Wiper and Washer Systems: Description and Operation

Wipers and Washers

NOTE: The Smart Junction Box (SJB) may also be identified as the Generic Electronic Module (GEM).

The wiper and washer system consists of the following:

- Rear window wiper blade
- Rear window wiper pivot arm
- Rear window wiper motor
- Washer pump
- Washer reservoir
- Windshield wiper blades
- Windshield wiper mounting arm and pivot shaft
- Windshield wiper motor
- Windshield wiper pivot arms
- Windshield wiper/wash switch (part of the multifunction switch)

Wipers

The wiper system is activated by the multifunction switch. The multifunction switch provides input to the wiper motor module to activate wash, low, high and intermittent modes. The relays are all integral to the wiper motor module assemblies and are not serviceable separately.

Washers

The washer system consists of the washer reservoir and washer pump. When the multifunction switch is placed into the wash module, the windshield wiper motor integral electronics activate the washer pump to direct washer fluid to the windshield. The washer pump contains an integral check valve to control washer fluid flow-back to the washer reservoir.

If equipped with automatic headlamps, the SJB will illuminate the exterior lamps, including the parking lamps, when the front wipers are active for more then 3 seconds and the headlamp control switch is in the AUTOLAMP position. When the wipers are turned off, the exterior lamps will remain on for 30 seconds before turning off.

When the washer system is activated, the wipers will cycle 3 times with washer fluid, followed by one final wipe a few seconds later to clear ay remaining fluid that is dripping down from the top of the windshield.

The Instrument Cluster (IC) uses a washer fluid level switch to monitor the level of the washer fluid in the washer fluid reservoir. For information on the washer fluid level system, refer to Instrument Panel, Gauges and Warning Indicators.