The windshield wiper motor is responsible for moving a vehicle’s windshield wipers back and forth, keeping the windshield clear of rain, snow, and debris. If the wiper motor is broken, or is not functioning properly, it can greatly affect visibility for the driver, quickly becoming an important safety issue.

Many vehicles with vertical rear windows such as station wagons, SUVs, and minivans often come equipped with a rear wiper motor in addition to the one on the front.

Wiper motors are sealed units that do not require scheduled maintenance, however they can wear out over time or fail suddenly. If this happens it is important to replace the motor right away, as it can be nearly impossible to drive without functioning windshield wipers in wet or snowy conditions.