What Causes the Noise When Wipers Scratch the Windshield?
4 Answers
Wipers scratching the windshield with noise can be caused by: 1. The wiper blades have aged and hardened; 2. There is a foreign object between the wiper blades and the windshield; 3. The linkage mechanism is deformed or there is an issue with the motor gap relay; 4. If the wipers move too fast, too slow, or continuously, it may be due to incorrect wiper arm angle. Wipers, also known as windshield wipers, are devices used to remove raindrops and dust from the vehicle's windshield, improving driver visibility and enhancing driving safety. The wiper system consists of a motor, reducer, four-bar linkage mechanism, wiper arm spindle, and wiper blade assembly.
I've encountered a similar situation before while driving—the squeaking noise from the wipers scraping against the windshield was quite annoying. The main cause is likely the wiper rubber hardening due to aging, preventing even contact with the glass and creating friction noise. If there are insect remains, dust, or an oily film on the glass surface, it can also cause the wipers to scrape unclearly and produce noise. Additionally, a loose or deformed wiper arm can make the entire assembly shake, intensifying the sound. Using the wipers without spraying water in dry weather can easily damage the rubber. I recommend first thoroughly wiping the windshield with glass cleaner to ensure no residue remains. Then, check if the wiper arm screws are loose and tighten them by hand if necessary. If the rubber is cracked or has been used for over a year, replace the wiper blades promptly—high-quality ones cost just a few dozen yuan and are easy to install yourself. Avoid using the wipers when it's not raining, especially in winter when the rubber is stiff—forcing them can shorten their lifespan. Safety comes first—poor visibility can lead to accidents, so addressing the issue promptly saves both hassle and money.
Having driven for a lifetime, I've seen my fair share of wiper noise issues. Common causes include aged and deformed wiper blades, where the rubber loses elasticity and starts chattering during operation. Accumulated dirt or insect residue on the windshield can also increase friction, resulting in squeaking sounds. Sometimes, wear or rust in the wiper arm joints leads to loose connections that vibrate and produce noise. In cold, damp weather, the rubber strips tend to harden, exacerbating the problem—especially when operating without washer fluid, which accelerates damage during dry wiping. It's advisable to regularly inspect wiper blades for cracks and replace them every six months to a year. Using a mild glass cleaner to wash the windshield weekly can effectively reduce the impact of foreign particles. Keep the washer fluid reservoir filled and always wet the windshield before activating the wipers to avoid instant dry wiping. Ignoring the noise long-term may lead to more significant damage. While replacing wipers is low-cost, neglecting repairs can be dangerous when driving at high speeds in rainy conditions, impairing judgment.
The noise from the wipers is mostly due to hardened or aged rubber blades, which can't glide smoothly and cause friction sounds. Dirty substances on the windshield, like tree sap or dust, can also make squeaky noises when wiped. If the wiper arm is misaligned or loose, it may wobble and produce noise. Additionally, cracked rubber blades or operating the wipers without wetting them with washer fluid can easily cause scratching noises. Quick check: Clean the windshield thoroughly, inspect if the rubber blades are intact, or manually shake the arm to check for stability. Simple solution: Replace the wiper blades or clean the windshield surface.
