If your windshield wipers are not working correctly, it may be time to look at your car’s wiper blades. These parts are prone to wear and corrosion and may need to be replaced. In some cases, a simple cleaning can remedy the problem. Here are some tips:
Replace a blown fuse
A blown a fuse can cause the windshield wiper motor to stop working. If this occurs, you can check the wiper motor fuse. A blown a fuse can also indicate a shorted wire inside the motor. If the wipers don’t work after replacing the fuse, it may be a more complex problem. The switch for the wipers can also be faulty. It could wear out over time, or there’s a tear in the wiring. In such a case, a dealer should be consulted.
The fuse for windshield wipers is usually located in the fuse box inside the passenger cabin or under the hood. First, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find the correct location, or look online for the fuse box diagram. Once you’ve located the fuse, you’ll need to replace it with the same amperage. Fortunately, a simple replacement fuse can only cost around $10. However, if you need a professional to perform the task, the labor costs anywhere from $20 to $50.
Check for corrosion
Checking for corrosion is essential in fixing windshield wipers, as corrosion can make them inoperative. This can affect your visibility and increase the risk of a crash. When this happens, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic, who will check for corrosion and repair the wipers.
If the wiper arm is rusty, you may have to replace it. Some wiper arms are friction fit to the wiper post, while others have splines that mate in a single position. Sometimes, you may need to adjust the pivot or bearing block at the middle of the arm to get the wipers to function correctly.
Corrosion in the wiper motor assembly can cause the wiper blade not to make solid contact with the windshield. This can reduce the quality of wipes because the blades cannot bend properly to make firm contact with the glass. Also, corrosion on the mounting points and joints can affect the wiper’s ability to contact the windshield.
Replace a worn-out pivot nut
If your wipers are worn out and causing the wipers to fail to function, you can easily replace them by replacing the worn-out pivot nut on your windshield wipers. Before starting the process, you need to find out where the worn-out nut is. Often, it can be found at the bottom center of your windshield. You can use these markings to determine the right location for the new nut.
In addition to being loose, the pivot nut holds the arm securely to the wiper stud. To replace this nut, you must ensure that the wiper arm is securely attached to the pivot stud. If the nut is slightly misaligned, one wiper may work while the other stays at the bottom.
Clean the rubber blade
To maintain the effectiveness of your windshield wipers, you should clean them regularly. A simple cleaning solution is rubbing alcohol. Apply it to the wiper blades and wipe the rubber parts gently. This should soften the rubber, allowing it to work smoothly. Once this has been done, you should wipe it dry naturally. This process will also ensure that the wipers don’t leave streaks on the windshield.
Wiper blades should be cleaned every six months. To clean them, run a damp cloth over both wiper blades and wipe the entire blade with the cloth. You can also apply petroleum jelly or rubber protectant to them.
Replace a smeared wiper blade
If your windshield wipers are smeared or dirty, it may be time to replace the wiper blades. You can do so easily by following some simple steps. First, you’ll need to read your car’s manual to ensure you’re doing it correctly.
First, inspect the wiper blade for jagged edges. If there are any jagged edges, they’ll not wipe properly. This will cause streaking and will miss sections of the windshield. Cracks or chips are also signs that the blades are getting old.
Next, remove the old wiper blade to expose the long flat metal hook. You can then snap the new wiper blade into place. Make sure to place a rag underneath the blade before pulling it out. This prevents the wiper arms from snapping back down, which may lead to broken glass.
