What is the plastic panel under the windshield wiper called?
4 Answers
It is called the lower windshield trim panel. Below is relevant information about windshield wipers: 1. Front wipers: Front wipers must effectively remove rain, snow, and dirt; operate in high temperatures (up to 80 degrees Celsius) and low temperatures (down to -30 degrees Celsius); resist corrosion from acids, alkalis, salts, and other harmful substances; and have a lifespan of up to 150,000 wiping cycles (for passenger vehicles). Typically, the wiper control knob is located on the combination switch lever, featuring three settings: low speed, high speed, and intermittent. 2. Working principle: The motor on the electric wiper drives the output shaft via a worm gear on the armature shaft, which then drives the output gear through an idler gear and idler shaft. The output arm connected to the wiper linkage is then manipulated by the output shaft. When the motor rotates, the output arm and linkage are driven to move back and forth. A resistor on the control switch is connected to the motor's armature winding to regulate the motor's speed, allowing the driver to adjust the switch as needed to direct current into the motor's input circuit.
That plastic panel under the wiper is commonly called the 'wiper cover panel' or more professionally known as the 'windshield lower shield.' I used to overlook it when driving, but after experiencing an issue, I started paying attention. This panel mainly protects the wiper motor and wiring, preventing rainwater and leaves from directly entering the engine bay. If it ages or becomes loose, rainwater may seep in, causing the motor to rust and the wiper to malfunction. One of my cars had a crack in this panel, and after water accumulated, the wiper became unreliable—fixing it was quite troublesome. I recommend cleaning the debris from the panel gaps during car washes to keep them clear. Regularly check if it fits tightly, and if there’s an issue, don’t delay—get it replaced at a repair shop promptly. Otherwise, a small problem can turn into a big one, especially during heavy rain when poor visibility is dangerous. This part isn’t expensive, and replacing it isn’t complicated.
This plastic panel is a crucial component under the wipers on the car. Veteran drivers often refer to it as the 'front cowl panel.' After years of driving, I've found its primary role is to prevent dust and water from entering, stopping rainwater from flowing directly into the engine bay and damaging components. It's commonly made from plastic or composite materials, being both lightweight and durable. If the panel becomes warped or damaged, water can easily leak in, leading to electrical shorts or motor failures. The one on my car once cracked due to aging, causing the wipers to malfunction intermittently—the mechanic blamed inadequate protection from the panel. Routine maintenance is simple: just rinse the gaps during car washes to ensure the drainage holes aren't clogged. If you hear unusual noises or feel resistance when using the wipers, it might be due to misalignment of this panel, signaling it's time for repairs. When replacing it, opt for OEM parts for better fit and reduced risk of warping. Though it seems insignificant, this panel can be a lifesaver during rain or snow.
The plastic panel beneath the wipers, commonly referred to by car enthusiasts as the 'wiper cowl' or technically known as the cowl panel, sits just below the windshield covering the components connected to the wipers. I find it quite crucial as it blocks splashing rain and dust, preventing internal parts from rusting. However, prolonged exposure makes it prone to aging and cracking. I once experienced a cracked panel allowing rainwater to seep in, which eventually short-circuited the wiper motor – the repair cost me several hundred bucks. It's advisable to inspect it quarterly; replace it promptly if you notice looseness or damage. During regular car washes, rinse the crevices to maintain cleanliness.
