Dakota 2WD V8-4.7L Flex Fuel (2009)
Wiper Relay: Description and Operation
ON and OFF Wiper Relay - Operation
OPERATION
The wiper on/off relay is an electromechanical switch that uses a low current input from the Front Control Module (FCM) to control a high current
output to the wiper motor. The movable common feed contact point is held against the fixed normally closed contact point by spring pressure. When the
relay coil is energized, an electromagnetic field is produced by the coil windings. This electromagnetic field draws the movable relay contact point away
from the fixed normally closed contact point, and holds it against the fixed normally open contact point. When the relay coil is de-energized, spring
pressure returns the movable contact point back against the fixed normally closed contact point. A resistor is connected in parallel with the relay coil in
the relay, and helps to dissipate voltage spikes and electromagnetic interference that can be generated as the electromagnetic field of the relay coil
collapses.
The wiper on/off relay terminals are connected to the vehicle electrical system through a connector receptacle in the Integrated Power Module (IPM).
The inputs and outputs of the wiper on/off relay include:
-
Common Feed Terminal - The common feed terminal (30) is connected to the common feed terminal of the wiper high/low relay at all times
through the wiper on/off relay output circuit.
-
Coil Ground Terminal - The coil ground terminal (85) is connected to a control output of the Front Control Module (FCM) through a wiper
on/off relay control circuit. The FCM controls wiper motor operation by controlling a ground path through this circuit.
-
Coil Battery Terminal - The coil battery terminal (86) receives battery current at all times from a fuse in the IPM through a fused ignition switch
output (run-acc) circuit.
-
Normally Open Terminal - The normally open terminal (87) receives battery current at all times from a fuse in the IPM through a fused ignition
switch output (run-acc) circuit, and provides battery current to the wiper on/off relay output circuit whenever the relay is energized.
-
Normally Closed Terminal - The normally closed terminal (87A) is connected to ground at all times through a take out of the headlamp and dash
wire harness with an eyelet terminal connector that is secured by a screw to the front end sheet metal, and is connected to the wiper on/off relay
output circuit whenever the relay is de-energized.
The wiper on/off relay as well as the hard wired inputs and outputs of the relay may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information.
