What Causes the Squeaking Noise When Wipers Move on the Windshield?
2 Answers
The wiper is a cleaning tool on a car that ensures the cleanliness of the windshield and maintains the driver's clear visibility. 1. Debris between the wiper and the windshield: When the car is stationary, debris such as leaves and dust may accumulate on the windshield. If the wiper is activated without cleaning these debris, it can cause squeaking noises and, in severe cases, even scratch the windshield. 2. Issues with the wiper blade: The wiper blade is made of rubber and will naturally age over time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the blade to harden and deteriorate. 3. Misalignment of the wiper: The wiper has a fixed position to properly cover the windshield. However, over time, the wiper may shift out of place. 4. Fault in the wiper linkage mechanism: The linkage mechanism of the wiper is complex, and malfunctions in components such as the motor or intermittent relay can cause the wiper to move too fast or too slow, leading to squeaking noises.
Wiper blades making noise on the windshield is something I've encountered several times during my decades of driving. The most common cause is aging wiper blades, where the rubber strips wear out or crack, creating dry friction when wiping the glass. Sometimes, there's an oily film or layer of dust on the windshield that wasn't properly cleaned during car washing, making it sticky when rain hits it. Insufficient tension in the wiper arm can also contribute to the problem—if the spring is loose, the blade won't press firmly. I've even experienced cases where tiny stones on the windshield surface scratched the wiper blades. Preventing this issue is simple: check the wipers every three to four months and replace them immediately if cracks appear; don't neglect windshield cleaning during car washes—just use a dedicated degreaser. The noise while driving is not only annoying but also affects visibility and safety, so addressing it early saves trouble. Remember, if the noise occurs frequently, inspect the entire wiper system and windshield smoothness comprehensively—don't let it escalate into a bigger issue.
