How to Fix a Chattering Windshield Wiper

Windshield wipers deteriorate after 6 to 12 months of use and exposure to the elements. Good visibility on the roads is dependent on good wiper blades. If your wiper blades are worn or broken, you should replace them. Most of the time, you can replace only the rubber piece which is sold as a "refill."

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Wash the windshield of your car and the rubber blade of your wipers with white or cider vinegar. Use a soft cloth to clean them with vinegar and then hit the squirt on your wiper panel to clean the vinegar off of the windshield and the wipers.

2. Wipe the blade of the windshield wiper with cotton balls soaked in rubbing alcohol. Let the alcohol dry and then wash the windshield and the blades with your squirt.

3. Check the rubber on your wiper blade to see if it is still soft and flexible. If the rubber has deteriorated or dried out, replace the blade with a refill.

4. Look at the arm of the wiper blade to see if it is bent. A bent arm makes the blade not sit flat on the window and creates a chattering sound. Replace the complete wiper, including the arm if it is bent.

5. Test the spring tension on your wiper arm by carefully lifting the wiper off of the windshield and feeling the amount of resistance. If the spring tension is weak, the wiper blade doesn't make firm contact with the windshield and chatters. Replace the complete wiper.