This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield wiper linkage assembly on a 2021-2024 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine, including wiper motor and pivot connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Linkage pivot grommets (if deteriorated) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl seal (if damaged during removal) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Mark wiper blade positions on windshield using masking tape for reinstallation reference
4. Open hood and support with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. Locate the small locking tab at the base of each wiper arm near the pivot. Lift the tab and pull the wiper arm straight off the pivot post. If tight, use a wiper arm removal tool to apply even pressure. Remove both driver and passenger side wiper arms.
3. 3

   Remove cowl vent panel
   Remove the rubber weatherstrip seal from the cowl area. Using a trim panel removal tool, carefully pry up the plastic retaining clips securing the cowl vent grille panel. There are typically 8-10 clips along the panel. Lift the cowl panel up and away from the vehicle, being careful not to crack the plastic. Disconnect any washer hoses if attached to the panel.
4. 4

   Remove cowl screen and access covers
   Remove the plastic cowl screen sections to expose the wiper motor and linkage assembly. Remove the screws securing any access covers over the wiper motor area using a 10mm socket. Set covers and screws aside in a clean area.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the motor assembly. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage. If connector screws are present, remove them first.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three bolts securing the wiper motor to the mounting bracket. Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Disconnect linkage from motor crank arm
   Locate the linkage connection to the wiper motor crank arm. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully pry the linkage ball socket off the motor crank arm ball stud. Note the orientation of the linkage for reassembly.
8. 8

   Remove linkage pivot nuts
   Locate the pivot nuts securing the linkage assembly to the cowl. These are typically found at the driver and passenger side pivot points where the wiper arms attach. Using a 13mm socket, remove the pivot nuts from both sides. Keep track of any washers or spacers.
   Torque spec

   Linkage Pivot Nuts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   Carefully maneuver the wiper linkage assembly up and out of the cowl area. The linkage may need to be angled or rotated to clear the cowl opening. Inspect the pivot grommets and bushings for wear or deterioration. Remove and replace if damaged.
10. 10

    Install new wiper linkage assembly
    Position the new or replacement linkage assembly into the cowl area, ensuring pivot points align with mounting holes. Install new pivot grommets if the old ones were worn. Thread the pivot studs through the cowl mounting holes.
11. 11

    Secure linkage pivot nuts
    Install the pivot nuts onto both driver and passenger side pivot studs. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper threading, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure any washers or spacers are reinstalled in their original positions.
    Torque spec

    Linkage Pivot Nuts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Connect linkage to motor and install motor
    Snap the linkage ball socket onto the wiper motor crank arm ball stud, ensuring it is fully seated. Position the motor assembly to the mounting bracket and install the three mounting bolts. Torque bolts to specification in a star pattern to ensure even mounting.
    Torque spec

    Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical and test
    Reconnect the wiper motor electrical connector, ensuring it clicks into place. If connector screws were removed, reinstall and torque to specification. Temporarily reconnect the battery negative terminal and test wiper operation before final assembly. Wipers should move smoothly through full range without binding.
    Torque spec

    Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall cowl components
    Disconnect battery again for safety. Reinstall access covers and cowl screen sections, securing with screws and torquing to specification. Reinstall the cowl vent grille panel, ensuring all clips are fully seated. Reconnect any washer hoses. Install the rubber weatherstrip seal along the cowl.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
15. 15

    Reinstall wiper arms and reconnect battery
    Align wiper arms to the marked positions on the windshield. Press wiper arms firmly onto the pivot posts until the locking tabs engage. Verify arms are secure. Reconnect and torque the battery negative terminal. Clear any fault codes if necessary. Test wiper operation in all speeds including intermittent and verify proper park position.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all cowl panel clips are fully seated to prevent wind noise
2. Verify wiper arms are positioned in their original locations using the masking tape marks
3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully locked in place
4. Verify no tools or parts were left in the cowl area before closing hood

Verification

• Test wipers in all speed settings (intermittent, low, high) and verify smooth operation without binding or unusual noise
• Verify wipers park in correct position when turned off
• Check for proper wiper blade contact across entire windshield sweep
• Test washer spray function if washer hoses were disconnected
• Verify no water leaks into cowl area during car wash or rain
• Confirm no rattles or loose panels from cowl area while driving

More procedures for this vehicle