How To Clean A Windshield Wiper

Windshield wipers are often overlooked until they fail, usually at the most inconvenient moment. Keeping them clean isn't just about aesthetics; it directly impacts visibility and driving safety. This article provides a comprehensive guide for experienced DIYers to maintain and clean their windshield wipers, maximizing their lifespan and effectiveness.

Purpose of Cleaning Windshield Wipers

The primary purpose of cleaning windshield wipers is to remove accumulated debris and contaminants. These include road grime, dirt, tree sap, insect remains, and even wax residue from car washes. Over time, these substances harden and embed themselves in the rubber squeegee of the wiper blade. This leads to:

Streaking: Inefficient wiping leaves streaks of water or grime on the windshield.
Chattering: The wiper blade vibrates and skips across the glass, creating noise and uneven cleaning.
Reduced Lifespan: Embedded debris abrades the rubber, causing it to crack, tear, or lose its flexibility.
Poor Visibility: Compromised wiping performance significantly reduces visibility, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Regular cleaning prevents these issues, extends the life of your wipers, and ensures optimal visibility for safer driving. We will delve into a practical cleaning process, but first, let's review the key components of a typical windshield wiper assembly.

Key Specs and Main Parts

Understanding the anatomy of your windshield wipers is crucial before attempting any cleaning or maintenance.

Main Parts

Wiper Arm: The metal arm that extends from the wiper motor and provides leverage to move the blade across the windshield.
Wiper Blade Assembly: This assembly consists of several components:

Squeegee (Rubber Blade): The flexible rubber part that contacts the windshield and removes water and debris. This is the most critical part to keep clean.
Blade Carrier/Frame: The metal or plastic structure that holds the squeegee and distributes pressure evenly across its length. Older designs often feature multiple yokes and hinges.
Connector/Adapter: The mechanism that attaches the blade assembly to the wiper arm. These vary depending on the vehicle model.

Wiper Motor: The electric motor that powers the wiper arms. It's usually located under the cowl (the area beneath the windshield where the wipers rest when off).
Wiper Linkage: A series of rods and pivots that transmit motion from the wiper motor to the wiper arms.
Washer Nozzles: Sprayers that deliver washer fluid onto the windshield. Clogged nozzles can contribute to poor cleaning performance.
Washer Fluid Reservoir: The container that holds the windshield washer fluid.

Key Specs

Blade Length: Measured in inches or millimeters, this is the length of the squeegee. Using the correct blade length is essential for proper windshield coverage. Consult your owner's manual or a parts catalog to determine the correct size for your vehicle.
Attachment Type: Refers to the type of connector used to attach the blade to the arm (e.g., hook, bayonet, pin). Selecting the correct attachment type is crucial for compatibility.
Material: Wiper blades are typically made from natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or silicone. Silicone blades generally offer longer lifespan and better performance but are more expensive.

How To Clean Your Windshield Wipers

Here's a step-by-step guide to properly cleaning your windshield wipers:

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need:
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap (optional)
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol, optional, for stubborn residue)
Lift the Wiper Arms: Carefully lift the wiper arms away from the windshield. Most wiper arms have a detent (a holding position) that allows them to stay raised. Be cautious, as the arms can snap back against the windshield with considerable force.
Inspect the Blades: Examine the squeegees for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or separation from the blade carrier. If the blades are significantly damaged, they should be replaced.
Clean the Squeegees:
- Wet the cloth: Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water. You can add a small amount of mild dish soap if desired.
- Wipe the blade: Gently wipe the squeegee along its entire length, from the base to the tip. Apply firm, even pressure to remove accumulated debris.
- Rinse and Repeat: Rinse the cloth frequently with clean water. Repeat the wiping process until the cloth comes away clean.
- Stubborn Residue: For stubborn residue like tree sap or wax, dampen a separate cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently wipe the affected areas. Avoid excessive use of rubbing alcohol, as it can dry out the rubber over time.
Clean the Windshield: While the wipers are raised, take the opportunity to clean the windshield thoroughly. Use a dedicated glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or streaks.
Clean Washer Nozzles: Inspect the washer nozzles for any blockages. Use a small pin or needle to clear any debris. You can also use compressed air to blow out any obstructions.
Lower the Wiper Arms: Carefully lower the wiper arms back onto the windshield. Ensure they are seated properly.
Test the Wipers: Activate the windshield wipers and washer fluid to test their performance. Observe for any streaking, chattering, or uneven wiping.

Real-World Use - Basic Troubleshooting

Even with regular cleaning, wiper blades eventually wear out. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Streaking: Indicates a dirty blade or a worn squeegee. Clean the blades first. If streaking persists, replace the blades.
Chattering: Can be caused by a dirty blade, a dry windshield, or worn wiper arm springs. Clean the blades and ensure the windshield is thoroughly wet. If chattering continues, check the wiper arm springs. Weak springs can reduce pressure on the windshield, causing the blade to skip. Replace the wiper arm if necessary.
Skipping: Similar to chattering, but often indicates a damaged squeegee or a bent wiper arm. Inspect the blade and arm for damage. Replace if needed.
Smearing: Suggests a greasy or waxy film on the windshield. Clean the windshield thoroughly with a dedicated glass cleaner. Also, inspect the washer fluid reservoir for contamination (e.g., oil).
Uneven Wiping: Could be caused by a bent wiper arm or a blade that is not properly seated in the carrier. Inspect the arm and blade for damage or misalignment.

Safety

While cleaning windshield wipers is generally a safe procedure, there are a few potential risks:

Wiper Arm Snap-Back: The wiper arms can snap back against the windshield with significant force, potentially causing damage to the glass or injury to your fingers. Always hold the wiper arm firmly when raising or lowering it.
Sharp Edges: Some wiper blades and blade carriers may have sharp edges. Wear gloves if necessary to protect your hands.
Electrical Components: Avoid spraying water or cleaning solutions directly onto the wiper motor or electrical connections. This could cause damage or corrosion.
Chemicals: Use cleaning solutions in a well-ventilated area and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Wear safety glasses if necessary.

Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, will maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your windshield wipers. By following these steps, you can ensure optimal visibility and safer driving in all weather conditions.

For a detailed diagram illustrating the windshield wiper assembly, please contact us. We have the file available for download, which provides a visual representation of the components discussed in this article.