2003 Sierra Wiper Problem

butlerw · July 3, 2006

I know this is a topic that has been talked about a lot but I can't seem to find specific information that I need to fix my issue. I have a 2003 Sierra which seems to be having the dreaded wiper motor circuit board issue. The only way I can get the wipers to turn off is the to pull the fuse. Anyway, I bought a replacement wiper controller assembly (the circuit board) from GM Parts Direct (part #88958136 I thnk). It came with very basic instructions but does not explain where the location of the wiper motor (controller) is. I've looked in the forums here and other places the only link I have found is for an older pickup truck. The instructions/photos found do not look anything like my truck. Anyway, I thought this was located on the drivers side firewall near the top. I see a black box but it looks nothing like what I'm trying to replace. If someone could help me pinpoint the location of the wiper motor assembly that would be great. I'm pretty new to this stuff but I know if I can locate it I can easily swap out the board.

Thanks in advance!

Wade

ken1mod · July 3, 2006

most wiper motors have a parking switch built into them that is cam operated. I don't know what this controller board does but I bet when you find the motor, if you disassemble it you will find this switch assembly. see if you can adjust/fix it.

Ken

J45p3r · July 3, 2006

Dude, I had the SAME problem on my 2003 Sierra. The motor is under the cowl so you need to take the wiper arm off and a few screws.

HOWEVER, I couldn't get the wiper arm off. I think you need a special puller or something. So, after messing and banging on the arm, I put it back together ready to take it to a shop to have the part installed. But, after all the banging I did, IT WORKED FINE. I took the part back, and it's been good ever since (3 months or so).

silverado3500 · July 4, 2006

IIRC you have to tilt the wipers back (they are hinged), and then there is a little metal tab that will release the wiper blade from the shank.

J45p3r · July 4, 2006

IIRC you have to tilt the wipers back (they are hinged), and then there is a little metal tab that will release the wiper blade from the shank.

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That's what I thought, too, but I couldn't find the tab. That's how it was on the OBS I think.

butlerw · July 4, 2006

Dude, I had the SAME problem on my 2003 Sierra. The motor is under the cowl so you need to take the wiper arm off and a few screws.

HOWEVER, I couldn't get the wiper arm off. I think you need a special puller or something. So, after messing and banging on the arm, I put it back together ready to take it to a shop to have the part installed. But, after all the banging I did, IT WORKED FINE. I took the part back, and it's been good ever since (3 months or so).

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Thanks for the info. I think I can fix it now and if not I guess it will be going to the dealership this week. It's lousy that something as stupid as the windshield wipers stopped working at 30k miles. I'm assuming this is not covered under warranty since I'm over the 3 years by 7 months...