2014 Murano. Most failures are due to normal wear and tear over time. The most commonly reported issue in forums is not the motor itself, but the plastic bushings on the wiper linkage breaking, which causes the wipers to stop moving even though the motor is still running.

Diagnosing the Problem: Motor, Linkage, or Fuse?

Before spending money on a new motor, follow these steps to diagnose the issue:

1. Check the Fuse: This is the easiest and most common fix. Locate the fuse box and find the fuse for the wipers. Your owner's manual will show its location. If the fuse 🎬 Watch: How to find the front wiper motor fuse location. is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage. If the new fuse blows immediately, you have a short circuit in the motor or wiring that needs further investigation.
2. Listen for the Motor: Turn the wipers on and listen carefully near the base of the windshield. If you hear a humming sound, the motor is getting power, and the problem is almost certainly a broken or disconnected wiper linkage.
3. Test the Electrical Connector: If you hear no sound and the fuse is good, the next step is to test for power at the motor. This requires accessing the motor by removing the cowl panel. Using a test light or multimeter, you can check if power is reaching the motor's electrical connector when the wiper switch is turned on. If there is power and a good ground connection at the plug, but the motor doesn't run, the motor itself has failed and needs to be replaced.

Buying a Used Windshield Wiper Motor

A used OEM wiper motor can be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive new parts. Here’s what to look for:

• Inspect the Connector: Check the electrical connector pins for any signs of corrosion, melting, or damage. A clean connector is a good sign.
• Check the Output Shaft: Look at the splined or keyed shaft where the linkage arm attaches. Ensure the splines are not stripped or worn down, as this can cause the wipers to slip.
• Verify Compatibility: Match the part number on the motor if possible, or ensure the seller guarantees fitment for a 2009-2014 Murano. The physical shape and connector should be identical.
• Mileage and Warranty: Ask for the mileage of the donor vehicle if possible. Lower mileage is always better. Reputable sellers should offer a warranty (typically 30-90 days) to protect you against a part that is dead on arrival. A used OEM motor often has better internal components and a longer lifespan than the cheapest new aftermarket alternatives.

Replacement Overview

Replacing the wiper motor is a moderately difficult job that a patient DIYer can accomplish. The main challenge is removing the plastic cowl without damaging it.

1. Remove the plastic caps at the base of the wiper arms and undo the nuts. The arms may be stuck on the splined posts; gently rocking them while pulling upwards will usually free them.
2. Carefully remove the plastic cowl panel that sits between the windshield and the hood. It is held in by clips and can be brittle.
3. Disconnect the motor's electrical harness.
4. Unbolt the entire wiper motor and linkage assembly and remove it from the vehicle.
5. On a workbench, unbolt the motor from the linkage assembly.
6. Install the new motor onto the linkage assembly.
7. Crucial Step: Before reinstalling the assembly in the car, temporarily plug in the new motor and cycle the wipers on and off once with the switch in the car. This allows the motor to find its correct "park" position. Failure to do this will result in the wipers parking in the wrong spot.
8. Reinstall the assembly, cowl, and wiper arms in the reverse order of removal.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step wiper transmission and motor replacement guide.

Cost Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)