I've replaced my wiper motor/arm assembly once, probably about 7-9 years ago. Just this past week, I started hearing a not-very-loud-but-noticeable "clunk" noise on every wiper rotation. I'm wondering if I might be nearing the point of having to replace the mechanism again. However, even as I'm typing, I'm also wondering if it might just be a damaged/missing plastic bushing. I guess I'll just have to go ahead and remove the cowl to inspect for the issue.

Has anyone else experienced this same type of symptom? If so, what was the root cause, and how did you fix it?

Replacement options include:
Tousley (AutoNation) = complete NEW OEM assembly for $212 (includes motor)
Lakeland Ford Parts = complete NEW OEM assembly for $123 (includes motor)
Car-Part.com = used OEM assembly for anywhere from $75-$110.

If I do replace, I think I'll just have to go with Lakeland Ford Parts!

 

Something like that I'd go OEM-and Lakeland has GREAT prices!

 

Move to the California, it only rains like a dozen times a year. Wiper gear lasts forever.

But seriously, I'd eyeball the nylon or plastic bushings. Sometimes they can be replaced with "help" bits. That's the usual culprit on other vehicles I've dealt with.

 

You sure the wiper isn't hitting the windshield frame?

 

I, too, have been suspecting a potential bushing issue.

Yep, Rich, no contact with the glass at all. In fact, I've been through two windshield replacements in the past couple of months with no other changes whatsoever. The second replacement glass was a warranty deal because the first replacement had a very slight dip on one edge of the glass exterior surface... just enough to where you could not see it until it rained, and then you could see where the wiper would not even touch the glass right before it stopped wiping near the pillar. You could not feel the dip at all, because both I and the glass techie looked it over and felt it carefully all around before he ever started removing my cracked windshield. As a matter of fact, even the new (second replacement) glass almost has the same defect, but the wiper does actually maintain contact (barely) in that exact same location -- must have been a batch issue when the windshields were formed. I need to replace my blades right now anyway, but have had 100% of my spare time at home consumed with more household renovation projects! Hopefully, I can pull the cowl in the next week or two and get to the bottom of the noise, and then make whatever plans or take whatever steps necessary to get it quiet again.