Wiper rubber (windshield wiper) on the windshield that creaks sharply to make your trip in the rain unpleasant. Usually, this squeaking sound occurs because the windshield or wiper blades are dirty, so you need to clean them thoroughly. If this doesn't solve the problem, try addressing some of the common causes, such as stiff rubber and loose fasteners. However, if the blade is cracked, bent, or already brittle, you may need to replace it.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Cleaning the Windshield and Wiper Blades
Step 1. Clean the dirt build up on the wiper blades
Lift the wiper blades toward the outside of the windshield. Wet a tissue with a little hot soapy water or rubbing alcohol. Wipe the wiper blade with a tissue until it is clean and there is no more dirt on the tissue.
- Don't forget to also clean the wiper arm and hinges. The hinges on the wiper can become stiff if exposed to dust and dirt, which will make a creaking sound.
- If the wipers are very dirty, you may need to use several sheets of tissue. If the tissue is thin, fold it in before using it for wiping, or just use a washcloth.
- If the wiper blades keep turning and sticking back against the glass when you pull it, hold the blade away from the glass with your non-dominant hand, then clean the blades one at a time.
Step 2. Clean the windshield thoroughly using a glass cleaning product
Apply a lot of glass cleaner that doesn't contain ammonia to the windshield. You are now ready to clean the glass using a soft, lint-free cloth (such as a microfiber cloth). Wipe the windshield from top to bottom until clean.
- You can replace the glass cleaner with undiluted white vinegar. Put the vinegar in a spray bottle and use it like a glass cleaner. Don't spray vinegar on painted car parts.
- Ammonia-containing cleaners can damage the color and cause the plastic to wear out quickly. Ammonia-free glass cleaner will be clearly written on the packaging.
Step 3. Use baking soda to clean heavily soiled glass
Sprinkle plenty of baking soda on a paper towel that has been moistened with water for a strong cleanser. Next, wipe the windshield clean using a top-down motion.
Step 4. Use an alcohol wipe to deal with the creaking sound
If the wipers suddenly make a creaking sound while you're on the road, you'll need to take advantage of everything you have available. Always carry and store alcoholic wipes in the car. If the wiper squeaks, you can wipe the rubber with an alcoholic wet tissue.
Method 2 of 3: Treating Common Causes of Squeaky Sound
Step 1. Refill the windshield wiper fluid
Many wipers jump and squeak because the windshield is not wet enough. Check the liquid and add if necessary. That way, you can spray this liquid if the wipers start to squeak.
Step 2. Adjust the wiper blade position if necessary
The windshield wipers are designed to follow the movement of the wiper arm. If the wiper blades feel stiff and don't follow the back and forth motion of the arm, rotate the wiper arm by hand to relieve blade stiffness.
- The blades that are too tight cannot move back and forth smoothly with the movement of the wiper arm, which will make a creaking and squeaking sound.
- The wiper blades must not appear to "dig" into the glass or remain vertical when the blade rubs against the windshield.
Step 3. Soften the windshield wipers
Stiff wiper blades can also cause a squeaking and creaking sound. Some blades may feel stiff when they are freshly removed from the packaging, and others may stiffen from exposure to the elements. Blades that are 1 year old must be replaced, while new blades can be softened by:
- ArmorAll. Wet a tissue with lots of ArmorAll. Use a circular motion to rub ArmorAll against the inside of the blade rubber to soften it.
- Rubbing alcohol. Wet a tissue with rubbing alcohol. Use the tissue to rub the wiper blade rubber gently.
- WD-40. Use this product sparingly because using too much WD-40 can dry out the rubber blades. Spray a tissue with a small amount of WD-40, then lightly dab it on the rubber blade before wiping it dry.
Step 4. Adjust the fasterner tension level
Check to see if the blades or wiper assembly underneath is too tight or loose. The distance between the windshield and the wiper that is too loose or tight can also produce a squeaking and creaking sound.
- Usually, you can tighten the fasteners with a wrench by turning them clockwise, or counterclockwise if you want to loosen them.
- You may have to do some testing to find the best level of firmness. Ideally, the wiper blades should be firmly in place, but should be able to move back and forth easily along the windshield.
Step 5. Remove the film that adds friction
Common automotive surface protectors, such as Rain-X or certain types of wax, can make a squeaking and creaking sound. Remove the product and use a regular car polish to avoid annoying wiper noises.
The film produced by certain windshield coating products can increase the friction between the wiper blades and the windshield, which can create an unpleasant squeaky sound
Method 3 of 3: Replacing Parts of the Wiper
Step 1. Install the new rubber insert
If the non-rubber blade and sleeves are still good, you don't need to replace them. However, sometimes the rubber breaks down more quickly than the non-rubber part (especially in areas exposed to the sun). Remove and replace the rubber blade insert.
Step 2. Replace the wiper blades regularly
Pull the metal arm attached to the windshield. There is a joint where the blade attaches to the wiper arm. You can remove the wiper arm here. Open the connection, remove the old blade, insert the new blade, and reset the connection.
- Some cars have push tabs or fastening hooks that connect the blades to the wiper arm assembly. Remove this fastener by hand and remove the blade.
- Depending on the person being asked, he or she may suggest that you replace the blades every 6 months or once a year, but preferably before the rainy season.
Step 3. Reinstall the wiper assembly
Trace the wiper blade down until it reaches the base of the arm. There will be a nut sticking out. Remove this nut using a wrench. Now you can pull the wiper arm. Snap the replacement arm into place, then tighten the nut. Now the wipers are ready to use.
With time and use, the circuit that holds the wiper blades in place will wear and become stiff, which will eventually produce a squeaky sound
Tips
If you've found a replacement set of wiper blades that fits your car, don't forget to note the make and type. That way, you don't have to guess anymore to find a suitable replacement set of blades
Warning
- Never mix dishwashing liquid with dish soap. This can make the windshield squeak even more.
- Pieces of objects, such as dirt, that are splashed onto the car can make a squeaking sound. Avoid splashing dirt when you drive in the rain.
- When replacing the wiper blades, you may have to do some trial and error. Different types of cars require different sizes and types of wipers.
- Never wax a windshield with wax as this can make the windshield and wiper blades very slippery which will make it difficult for you to see ahead in bad weather.
- Do not use the wiper when the windshield is very cold. This can make the wiper quickly damaged and worn.
