Introduction to Windshield Wiper Problems
Windshield wipers are an invaluable feature added to your vehicle. Without them, driving during bad weather conditions would be impossible. Since wipers are so important to your driving ability, it is vital that they be in good condition and well maintained. The best defence for keeping your wipers in good working condition is to check them regularly.
You should do a regular maintenance check of your wiper to avoid having any windshield wiper problems. When doing a maintenance check, you should start by turning your wipers on and making sure that they are working properly at all speed levels. Spray some of the fluid onto your windshield and turn the wipers on to see if they can clearly remove the liquid. You should then clean your wiper blades with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris on them. After they are cleaned, you should examine the blades to see that they still look alright. Wipers are made of rubber and they will start to go bad over time so be sure that there is no cracking or chipping on the wiper blades. This complete maintenance check will show you if you have any windshield wiper problems.
Know When There is a Problem
During your maintenance check, you will be able to notice any problem with your wipers. If your blades are beginning to chip and crack, then it is time to buy replacements. If you wipers are making a scratching noise when you turn them on or did not get rid of the liquid cleanly, they have windshield wiper problems. First, try to check the arms of the wipers. Turn the wipers on and closely watch the wipers to see if they look bent or out of shape. If they do, you should check in with your mechanic and ask him to adjust the arms of you wipers (if you know what you are doing, you can do this step yourself).
If the wipers seem to be in good working condition, then it is probably a problem with your blades. The rubber may be starting to go bad or they may be just poorly made. Either way the blades should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If your wipers are not running correctly or they will not turn on at all, there are more windshield wiper problems. The first thing you should do is to turn your wipers off so that you do not burn out the motor. Then you need to check to see if there is any debris that is stuck onto your wipers. This could cause your wipers to get jam up and not move. If you see anything, carefully remove it and then try your wipers again.
When to See a Mechanic
If after removing the debris, your wipers are still not moving it may be time to see a mechanic. You most likely have a fuse that blew out or a problem with the wiper motor. If you know how to, you can try to change the fuse and see if that helps. If you do not know how to do that or if changing the fuse did not solve the problem it is time to call your mechanic and have him fix your wipers. |
