What Causes Wiper Blade Chattering?
3 Answers
Wiper blade chattering can be caused by: 1. Vibration due to issues with the wiper blade itself: Wiper blades are made of rubber and can harden or deteriorate over time, especially in winter. The solution is to replace the wiper blades with new ones. 2. Vibration caused by the wiper motor: If the motor lacks sufficient power, it may indicate the end of its lifespan. It is recommended to have a detailed inspection at a professional repair shop. 3. Foreign objects between the wiper blade and windshield causing vibration: When the wiper is activated, a sharp friction noise may occur between the blade and windshield. Check and clean any debris from the wiper blade or underneath it. 4. Wear and tear in the wiper linkage bushing causing vibration: Over time, the wiper linkage mechanism can age, the spring tension in the wiper arm may weaken, and the bushing can wear out or even detach. Inspect the wiper arm and linkage bushing for wear.
After driving for so many years, I've found that wiper blade chattering is quite common, mostly caused by oil stains or dirt on the windshield. For example, if wax isn't cleaned properly after car washing, or insect remains stick to the glass, making it too slippery for the rubber wiper blade to grip properly, it starts jumping around. Another reason is the aging and hardening of the wiper blade—over time, the rubber cracks and loses elasticity, making wiping uneven. It could also be due to the wiper arm not being securely installed, causing uneven spring pressure. I usually start by thoroughly cleaning the glass with vinegar water or store-bought glass cleaner to remove grease; if that doesn't work, I adjust the wiper arm angle with a wrench, tightening it slightly. Replacing the wiper blade is also simple and affordable—just buy one online for a few dollars. Remember not to turn on the wipers when the glass is dry; spray some cleaning fluid first to lubricate. Developing this habit significantly reduces chattering issues.
From a technical perspective, wiper blade chattering is primarily caused by uneven windshield surfaces or inconsistent friction. Dust, grease, or even bird droppings on the glass can create small bumps, causing the wiper to skip over these high points and resulting in chattering. Incorrect angles of the rubber wiper blade or uneven tension in the wiper arm springs can also lead to this issue. Sometimes, insufficient rainwater (too dry) or excessive rainwater (too wet) can affect performance as well. The solution is to first clean the windshield thoroughly, then use fine sandpaper to smooth the edges of the wiper blade for better glide. When replacing wiper blades, ensure the arm is installed at the correct angle—typically around 30 degrees, as often specified in the manual. Additionally, check for loose connections in the wiper motor, as this should not be overlooked. In practice, activating the wipers before spraying windshield washer fluid can lubricate the surface and reduce chattering risks. Regular maintenance, such as quarterly inspections of the wiper arm condition, can prevent minor issues from escalating.
