What Causes the Noise in Car Wipers?

[AniyahAnn]

The main reason for abnormal noise in wipers is the aging of the wiper blades. Reasons for wiper aging: Generally, it is recommended to replace wipers once a year. Rubber components are naturally prone to aging, and since wipers are exposed outside the car, they are even more susceptible to hardening. Aged, cracked, or hardened wiper blades will produce abnormal noise. New types of wipers: In addition to rubber wipers, there are now silicone wipers available. Due to their material, these wipers last longer than rubber ones and are less prone to aging. Some silicone wipers also have an automatic coating function. After installation, you don't need to use windshield washer fluid; within 3-5 minutes, a protective film will form on the surface of the windshield. When it rains, water droplets will quickly slide off the glass surface without obstructing visibility.

[McBrody]

I've been driving for fifteen years, and squeaky wipers are all too common. Aging rubber strips are the number one culprit - hardened rubber scraping against the glass causes that awful screeching. Tree sap or bug residue on the windshield can make wipers skip, and when dish soap won't cut it, you'll need special cleaner. Also, if the wiper arm spring gets loose and can't maintain pressure, the blade will lift mid-swipe with a loud clunk. Never force frozen wipers in winter - cracked rubber means instant replacement. I change my wiper inserts every six months - thirty bucks at a local shop gets me aftermarket ones that outlast OEM parts, just be gentle with the clips during installation.

[Roxanne]

During my years working at an auto repair shop, 70% of wiper noise issues were caused by incorrect installation! New wiper blades have a specific front/back cutting edge – install them backward and they'll squeal immediately. Bent wiper arms are also common; one customer tried bending theirs back but got the angle wrong, causing the entire blade to chatter. Oily windshield film is another headache – it took slow polishing with pumice to fix. Here's a pro tip: never engage wipers when the washer fluid hasn't fully wetted the glass, as dry wiping destroys rubber blades. Monthly maintenance with a damp cloth to clean blade edges and remove embedded grit can easily extend their lifespan to two years.

[BeauFitz]

Last time my wipers were squeaking so loud it gave me a headache, my best friend taught me a three-step troubleshooting method: First, feel if the glass is rough - if there's oil film, scrub hard with soapy water. Then lift the wiper to check if the rubber blade has cracks - if it's whitened or hardened, it needs replacement. Finally, listen to where the noise comes from - squeaking in the middle means the frame is deformed, while noise at both ends indicates aged rubber. Remember to avoid changing blades at noon under scorching sun as the hot rubber gets too soft and may install crookedly. Now I've developed a good habit of spraying windshield fluid for pre-lubrication before rainy days, and the noise has never occurred again.