front wipe relay

[3rd one]

Can anyone tell me if there is a relay in the driver's foot well or steering column or dash that reverses the front wipers direction? Or is it internal in the motor itself? I hear a loud click at the top of the sweep just before it sweeps downward.

 

[2025 Red Equinox]

Can anyone tell me if there is a relay in the driver's foot well or steering column or dash that reverses the front wipers direction? Or is it internal in the motor itself? I hear a loud click at the top of the sweep just before it sweeps downward.

The wiper motor does not reverse direction. It only turns in one direction and is attached to the wiper transmission assembly (which has two wiper arm studs). The wiper arms are a press-fit on the studs.

Most likely you have a failing wiper transmission assembly. It is serviced as an assembly and includes the motor. Usually one of the wiper transmission assembly linkage joints begin to wear and becomes sloppy - thus the loud click noise. It will fail by breaking and disabling the wipers.

It is relatively easy to replace if you have basic mechanical skills. It would also be helpful in your request if you would post the year, make and model of the vehicle - in case anyone has year-specific information.

 

[3rd one]

The wiper motor does not reverse direction. It only turns in one direction and is attached to the wiper transmission assembly (which has two wiper arm studs). The wiper arms are a press-fit on the studs.

Most likely you have a failing wiper transmission assembly. It is serviced as an assembly and includes the motor. Usually one of the wiper transmission assembly linkage joints begin to wear and becomes sloppy - thus the loud click noise. It will fail by breaking and disabling the wipers.

It is relatively easy to replace if you have basic mechanical skills. It would also be helpful in your request if you would post the year, make and model of the vehicle - in case anyone has year-specific information.

Thanks for the info. I thought that being in the Equinox 3rd generation identified it. I have a lot to learn as a newbie. (1st post)

 

[2025 Red Equinox]

Thanks for the info. I thought that being in the Equinox 3rd generation identified it. I have a lot to learn as a newbie. (1st post)

Good luck.

I have replaced several wiper transmission assemblies over the years (motor included) - and several wiper motors that were serviced separately (GM and Dodge). I have never replaced one on an Equinox.

The year of the make and model is important, as someone may be aware of a recall or technical service bulletin (TSB) that may apply to a specific year model.

If you try to replace the assembly yourself, you will need a wiper-arm puller (auto parts store) and various hand tools and a plastic nail puller to remove the black plastic cowl. The wiper motor assembly is underneath, and bolts to the metal (after unplugging the motor).