What Causes Loud Wiper Blade Friction Noise?
3 Answers
Loud wiper blade friction noise is generally caused by sand particles trapped in the grooves on both sides of the wiper rubber or due to aging and hardening of the wiper blade. The presence of dirt and debris on the windshield can also create noise when the wiper blades move. During daily windshield cleaning, if you notice that the wiper blades are aged, replacing them should resolve the issue. Wiper blades, also known as windscreen wipers or windshield wipers, are devices used to remove rain and dust from a vehicle's windshield, improving driver visibility and enhancing driving safety. It's important to keep the wiper blade rubber adequately moist. Only with sufficient moisture can the rubber maintain excellent flexibility, ensuring tight contact with the windshield glass.
When the wiper makes loud noises, it can be really annoying. I've encountered this several times while driving myself, with various possible causes. The wiper blades might be aging, with the rubber material hardening or cracking over time, causing friction against the glass and producing a sound like grinding stones. The windshield could be coated with oil film or dust, such as bird droppings or leaf residue, making the surface uneven and resulting in squeaking noises when the wipers move. Additionally, the tension of the wiper arm's support component might be improperly adjusted—too tight, pressing hard against the glass, or too loose, causing instability—both of which increase noise. Misalignment during wiper installation can also lead to uneven friction on one side. I've tried wiping the windshield dry on sunny days without using washer fluid, which made the noise even worse due to insufficient lubrication. The solution is to first clean the glass with a detergent to remove grease, then check if the wiper blades need replacement—it's recommended to change them every six months or so. During regular car washes, make sure the workers don't misalign them. This issue affects driving safety, especially in rainy conditions when visibility is poor, so it's important to address it promptly.
The new car's wipers started making annoying noises shortly after purchase, and upon checking, I found several possible causes. A layer of dirt on the glass surface, such as dust or oil residue, makes it harder for the wipers to glide smoothly, resulting in noise. Worn wiper blades with uneven edges create more resistance and produce harsh sounds when moving. Improper installation leaving the wipers not tightly fitted to the windshield can cause wobbling and friction. In cold weather, the rubber hardens further, making the noise even worse on winter mornings. I tried wiping the glass with wet wipes and spraying some wiper fluid, which helped a bit. Replacing the blades is a simple and cost-effective solution—just make sure to choose the right model for your car. Driving with such noise can distract you, so safety comes first—don't delay fixing it. If you're handy, try adjusting the wiper arm tension yourself; otherwise, take it to a shop.
