What Causes the Squeaking Sound When New Car Wipers Scrape the Windshield?
4 Answers
New car wipers squeaking when scraping the windshield is caused by foreign objects between the wiper blades and the windshield, which create sharp noises due to friction. In this case, you can check and clean any debris on the wiper blades or underneath them to ensure the wiper area is clean. Wiper maintenance tips: 1. Avoid prolonged contact with the windshield: After parking, lift the wipers to prevent them from sticking to the glass for extended periods. Especially in scorching summer temperatures, the rubber blades pressed against the glass can easily deform or lose elasticity due to heat. 2. Repair windshield damage immediately: Road debris like gravel can easily chip the windshield, but minor dents are often overlooked. These not only damage the wipers but may also lead to full windshield cracking. It's best to have a professional auto detailing shop inspect or repair such damage. 3. Use rubber protectant: Rubber protectants available in the market resemble marker pens and are often included as freebies with cleaning products. Applying them to wipers enhances lubrication and extends the elasticity of the blades.
I just bought a new car, and the wipers are already squeaking, which is really annoying. This is often an issue with new wiper blades, as the rubber on factory-installed wipers may not be properly broken in, or there might be residual protective film on the surface, causing increased friction when wiping the glass. Another common cause is dirty glass—oil or dust buildup on the road can form a greasy film, leading to scraping noises. Uneven installation of the wiper arms can also create uneven pressure, which is more noticeable in dry weather. I’ve tried fixing it myself by wiping the glass with soapy water or automotive glass cleaner, which sometimes helps. If the noise persists, I recommend visiting a professional car wash to check the wiper blade alignment—don’t let a small issue ruin your driving experience. A new car deserves care, and regular checks can prevent bigger problems down the road.
I've been driving for decades, and squeaky wipers are nothing new. Even new cars often have this issue, mostly because the wiper rubber is too new, stiff, or flawed, causing a harsh scraping sound. The key reason is usually uncleaned oil film or dirt on the windshield, especially after rain or driving in polluted urban areas where buildup happens faster. Misaligned wiper arms or uneven tension can also contribute. I make it a habit to thoroughly clean the windshield every time I wash the car, using alcohol or a dedicated degreaser to keep it smooth. Simple maintenance like this can reduce noise—don’t ignore it, as poor visibility in the rain can compromise safety. Good wiper condition makes driving more pleasant—small things matter.
I drive my kids to and from school every day, and the squeaky wiper noise is too loud. This issue often occurs with new cars, mostly due to new wiper blades not being properly softened or the windshield not being thoroughly cleaned, leaving oil stains. It's recommended to clean the front windshield with a wet cloth and ordinary dish soap, focusing on removing oil film. The operation is simple and takes only a few minutes. Regular maintenance prevents noise and extends the wiper's lifespan. Driving safely is more important than anything else.
