Classify the failure
All modes dead, only one or more modes dead, always-on, and washer-only complaints each have separate factory symptom paths.
BODY ELECTRICAL · 2002 · WIPER/WASHER
2002 Firebird Wipers Inoperative
Diagnose all-modes, one-mode and intermittent wiper failures as different complaints instead of replacing the motor first.
APPLICATION: 2002 Pontiac Firebird / Formula / Trans Am. Configuration-specific equipment must match the vehicle before applying a circuit path.
Check the easy physical evidence
Inspect blades, arms, linkage/gearbox movement, connectors and visible wiring. A jammed linkage can imitate an electrical motor failure.
Separate switch command from motor output
Verify the requested mode reaches the circuit and that the motor/gearbox responds. Intermittent wiring and poor connections deserve attention when movement changes with vibration.
DO NOT REPLACE THE MOTOR YET
A dead motor is not proven until shared feed, switch/control and linkage load have been separated from the motor itself.
FPV RULE
OBSERVE → MEASURE → ISOLATE → PROVE → REPAIR → VERIFY. A symptom or DTC is a starting point, not a parts verdict.
AFTER THE FAILURE IS PROVEN
Use the proven failed branch—not the original symptom—to choose the replacement. Go from diagnosis to the Parts Verdict →