How Does a Windshield Wiper Work?

A windshield wiper is a vehicle accessory responsible for clearing, or wiping, the windshield. A windshield wiper is attached via small clips to the main windshield wiper arm. The majority of automobiles use two windshield wipers, although some exotic, high-end automobiles use one long windshield wiper for the entire windshield.

Windshield wipers are designed to glide smoothly across the surface of a car's windshield. Made of weather-resistant rubber, windshield wipers perform the vital function of keeping a driver's field of vision as clear as possible during rain storms or other situations that mar, or blur, the windshield with foreign objects or sediments.

Windshield wiper operation is controlled by the driver, normally from a switch located either on the turn signal arm or from a switch located directly on the vehicle dashboard. Most vehicles allow for different windshield wiper speeds--from very slow to very fast--to accommodate various situations.

Windshield wipers should be routinely checked for adequate function and for any signs of wear. Windshield wiper replacement is very easy, and most replacement wiper blades can be obtained from a local automotive parts store and installed within minutes.