2003 Pontiac Grand Prix Windshield wipers

SCOTTWOLLESEN

MEMBER
2003 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
70,000 MILES

Guys, This is my first time useing this site. I think it is a great thing but I have been burned by similar "donation" sites. I have every intention of paying for quality advice so please understand my consumer caution.
My windshield wipers work fine on normal and high speed but are erratica and unpredictable on the delay settings. Sometimes they will delay perfectly for fifteen minutes then kick into normal speed for a while and back and forth on their own. The issue is with all delay speeds only, like I said, normal and high speed work fine. They also act confused, for a lack of a better word, for a moment trying to park when turned off from one of the delay settings. Any ideas? Thanks in advance for your expertice.
Scott

8 Replies

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Based on experience and description, the wiper control module that is located on the top of the motor is bad.

IF you have a DVOM, we can test the system.

36k-690k ohms is the value needed between the windsheild washer/wiper switch from the signal 1 circuit terminal to the accessory voltage supply circuit terminal in the switch side connector when you operate the switch through out the delay speeds from high to low.

If it isn't it needs a switch, if it is, it needs the module.

The module can be purchased aftermarket through NAPA and probably others for the same price as the module through the dealer, but you may want to verify that. I would put the whole unit on myself.

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Saturday, March 29th, 2008 AT 5:28 PM

SCOTTWOLLESEN

MEMBER
11 POSTS

Unfortunatley I am weak in my knowledge of electrical trouble shooting and only have a pocket electrical tester. I am going to replace the module. It is only $50 and it makes enough sence that it is a worth while shot. Unfortunatly today I purchased the module in advance from the local Autozone. That had to ask me who makes the Grand Prix. Got home, dug out the wiper motor and discovered they gave me the wrong part (go figure) and can't get the right one until the 3rd. So if the Pontiac dealer doesn't have one tomorrow I won't know if this works for a few days.

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Monday, March 31st, 2008 AT 12:18 AM

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Yeah the aftermarket has some modules. But that particular one is still in the making from what I have found. I believe dorman products has a part number but it is still in production and not released. I got burned the same way a month ago.

So it came down to a whole motor/module from napa or for a similiar cost the module from the dealer. The napa one had a lifetime warranty the module only a 12/12.

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Monday, March 31st, 2008 AT 5:22 AM

SCOTTWOLLESEN

MEMBER
11 POSTS

Oh really. Crap. Unfortunately the dealer AND NAPA were both closed yesterday (Sunday). Schucks said they did have a Dorman part number just like you said and if your right, only THINK they can order it.
Well I sure as heck hope it ends up being the control module and not the switch if I have to replace the whole motor/module.
I sure do appreciate your help

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Monday, March 31st, 2008 AT 10:56 AM

SCOTTWOLLESEN

MEMBER
11 POSTS

NAPA was able to order the module and receive it in one day. I installed it and now my wipers work perfect. Thank you so much for your help. This service is invaluable to military men like myself that can not afford $80 per hour in labor charges.
Unfortunatley I have only been given 0.3 points and a minimum of 1.0 is required to award your excellent service.
I will say that I would recommend Service Writer to anyone. Thank you so much for your assistance.
Scott