What to Do If the Wiper Arm Cannot Be Removed?
3 Answers
If the wiper arm cannot be removed, you can spray some rust remover and shake it more, or use a dedicated wiper arm puller. The method for removing the wiper arm: Stand the wiper arm completely upright, and based on the angle after placement, you can start the removal. Use one hand to lift the rubber wiper blade, and with the other hand, open the rubber wiper blade side by side underneath to separate the wiper from the wiper arm. Then remove the entire wiper arm. The wiper arm, also known as the wiper linkage, is the strip-shaped part in front of the car that supports the wiper—the part connecting the wiper to the car. The wiper is like a person's hand, and the wiper arm is like the arm. The wiper refers to the blade structure installed in front of the windshield, consisting of a motor, reducer, four-bar linkage, wiper arm spindle, and wiper blade assembly.
I encountered the same issue last time when removing the wiper arm—it was completely stuck due to severe rust at the joint. I first sprayed rust penetrant and lubricant, like WD-40, and let it soak for about half an hour before trying again. Gently wiggle the wiper arm side to side instead of pulling hard, as excessive force can damage the mounting shaft. This usually happens due to rainwater corrosion or dust buildup. Parking in a garage regularly helps prevent this. If DIY isn’t working, visit a professional repair shop—they have specialized tools to handle it easily without compromising driving safety. If attempting yourself, use a socket wrench instead of an adjustable wrench to avoid slipping risks. The key is patience—wait longer for the lubricant to take full effect.
Difficulty in removing the wiper arm is often caused by rust or an overly tight fixing nut. Before removal, check if the nut is locked and use a properly sized socket wrench—avoid using inappropriate tools. Spray some lubricant to let it seep into the joint gaps for a few minutes, then gently shake and slowly loosen it. Excessive force can damage the wiper system's joint structure. Regular maintenance with anti-rust spray can help prevent such issues. For special vehicle models, seek professional support instead of forcing it to avoid accidents—be careful not to damage the windshield during repairs. It's recommended to regularly clean the joint area, as parking in areas with heavy rain or dust increases the risk of rust. Preventive measures can save hassle later.
