A windshield wiper is very essential for visibility and safety. Defective windshield wipers can seriously compromise the driver’s vision when road conditions are not favorable. A windshield wiper has three main components – the arm, the blade and the wiping element. Factors like sunlight contaminants, oil and dirt cause the wiper blades to age and deteriorate. Common problems that result include chattering, streaking and the inability to clear water from the windshield. The most economical repair is to replace the wiper refills that are attached along the edge of the blade. Wiping the edge of the blade with soft cloth is also helpful in case the blades are dirty. The other option is to replace the wiper blades that are a complete assembly consisting of metal frame and refills. Although this is slightly expensive, it can be done quickly and increases the windshield wipers’ efficiency and stops damage to the wiper. The windshield washer fluid reservoir has to be inspected and refilled when it is low. Windshield washer fluid is easily available in automotive parts stores.
In case the wipers move slowly or stop moving in extreme cold, the wiper motor must be checked. Removing the motor and adding grease and a drop or two of oil lubricates the motor and allows it to function at a normal speed.
The windshield wiper arm is the mechanical component that connects the windshield wiper blades to the windshield wiper motor that provides the movement. Without the windshield wiper arm, the entire windshield wiper system is of no use. In case the windshield wiper arm gets damaged, the only option is to replace the arm of the wiper with a new one. In case the wipers are frozen and stuck to the windshield or packed with snow, it’s important to free them before trying to use them. The windshield wiper system should be serviced periodically to ensure uninterrupted functioning.
