Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit/System Description
Wiper Mist, Delay 1-5, and Low are all low speed wiper motor functions that are controlled by the body control module (BCM). When the wiper switch is placed in one of the LOW speed wiper modes, ground is applied through the switch contacts a series of internal resistors and the wiper switch low signal circuit to the BCM. In response to this signal, the BCM energizes the WPR Relay by applying battery voltage through the wiper relay control circuit to the coil side of the relay. This allows battery positive voltage from the WPR fuse to flow through the switch input side of the WPR Relay and out to the switch input side of the WIPER HI Relay. Since the wiper high relay is de-energized and its switch contacts are normally closed to the low speed control circuit of the windshield wiper motor, the motor will operate at low speed.
When the wiper switch is placed in the HIGH speed position, ground is applied through the switch contacts and the wiper switch high signal circuit to the BCM indicating the wiper high speed request. The BCM then energizes WPR Relay as stated above and the WIPER HI Relay by applying ground through the control circuit to the coil side of the relay. With the wiper high relay energized and its switch contacts closed to the high speed control circuit of the wiper motor, the motor will operate at high speed.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.