How To Replace Wiper Transmission 00-05 Ford Focus

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 60 min · Ford Focus

Replace a worn or broken wiper transmission linkage, including swapping the motor over, on a 2000-2005 Ford Focus.

Steps

1. Remove the wiper arms

   Lift the small cap at the base of each arm, remove the 13mm nut underneath, then rock each arm side to side while pulling to walk it off its splined post.

2. Pop off the cowl panels

   Press in the retaining tabs along the top edge of the cowl and lift both panels free to expose the wiper motor and linkage.

3. Unbolt the old wiper transmission

   Unplug the motor's wiring harness, remove the three 8mm bolts securing the linkage and the 8mm bolts on the plastic shield, pull the brace back, then lift the linkage out through the front of the cowl area.

4. Separate the motor from the old transmission

   Remove the 10mm bolt holding the drive arm to the motor shaft, pry the arm free with a screwdriver, then remove the three 10mm bolts holding the motor to its base plate.

5. Mount the motor on the new transmission

   Bolt the motor to the new transmission's base plate with its three 10mm bolts, then reconnect the drive arm to the motor shaft with its 10mm bolt.

6. Reinstall the transmission assembly

   Feed the linkage back in from the front, seat its mounting post in the brace, replace the 8mm bolts on the transmission and plastic shield, and reconnect the wiring harness.

7. Refit the cowl panels

   Snap both cowl panels back into place, then cycle the wipers once to confirm smooth operation before closing everything up.

8. Reinstall the wiper arms

   Push each arm onto its post in its correct resting position, then replace the 13mm nut and snap the cap back over it.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.