Wiper Motor - Rear

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the rear wiper motor assembly on a 2015 Kia Forte hatchback, requiring access through the rear liftgate interior trim panel.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear wiper motor assembly × 1 — 98700-A7000 or equivalent
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open rear liftgate and ensure it is securely propped
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts
5. Remove rear wiper arm by lifting protective cap, removing retaining nut, and pulling arm off wiper spindle

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear liftgate interior trim panel
   Using plastic trim removal tools, carefully pry out the trim panel clips starting from the bottom corners and working upward. Remove any visible screws securing the upper portion of the trim panel if present. Disconnect any electrical connectors for liftgate lighting or other accessories before fully removing the panel.
2. 2

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the rear wiper motor electrical connector on the motor housing. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor terminals. Ensure the wiring harness is free and will not be damaged during motor removal.
3. 3

   Remove wiper motor ground wire
   Locate the ground wire attached to the motor mounting bracket or nearby body panel. Remove the ground bolt using a 10mm socket and set aside. Keep the ground wire and bolt together for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Ground Bolt13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Using a 12mm socket, remove the three mounting bolts securing the rear wiper motor assembly to the liftgate. Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the position of any spacers or washers.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor assembly from liftgate
   Carefully pull the wiper motor assembly away from the liftgate, guiding the wiper spindle shaft through the mounting hole in the outer liftgate panel. Inspect the rubber grommet around the spindle shaft for damage or deterioration. Remove and transfer to new motor if in good condition.
6. 6

   Install new wiper motor assembly
   Position the new wiper motor assembly and guide the spindle shaft through the liftgate mounting hole, ensuring the rubber grommet is properly seated. Align the motor mounting holes with the liftgate bracket. Install the three mounting bolts finger-tight before final torquing.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Reconnect ground wire and electrical connector
   Attach the ground wire to the motor bracket or body panel and torque the ground bolt to specification. Connect the electrical connector to the wiper motor, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Verify the connector locking tab is fully engaged.
   Torque spec

   Ground Bolt13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reinstall liftgate trim panel
   Reconnect any electrical connectors for liftgate accessories. Position the trim panel and press firmly at each clip location to seat the clips. Install any screws that were removed and torque to specification if applicable. Verify all clips are fully seated and panel is secure.
9. 9

   Reconnect battery and install wiper arm
   Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Position the wiper arm on the spindle in the correct park position (typically horizontal at bottom of glass). Install the retaining nut and tighten securely. Replace the protective cap.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panel clips are fully seated and panel is flush with liftgate
2. Verify wiper arm is correctly positioned in park position before final tightening
3. Double-check all electrical connections are secure and properly routed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and activate rear wiper to verify motor operates smoothly through all positions
• Test wiper park function to ensure arm returns to correct position when turned off
• Spray rear washer fluid and verify wiper operates correctly with washer function
• Inspect for any abnormal noise, vibration, or binding during operation
• Verify no water leaks around wiper spindle grommet area

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