GMC Savana Wiper Failure: Switch vs Control Module Issue

Had the same problem with my 2013 GMC Sierra last winter. After checking multiple components, the issue turned out to be a corroded connection between the wiper motor and the main wiring harness in the steering column. The wiper blade assembly itself was fine, but the electrical connection had deteriorated over time. The repair required disassembling part of the steering column to access the wiper switch and motor connections. A trained mechanic needed to carefully remove the steering wheel airbag module first, which made this more complex than a typical wiper repair. The wiring harness needed cleaning and the connectors required replacement. This is considered a serious repair due to the steering column and airbag involvement. DIY attempts are not recommended since improper reassembly could affect both the windshield wipers and other steering column functions. The diagnostic code you mentioned often points to either the wiper motor or switch connection issues rather than the switch itself. Having seen identical symptoms, would strongly suggest having this checked by a certified GMC technician who can properly handle the steering column components.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the wiper and steering column repair. Your situation sounds identical to what I am dealing with. Cannot believe how a simple wiper issue can turn into such a complex repair involving the whole wiring harness. Did you remember roughly how much the repair ended up costing? Also curious if the turn signal or any other electrical components have given you trouble since the fix.

Just got back from having this exact issue fixed last week. The repair turned out simpler than my initial concern, it was indeed just a loose connection to the wiper switch, not the complete wiring harness replacement I originally thought might be needed. Total cost came to 95 Euro for fixing the faulty connection. The repair was much less invasive than expected, the mechanic accessed the wiper switch through the steering column without needing to remove the airbag module. All other electrical functions like cruise control and turn signals are working perfectly since the fix. Really glad I had this checked by a professional rather than attempting a DIY solution, given how integrated the wiper switch is with other steering column components. The original symptoms were definitely misleading, making the issue seem more serious than it actually was. Looking back at our similar experiences, these wiper motor connection issues seem fairly common in GMC models from that era. The key is finding someone who knows exactly where to look for the loose connections without tearing apart the entire steering column assembly.

Thanks again for the advice. Finally took my GMC to a certified shop yesterday. The mechanic found the wiper motor connection was loose and corroded inside the steering column, just like you described. They also discovered the rain sensor needed recalibration. The whole repair only took about 2 hours and cost 180 Euro, which included cleaning the connections and testing the windshield wipers system. Much better than the 500 Euro quote my previous mechanic gave for a complete wiper motor replacement. All electrical components are working perfectly now, no issues with turn signals or other controls. The windshield wipers are actually working better than before. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of rushing into an unnecessary major repair. Definitely learned my lesson about finding a trustworthy mechanic who actually diagnoses the real problem rather than just replacing parts. The new shop even showed me the corroded connection so I could understand exactly what needed fixing.