What Causes Loud Friction Noise from Car Windshield Wipers?
2 Answers
Generally, the noise is caused by sand particles trapped in the grooves on both sides of the wiper blade or aging and hardening of the wiper blade. Below is relevant information: Main Components: The electric windshield wiper is driven by a motor and generally consists of a wiper arm, wiper blade assembly, rubber blade, blade holder, blade support, wiper arm spindle, wiper base plate, motor, reduction gear, drive linkage, drive linkage hinge, wiper switch, and wiper switch knob. Working Principle: The left and right wiper blades are pressed against the outer surface of the windshield by the wiper arms. The motor drives the reduction gear to rotate, and through the reciprocating motion of the drive linkage system, it moves the wiper arms and blades left and right to wipe the windshield.
I've driven quite a few cars, and it's quite common to encounter squeaky wipers. Mostly, it's because the wiper blades have aged, hardened, or worn out, increasing friction against the windshield and causing noise. It's important to check them before the rainy season. Dirty windshields with oil stains or dust can also increase friction—using some glass cleaner to wipe them down can make a big difference in reducing noise. In dry weather, spraying some windshield washer fluid helps with lubrication, preventing hard scraping. Misaligned wiper arms or excessive pressure can also be the cause, so try adjusting the angle slightly. When replacing blades, don't go for the cheapest option; choose silicone or high-quality rubber ones for durability. Remember, while this issue might seem minor, blurred vision during rain can be dangerous, so address it promptly to ensure safety.