Why Your Wiper Motor Makes Strange Noises – Identify the Source
Your windshield wipers are often overlooked until the moment you desperately need them. And that’s usually when something goes wrong. A common but often unsettling issue is a noisy wiper motor. Unusual sounds coming from your wipers can range from annoying squeaks and groans to alarming grinding and clicking. Ignoring these noises can lead to complete wiper failure at the worst possible time. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for proper maintenance and preventing a costly repair.
Squeaking and Chattering: Blade Issues
The most frequent culprit behind wiper noise, particularly squeaking or chattering, is often the wiper blades themselves. Over time, wiper blades harden and deteriorate, making them unable to properly glide across the windshield. A dry windshield exacerbates this issue. The resulting friction creates the irritating squeaking or chattering noises you hear. Another cause could be debris stuck under the blade or damage to the blade’s rubber edge. Inspect your wiper blades for tears, cracks, or signs of wear. Try cleaning the windshield thoroughly and applying a thin layer of rain repellent
Groaning and Slow Movement: Motor Strain
A low, groaning sound accompanied by slow or labored wiper movement often indicates stress on the wiper motor. This can be caused by several factors. A build-up of snow or ice can overload the motor, causing it to strain to move the wipers across the windshield. Similarly, dried leaves or other debris lodged beneath the wiper arms can impede their movement. Check for obstructions and clear away any buildup. In other cases, the wiper motor itself might be beginning to fail due to age or internal wear. This is where choosing the Auto Repair in Englewood, CO based service would be essential.
Clicking and Grinding: Mechanical Issues
Loud clicking or grinding sounds are more serious and typically point to mechanical problems within the wiper linkage or the motor itself. The wiper linkage connects the motor to the wiper arms, allowing them to move in unison. A loose or damaged linkage can cause a clicking sound as components rub against each other. Grinding noises usually indicate internal damage to the wiper motor gears or bearings. These sounds are a clear sign that the system needs professional attention. Continuing to operate the wipers with these noises can lead to further damage and potentially leave you stranded in bad weather.
Unusual Operation: Electrical Problems
Sometimes, wiper motor noise is accompanied by erratic operation, such as wipers stopping mid-sweep or not turning on at all. This could indicate an electrical problem. A blown fuse is the first and easiest thing to check. If the fuse is intact, the issue might be a faulty wiring connection, a damaged switch, or a malfunctioning wiper motor relay. These problems require a trained technician with diagnostic tools to accurately pinpoint and resolve the electrical issue.
Ignoring strange wiper motor noises can lead to more significant problems and potentially compromise your safety, especially during inclement weather. Addressing these sounds promptly, whether by replacing the blades, removing obstructions, or seeking professional repair, will ensure your wipers function correctly when you need them most.
