Wiper Motor - Front

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the front windshield wiper motor assembly on the 2017 Maserati Levante, including cowl panel removal and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front wiper motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper motor gasket/seal × 1 — Usually included with motor

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Move wiper arms to service position (mid-stroke) if possible
4. Disconnect battery negative terminal using 10mm wrench
5. Wait minimum 2 minutes for electrical system discharge
6. Remove both wiper arm assemblies by lifting retaining tab and pulling away from pivot

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove cowl cover panel
   Remove the rubber weather seal along the rear edge of the hood opening. Remove T20 Torx screws securing the cowl cover panel (typically 6-8 screws). Carefully pry up the cowl panel using trim tools, starting at one end and working across. Disconnect any washer hoses attached to the panel. Remove panel and set aside.
2. 2

   Access wiper motor compartment
   With cowl removed, locate the wiper motor assembly on the passenger side of the cowl area. Remove any plastic covers or shields obstructing access to the motor. Note the routing of the wiper linkage for reassembly reference.
3. 3

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector away from the motor. If connector is secured with a screw, remove it first using appropriate driver. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion and clean if necessary.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect ground strap
   Locate the ground strap bolt attached to the wiper motor mounting bracket or motor body. Use wire brush or contact cleaner to note condition of contact surfaces. Remove the ground strap bolt using 10mm socket. Set ground strap aside for reinstallation.
   ℹ️Clean ground contact surfaces thoroughly before reassembly to ensure proper electrical connection.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove wiper linkage connection
   Locate the connection point where the wiper motor drive arm connects to the linkage assembly. Remove the retaining clip or fastener securing this connection (typically a push-on clip or small bolt). Carefully separate the motor drive arm from the linkage without forcing. Support the linkage to prevent it from dropping.
6. 6

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Locate the three wiper motor mounting bolts securing the motor to the cowl structure or mounting bracket. Using 13mm socket, remove all mounting bolts while supporting the motor. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove wiper motor assembly
   Carefully maneuver the wiper motor out of the cowl area. The motor may need to be tilted or rotated to clear surrounding components. Take care not to damage the motor drive arm or surrounding plastic components. Inspect the mounting area for debris or damage.
8. 8

   Install new wiper motor
   Position the new wiper motor in the mounting location, ensuring any locating pins or alignment features are properly seated. Install the three mounting bolts finger-tight initially to allow for alignment adjustment. Verify motor sits flush against mounting surface before final tightening.
9. 9

   Torque mounting bolts
   Using torque wrench, tighten the wiper motor mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating. Verify motor is secure and does not move when pressure is applied.
   ⚠Proper torque is critical - over-tightening can crack mounting brackets or cowl structure.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect wiper linkage
    Align the wiper motor drive arm with the linkage connection point. Install the retaining clip or fastener, ensuring it fully seats and locks the connection. Verify the linkage moves freely without binding and returns to proper position.
11. 11

    Reconnect ground strap and electrical connector
    Clean the ground contact surfaces on both the strap and mounting point using wire brush or contact cleaner. Install ground strap and tighten bolt to specification. Connect the electrical connector to the wiper motor, ensuring it clicks into place. Install any connector securing screws if present and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)

    Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall cowl panel and components
    Apply light grease to wiper linkage pivot points if accessible. Reconnect any washer hoses to the cowl panel. Position cowl panel, ensuring all alignment tabs locate properly. Install cowl panel screws and tighten evenly. Reinstall rubber weather seal along hood opening. Replace any damaged clips during installation.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect battery negative terminal and torque to specification. The vehicle may require initialization procedures after battery disconnect - turn ignition on and allow all systems to cycle. Check for any warning lights or error messages.
    ℹ️Some electronic systems may require relearning procedures after battery reconnection.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall wiper arms in previously marked positions, ensuring splines align properly
2. Verify wiper arm park position is correct before fully tightening arm nuts
3. Top off windshield washer fluid if any was spilled during procedure

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and test wiper operation at all speed settings (intermittent, low, high)
• Verify wipers return to proper park position when switched off
• Test wiper mist function and ensure motor responds correctly
• Check for any unusual noises, binding, or irregular movement during operation
• Verify washer spray function works in conjunction with wiper activation
• Inspect cowl panel fitment and verify no rattles or gaps are present
• Confirm no warning lights remain on instrument cluster

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