What Causes the Tapping Sound from the Windshield?
3 Answers
The reasons for the tapping sound from the windshield: The abnormal noise from the car's windshield may be due to dust accumulation between the wiper cover plate and the windshield, causing an incomplete seal. This leads to friction between the windshield's lower air deflector channel and the glass, resulting in the noise. Car owners should regularly inspect the wipers. On one hand, prolonged use can cause the wipers to age. If the end of the wiper arm directly rubs against the windshield, it not only fails to clean rainwater effectively but may also scratch the glass. Additionally, dust adhering to the wipers can cause friction against the windshield, potentially leaving small scratches and fine lines on the glass. When cleaning the windshield, it is advisable to use designated windshield washer fluid, which contains components that dissolve grease and improve the wetting interface of the glass, aiding in its maintenance.
The most annoying thing about driving is these little noises. I've encountered the issue of the windshield making a tapping sound several times. It's usually caused by small stones or leaves stuck under the wipers, which create a tapping noise when the car is moving. Cars that have just been in the rain or parked under trees are especially prone to this. Another possibility is aging windshield sealant, particularly in cars five or six years or older—the sealant shrinks and hardens, causing noise when the car bumps. Also, check the rearview mirror base; some dashcam wires may not be securely fastened, transmitting vibrations. I once fixed it myself by cleaning the wiper groove with a toothbrush and applying some rubber protectant to the sealant, and the noise disappeared. If you can't find the cause, it's best to take it to a repair shop to check the connection between the windshield and the frame.
That rattling sound is annoying, right? Most of the time, it's an issue with the edge of the windshield. I've noticed that dust particles or small twigs stuck in the gap between the glass and the car body start clattering when the speed picks up. If the car is older, the windshield adhesive can age and crack, producing a sharp, glass-tapping noise on rough roads. Some new cars can have this problem too if the adhesive wasn't applied evenly during installation. For cars with modified audio systems, loose wiring harnesses vibrating could also be the culprit. Last time, my friend found a bunch of poplar fluff stuck in the rubber seal—cleaning it out made the noise disappear. My advice: park the car, use a flashlight to inspect the gaps around the windshield edges, and try removing any visible debris.
