Wiper and Washer Systems: Description and Operation

2012 Ford Escape 2WD L4-2.5LSECTION Description and Operation



Wipers and Washers

The wipers and washers system consists of the following:

- Washer fluid hoses

- Windshield wiper blade

- Windshield wiper pivot arm

- Windshield wiper mounting arm and pivot shaft

- Windshield wiper motor

- Windshield washer reservoir

- Windshield (2-way) washer pump

- Check valves (integral to the washer pump)

- Multifunction switch

- Rear window wiper blade

- Rear window wiper arm

- Rear window wiper motor

The wiper system is activated by the multifunction switch. The multifunction switch provides input to the front wiper motor module to activate wash, low, high and intermittent modes. The multifunction switch also provides input to the rear wiper module to activate wash, INT 1 and INT 2 modes. The wiper motors contain relays that are not serviceable separately.

The front and rear washer system shares the same washer reservoir and washer pump. The front and rear wiper motor module integral electronics control the direction of the washer pump to direct washer fluid to the windshield or rear window.

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

If equipped with automatic headlamps, the SJB (Smart Junction Box) will illuminate the exterior lamps, including the parking lamps within 10 seconds, when the front wipers are active and the headlamp control is in the AUTOLAMP position. When the wipers are turned off, the exterior lamps will remain on for 30 seconds before turning off.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.