How to Replace Windshield Wiper Transmission 99-05 Volkswagen Jetta
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Volkswagen Jetta
Replace the windshield-wiper transmission on a 1999–2005 Volkswagen Jetta, transferring the motor and linkage arms in their correct orientation and aligning the blades after cycling the motor to park.
Tools you will need
- 13mm Socket
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- 10mm Socket
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 13mm Wrench
- Ratchet
Parts and supplies
- Windshield wiper transmission
Steps
- Remove the wiper arms and cowl
Open the hood, remove the arm caps and retaining nuts, and free the arms from their shafts. Peel back the cowl weatherstrip, remove the side panel, and lift the cowl away without bending its edge.
- Unbolt and disconnect the transmission
Remove the transmission mounting bolts and lift the assembly enough to reach its wiring connector. Disconnect the motor harness and remove the linkage from the cowl area.
- Transfer the motor and linkage arms
Mark the old arm positions, then separate the linkage arms and motor from the transmission. Connect the motor to the harness temporarily, cycle it once to its parked position, disconnect power again, and assemble the motor and arms onto the new transmission in the same alignment.
- Install the new transmission
Reconnect the motor harness, lower the assembly into place, and install its mounting bolts to specification. Confirm the harness is routed clear of the linkage before refitting the cowl.
- Refit the cowl and align the arms
Seat the cowl side panel and weatherstrip in their original grooves. Fit the arms to their parked positions, tighten the nuts to specification, replace the caps, and test a full wipe cycle for correct clearance.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.