Wiper Motor - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear wiper motor on 2018-2024 Honda Accord models equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear wiper motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper motor grommet/seal × 1 — Often included with motor

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake
2. Turn off the ignition and remove the key
3. Open the rear liftgate/hatch and support it fully
4. Remove the rear wiper arm by lifting the cover cap and removing the retaining nut, then pull the arm off the splined shaft

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove interior trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, locate and carefully pry out the plastic trim clips securing the rear interior trim panel covering the wiper motor area. Use trim panel removal tools to avoid breaking clips. Remove the panel to access the wiper motor mounting area.
2. 2

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the motor body. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the motor terminals. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage.
3. 3

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the wiper motor to the liftgate structure. There are typically 3 bolts holding the motor assembly in place. Support the motor with one hand while removing the final bolt.
   ⚠Support the motor during removal to prevent it from falling and causing damage or injury.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove wiper motor assembly
   Carefully pull the wiper motor assembly away from the liftgate. The motor shaft will slide out through the mounting hole. Remove the rubber grommet/seal from the liftgate if it remains in place.
5. 5

   Inspect and clean mounting area
   Clean the mounting surface on the liftgate where the motor sits. Remove any debris, old sealant, or corrosion. Inspect the mounting hole and surrounding area for cracks or damage.
6. 6

   Install new wiper motor grommet
   Install the new rubber grommet/seal into the mounting hole in the liftgate. Ensure it is properly seated and provides a good weather seal around the motor shaft opening.
7. 7

   Install new wiper motor assembly
   Guide the new wiper motor shaft through the grommet and mounting hole from the inside. Align the motor mounting holes with the threaded bosses on the liftgate structure. Ensure the motor is oriented correctly with the electrical connector accessible.
8. 8

   Secure wiper motor mounting bolts
   Install the three mounting bolts and hand-tighten them first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten the mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating of the motor against the liftgate.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the wiper motor terminals until you hear or feel a positive click. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to confirm it is secure.
10. 10

    Reinstall interior trim panel
    Align the interior trim panel with the mounting locations and press firmly to engage all clips. Verify all clips are fully seated and the panel is flush with surrounding trim.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the wiper arm onto the splined shaft in the parked position, ensuring proper alignment
2. Install and tighten the wiper arm retaining nut, then close the protective cap
3. Test wiper operation in all modes (low, high, intermittent) before closing the liftgate

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ON position and test the rear wiper in all speed settings to verify proper operation
• Check for unusual noise, binding, or erratic movement during operation
• Verify the wiper returns to the correct park position when turned off
• Inspect around the motor mounting area for water leaks after the next car wash or rain
• Confirm all interior trim panels are properly secured with no rattles

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle