What Causes the Loud Sound When Windshield Wipers Swing Back and Forth?

[LucyAnn]

Windshield wipers produce loud noises for the following reasons: 1. Wiper blade issues: The noise is caused by problems with the wiper blade itself. Wiper blades are made of rubber and will harden or age over time, especially noticeable in winter. 2. Foreign objects: Noise occurs when there are foreign objects between the wiper blade and the windshield, causing sharp friction sounds when the wipers are activated. 3. Bushing friction: The sound comes from the friction of the wiper linkage bushing. Over time, the wiper linkage mechanism ages, reducing the elasticity of the wiper arm spring, and the bushing may wear out or even fall off.

[EliasRose]

I often encounter the issue of noisy wipers after driving for a long time. The main reason is the aging of the wiper blades—the rubber material becomes hard and brittle, causing squeaking sounds when rubbing against the glass. This is more noticeable in cold weather, as rubber tends to harden at low temperatures. Another cause is a dirty windshield, with oil film or bird droppings residue, leading to rattling noises when wiping. Driving in the rain with excessive noise can be quite annoying, as it interferes with listening to music and navigation. I make it a habit to clean the windshield with glass cleaner every time I wash my car (quarterly) to prevent oil buildup. Wiper blades typically need replacement every six months to a year, as older ones become uncontrollably noisy. Additionally, I check the wiper arm angle to ensure it isn’t misaligned, which could worsen friction. Sticking to regular maintenance keeps the noise down and makes driving much more comfortable.

[HaileyRose]

Having worked in car repairs for many years, I've dealt with numerous wiper noise issues. The primary cause is worn or cracked wiper blades, where rough rubber creates scraping sounds. Grease and dust particles accumulating on the windshield can also cause friction noises. It's recommended to first clean the glass with professional glass cleaner. When wiper linkage or motor components become loose, they produce abnormal sounds during operation - if accompanied by vibration, check if lubrication is sufficient. A simple DIY check is to gently lift the wiper arm to see if it moves smoothly. However, professional inspection is more reliable, using tools to test electrical circuits and mechanical parts. Long-term neglect may lead to wiper system failure, creating visibility risks during rain. Safety comes first - never compromise on getting proper repairs.

[ElliottLynn]

As a beginner driver, I was initially puzzled by the loud noise from my windshield wipers. Later, I learned that it's often caused by worn-out wiper blades where hardened rubber scrapes against the glass. A mechanic taught me to first clean the windshield using degreasing products to remove oil stains and dust. It's also important to check that the wiper arm is securely fastened, as it can become misaligned after parking bumps. In winter, the rubber gets stiffer and noisier, so simply rinsing with warm water might help. Don't panic over these minor issues - replacing the wiper blades usually solves them. Maintaining clean glass provides good prevention, ensuring driving safety isn't compromised. Learning these basic tips makes handling such situations much easier.

[SanBradley]

As a frequent family car user, the loud noise from the wipers concerns me greatly. The primary cause is aged wiper blades - cracked rubber scraping against the glass creates that annoying screeching sound. Tree sap or leaf residue on the windshield can also cause noise, especially during rainy seasons, so it's good practice to clean before driving. Loose wiper linkage not only produces noise but may detach completely, posing serious safety risks. I make it a habit to inspect the wiper system during monthly car washes, being gentle to avoid damage. I recommend replacing wiper blades with high-quality ones every six months - it's cost-effective and ensures clearer visibility. Excessive noise during rainy conditions can distract drivers, so timely maintenance guarantees safer family trips. Addressing minor issues early prevents major headaches later.