How to Fix Squeaky Wiper Blades?
2 Answers
The solutions for squeaky wiper blades are: 1. Check if there is any foreign object between the wiper blade and the windshield, and remove it if found; 2. Inspect the rubber part of the wiper blade for hardening, burrs, notches, cracks, or tears. If any of these issues are present, replace the wiper blade. If there are only burrs, you can lightly sand them twice with 1000-grit sandpaper and test again; 3. If the wiper blade is not the cause, perform a water spray test on the windshield. If you notice areas where water does not bead up or spreads quickly, it indicates the presence of an oily film on the windshield. In this case, use a degreaser or adhesive remover to clean the windshield; 4. If the noise is caused by uneven force during the wiper's back-and-forth motion, remove the wiper blade and place a piece of cardboard on the windshield. Gently place the wiper arm on the cardboard and check if the lower plane of the wiper arm makes full contact. If there is an angle, it means the wiper arm is bent. You can use a wrench to adjust the angle of the wiper arm. Wrap the wiper arm with a thick towel during adjustment to prevent the wrench from damaging the paint on the wiper arm.
I used to have the problem of squeaky wiper rubber, which is actually quite common, usually due to aging rubber or the accumulation of oil and dust on the windshield. It's not difficult to solve. First, clean the windshield thoroughly with glass cleaner to remove grease and scale. Then check the wiper rubber for cracks or hardening; if it's worn out, replace it promptly with a brand wiper of the correct size, making sure it's properly aligned with the arm when installing. Sometimes, if the wiper arm tension is too tight, it can also cause noise, so adjust the tightness accordingly. After driving, clean the rubber regularly to prevent mud from sticking, which can extend its lifespan and reduce noise. It's especially annoying when the squeaking happens during rainy days with poor visibility, so address it promptly—safety first.
