What to Do When Car Wiper Blades Make Loud Friction Noises?
3 Answers
Car wiper blades making loud friction noises are commonly caused by aged wiper blades, in which case new wiper blades need to be replaced. Under normal circumstances, wiper blades sweep across the windshield, but if the wiper blades are aged, the contact area between the wiper blades and the windshield cannot properly adhere, causing the blades to scrape the windshield instead of sweeping it. This results in very loud friction noises. Wiper blades are made of rubber and, over time, can harden or age, which is a normal occurrence. Wiper blades should be replaced every one to two years. Typically, replacing the wiper blades will resolve the issue of loud friction noises. Wiper blades are generally categorized into two types: traditional frame-style wipers and beam-style wipers.
With over twenty years of driving experience, loud wiper friction noise is quite common, usually caused by hardened or aged wiper blades or accumulated dirt on the windshield. When encountering this issue, I first use a soft cloth dipped in dish soap to thoroughly clean the windshield, paying special attention to removing dust or grease from the rubber strips. If the noise persists after cleaning, it's necessary to check if the wiper blades are cracked or deformed. If they're split, simply order new blades online for a quick and affordable replacement. Don't underestimate this noise—prolonged dry wiping can scratch the glass and further impair visibility. Additionally, insufficient wiper fluid or a dry windshield can worsen friction, so regularly topping up with washer fluid helps maintain moisture and prevent the issue.
As a post-95 car owner, I encountered wiper noise just one year after buying my car, but it was quite simple to handle. Try popping the hood and spraying some windshield washer fluid—sometimes improper wiper fluid mixing causes dry wiping. Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean dirt from the edges of the wiper blades, and watch online tutorials to learn how; it takes just minutes. If the noise persists, consider replacing the wiper blades—platforms offer options for just tens of yuan, so act fast without hesitation. Driving with poor visibility in rain is truly dangerous—safety comes first. A friend advised minimizing wiper use on dry glass and spraying fluid first to lubricate before starting.
