Wiper Motor Replacement on a Semi Truck

Semi truck wiper motor replacement costs between $200 and $800 in 2026, depending on your truck model and whether you need a single motor or dual motor system. Most Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks use dual motors that cost $150-$400 each, while Freightliner and International models often use single heavy-duty motors ranging from $300-$600. Labor adds another $100-$200 to the total bill.

How Do You Know Your Wiper Motor Is Failing?

The first sign of wiper motor failure is **slow or jerky movement** across the windshield. Your wipers might start strong but slow down halfway through the sweep, or they'll pause and restart randomly. In our shop, we see this problem at least three times a week during winter months.

Other warning signs include wipers that only work on one speed setting, wipers that stop in the middle of the windshield instead of parking properly, or a burning smell when you turn them on. If you hear grinding or clicking noises from behind the dashboard, that's usually the motor gears wearing out.

The worst-case scenario is complete failure during a rainstorm. We've had drivers call our 24/7 emergency service because their wipers died on I-81 in heavy rain, making it impossible to see the road safely.

What Makes Semi Truck Wiper Motors Different?

Semi truck wiper motors handle much more stress than car wipers. **Your windshield is 4-5 times larger** than a car's, and highway speeds create constant wind resistance against the wiper blades. Most semi wipers also run at higher torque settings to clear road spray and debris.

Dual motor systems split the workload between two smaller motors, one for each side of the windshield. Single motor systems use one heavy-duty motor with a more complex linkage system to move both wipers. Neither design is better - it depends on your truck manufacturer's preference.

The motors themselves are 12-volt or 24-volt depending on your truck's electrical system. Getting the wrong voltage will either burn out the motor immediately or give you weak wiper performance that won't clear water properly.

If your wipers are moving slowly or making noise, don't wait for complete failure. Call Skyliner Truck Center at (570) 655-2805 and we'll test the motor and wiring before you get stuck in bad weather.

Semi Truck Wiper Motor Replacement Cost Breakdown

**Parts costs** vary significantly by truck brand and year. Here's what we typically see for common models:

Labor costs depend on motor location and dashboard access. Some trucks require removing the entire dashboard panel to reach the motor, while others have easy access panels. Expect 2-3 hours of labor for most replacements.

Can You Replace a Wiper Motor Yourself?

**Basic electrical knowledge is required** for any wiper motor replacement. You'll need to disconnect the battery, remove wiring harnesses, and test the new motor before final installation. The physical work isn't difficult, but getting the wiring wrong can damage your truck's electrical system.

If you're mechanically inclined, you can handle the removal and installation. However, testing the wiper switch, checking for voltage drops in the wiring, and diagnosing intermittent problems requires shop equipment that most drivers don't carry.

We recommend professional installation if your truck is still under warranty, if you're not comfortable with electrical work, or if the motor failure happened alongside other electrical problems. Sometimes what looks like a bad motor is actually a faulty wiper switch or corroded wiring.

How Long Should a Semi Truck Wiper Motor Last?

Most semi truck wiper motors last **150,000 to 300,000 miles** with normal use. Highway drivers who rarely use their wipers might get 400,000+ miles, while drivers in rainy climates or construction zones might need replacement every 100,000 miles.

The biggest factor is how often you run your wipers on dry glass. Even light dust requires washer fluid to prevent scratching. Running wipers on dry windshields puts maximum stress on the motor and wears out the gears quickly.

Extreme temperatures also affect motor life. Motors work harder in freezing weather when ice builds up on the windshield, and desert heat breaks down the internal lubricants faster. Regular preventive maintenance includes checking wiper motor operation during your PM service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does semi truck wiper motor replacement take?

Semi truck wiper motor replacement takes 2-3 hours depending on your truck model and motor location. Single motor systems are usually faster to replace than dual motor setups. If wiring repairs are needed, add another 1-2 hours to the job.

Will a bad wiper motor drain my truck battery?

A failing wiper motor can draw excessive current and drain your battery overnight. If the motor is seized or has internal shorts, it may continue drawing power even when turned off. This is why intermittent wiper problems should be diagnosed quickly.

Can I use aftermarket wiper motors on my semi truck?

Aftermarket wiper motors work fine if they match your truck's voltage and mounting specifications. OEM motors typically last longer but cost 30-50% more than quality aftermarket units. Avoid cheap motors that don't meet the original torque specifications.

Where can I get wiper motor replacement in Northeast PA?

Skyliner Truck Center in Pittston handles wiper motor replacement for all semi truck brands. We stock motors for Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and International trucks. Located inside the Pilot Travel Center on PA-315, we're accessible from I-81 and I-84.

Skyliner Truck Center has been fixing semi truck electrical problems for over 70 years. If your wiper motor is acting up or has failed completely, call us at (570) 655-2805 or stop by the Pilot Travel Center on PA-315. We'll get your wipers working properly before the next storm hits.