How do I Adjust Tension on Windshield Wipers?

by Chyrene Pendleton
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After a period of time, your windshield wiper blades start to lose their ability to wipe well, mainly because of continuous exposure to the weather. When you notice your windshield wiper blades continue making a squeaking or chattering sound, this means the wiper blade has problems rolling over the center and needs adjusting of the tension. This situation also means the wiper blade lost its flexibility. The blade begins to chatter or skip across the windshield. Adjust the tension in your windshield wiper blades to help keep you and your passengers safe.

Step 1

Turn your car ignition to the "On" position, without starting the engine.

Step 2

Turn on the windshield wipers and then stop them in the "Park" position, the lowest part of the wipe pattern.

Step 3

Manually lift one of the wiper blades off the windshield, then release it, letting it hit the glass. This procedure adjusts the tension in the wiper blades.

Step 4

Examine the park line, which looks like a small, horizontal mark on your windshield. Make certain your windshield wiper blade heel parked within 5 mm or almost 1/4 inch of the park line.

Step 5

Reposition the wiper blade heel just above the park line if the wiper blade tip hits the cowl screen excessively during normal use. The cowl screen exists as the area between the engine and the windshield. Ensure you have the wipers in the "Park" position before repositioning.

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