Although windshield wipers serve an important function, they can become an annoying distraction if they make a lot of noise. Some people can put up with some noise now and then, but if it’s constantly there, action is required.
The bright side is that effective solutions exist, and they don’t necessitate much work on your part. Though some problems may be more intractable than others, most can be solved with some trial and error.
In terms of noise, these are the most straightforward fixes. These maintenance procedures should be performed regardless of the presence or absence of noise, as they extend the life of windshield wipers.
Clean the Wiper Blades as well as the Windshield
One of the most common causes of windshield squeak is a dirty windshield. Buildup of dirt on the windshield can be heard even if it’s raining outside. Do not assume that the rain will magically clean everything up without your participation.
In most cases, people should wash the windshield whenever they feel like it needs it, rather than at regular intervals. If you like to stay on top of things, you might wash your windshield more than once a week.
Make sure to raise the wiper blades before using them to cover the entire windshield. Because some of the soap and water will unavoidably drip off as you clean the blades, you should do that first. After you’ve washed the wiper blades, it’s time to move on to the windshield.
Make sure the windshield wipers are in good working order before you put them back up; they don’t need to be checked nearly as often.
The arm or the hinges of the wiper blades could have built up sine. It’s possible that the noise is being caused by structural damage as well.
Examine the windshield wiper fluid levels
Every time you use your windshield wipers, whether it’s a light drizzle or a monsoon, you’ll need windshield wiper fluid. If this doesn’t happen, noise will likely become an issue.
The windshield wiper fluid in a car is not infinite. The wiper fluid may not be releasing enough or may be completely ineffective if the noise level is rising.
If you use your windshield wipers frequently, you may want to check the fluid level once a month. You don’t have to check it very often, but if you’re having noise problems, that’s where you should start. Lack of windshield washer fluid can cause the windshield wipers to make a racket in any weather.
You can save some money by purchasing windshield wiper fluid in larger quantities. It might seem like a lot, but most people will use more fluid in their lives than they thought was possible.
Soften the rubber on the wipers
If your windshield wiper rubber has become cracked or otherwise damaged, you can easily repair it yourself with a little rubbing alcohol. Start by applying it to the wiper’s rubber blade. Apply it along the entire length of the components and rub it in to ensure complete coverage. In most cases, repeating the process once or twice will be enough to soften the rubber.
If the windshield wipers are damaged beyond repair, replacing them is the only option. Although some may try to save money by replacing only the rubber, it is usually more cost-effective to upgrade everything at once.
Tighten the Windshield Wipers
As a result of repeated wiping, windshield wipers can start to look worn. The mechanism that makes noise can fail at any time, despite appearances to the contrary.
Fasteners may be the only component that wears out unexpectedly quickly. Typically, they are either too loose or too tight. Noise is something no one wants to deal with, and both of these possibilities can bring it about.
One solution is to properly fasten them, which will eliminate the noise. You can also try applying some fluid to the fasteners in order to reduce the friction between them.
More Complicated Ways to Get Quiet Wipers
The following suggestions are a bit more involved, but should still be doable for those trying to fix everything on their own.
Keep in mind that it benefits automakers to make windshield wipers simple to repair or replace. No one likes having to repeatedly go through a difficult procedure. The bright side is that they need not.
Examining Windshield Protectants
If a person purchases a windshield protectant such as RainX, they may believe they have done the right thing by protecting that vital part of the vehicle. Some of them, however, can cause windshields to become noisy if they create just the right amount of friction when wipers are slid across.
This is not what the protectants are supposed to do, but it can happen if you use more than one. Perhaps a new coat of protectant is in order, or perhaps it should be removed to silence a squeaky wiper blade. Some people swear by these protectants, but if they come at a high price, it can be very frustrating.
Completely Replacing Wiper Blades
Wiper blades should be replaced every 6-12 months, but in practice, this is rarely done. Instead, most people wait until they have a problem with their wipers before purchasing a replacement. As long as they serve their purpose and don’t bother anyone, they can stay on.
Some people might be lucky enough to get away with thinking that way, but it could be a big reason why there is so much noise. If they are old and worn, they will generate a different amount of friction, which can be quite noisy.
Try to find a set of wiper blades that are advertised as being quiet when you need a replacement. These wiper blades are typically quite sturdy, constructed from materials that minimize the likelihood of a great deal of friction.
Think about your options carefully before spending money on a new set of windshield wipers without giving them a fair shake first. They’re more costly, but sometimes it’s enough to have a product that focuses on sound.
Here’s where purpose-built wipers for your car make the most sense. If a person lives in an area with a lot of heavy rainstorms, there are wipers for that. The same is true for extremely dry and extremely cold climates.
Is there a more serious issue that could lead to noisy windshield blades?
In most cases, a cleaning solution or a new set of blades will silence annoying noises. On the other hand, two additional factors may be at play here. Not only is it expensive to fix, but it can become even more dangerous if you put off getting it fixed.
The problem starts with the windshield wipers. As a result of normal wear and tear over many years of service, this eventually becomes a problem. Because of buildup or the wiper’s inability to maintain its position, perhaps.
An additional concern that arises is the possibility that the individual is experiencing a genuine windshield issue. After being subjected to extreme weather, the surface may be in rough shape. A crack in the windshield might not be obvious at first glance but would become apparent upon closer examination.
Of course, replacing a windshield is going to cost more than replacing windshield wipers, but the alternative is putting yourself in danger in the event that the windshield completely shatters. That’s why it’s better to take care of such things immediately rather than later.
Is it difficult to replace out windshield wipers by yourself?
Even if it’s their first time, most people can change their windshield wipers without assistance. Some windshield wipers no longer require the use of tools for installation or replacement.
If one buys the correct size, they will fit and function as intended. After removing new blades from their packaging, they will automatically latch into place and snap off again for instant replacement.
Last Thoughts
Reliable windshield wipers should be able to clear the windshield quickly and effectively in all weather. Check their performance at all speeds to ensure that they are fully functional. At low speeds, some windshield wipers are nearly silent; at higher speeds, they make a lot of noise.
Maintaining a regular schedule of maintenance should keep them running smoothly. If you hear a noise, don’t just brush it off; it might be an indicator of trouble. Conditions may play a role at times, but that’s not always the case. It’s preferable to replace windshield wipers before they become completely worn out.
Finally, those who live in a particularly rainy, particularly snowy, or more climate should invest in windshield wipers that are suitable for that type of weather. They’ll be constructed to last a little longer, so you won’t have to replace them as often.