Wiper motor - how to test

So I’m refitting my cabrio after restoration….
I have a choice of two wiper motors, how do I test them to check working condition?
I have plugged both into the car and neither shows signs of life, but this could be issues with the wiring in the car since it’s been stood 10 years, I would like to fit a known working wiper motor and then try and fault find from there….




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Test the motors out of the car.

Ground on the Brown wire.
Then one at a time apply voltage to the remaining  wires one at a time 53 and 53B.  You should have 2 speeds on the motor the other 2 wires that are usually 53E and 53A are the wiper motor return to park.

I would worry about the motor having 2 speeds first, then the return as the motor has a inbuilt self park switch…for the 53A, and 53E.

The other issues that I have seen are either the relay, or the washer/wiper stalk that are out of alignment. causing the washer jet or the intermittent to not work.

Thanks briano, really helpful - I’ve tested both motors, one is seized but the other works with two speeds… so on with the working one!!
I’ve just got to find out why power doesn’t get there when switched, I’ll check the fuse and go from there…


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Oh what a delight !!!



Can anyone tell me what I have here (apart from a headache!)
Which relay does what?


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The mashed up one has a number 1 on it btw, and that’s me trying to dig it out of its rust nest


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this might help - https://clubgti.com/forums/index.php?threads/fusebox-faq.219775/#post-1945613

No1 relay is for you inlet manifold heater.

While you are digging it out CAREFULLY, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you to take care of the water intrusions which caused it.

Usual places are but not limited to:
Antenna feed through not having a drip stop loop:


And the usual seal around the window frame as well as holes in the Rain tray or grommets.

Thanks guys,

super fast and valuable information, thanks a lot…,,,!!