Windshield wipers are one of the most essential components of a vehicle, especially during rainy or snowy weather. They help to ensure clear visibility while driving, and they are crucial for the safety of both the driver and other road users. However, sometimes, windshield wipers may overextend, causing damage to themselves and other parts of the vehicle. In this article, we will explore the causes of windshield wiper overextending and provide some solutions to this problem.
Causes of Windshield Wiper Overextending
- Worn out wiper blades: Over time, the rubber on the wiper blades can wear out, making them less effective at wiping away rain, snow, and debris. This can cause the wipers to overextend as they try to compensate for the lack of contact with the windshield.
- Ice or snow buildup: During cold weather, ice and snow can accumulate on the wiper blades, causing them to become heavier and more difficult to move. This can put a strain on the wiper motor, causing it to overwork and eventually overextend.
- Bent wiper arms: If the wiper arms become bent, they may not be able to move the wiper blades effectively, causing them to overextend.
- Wiper motor malfunction: If the wiper motor is malfunctioning, it may not be able to move the wiper blades correctly, causing them to overextend.
Solutions to Windshield Wiper Overextending
- Replace worn-out wiper blades: If the wiper blades are worn out, they need to be replaced as soon as possible. This will ensure that they make proper contact with the windshield and do not overextend.
- Clear ice and snow buildup: During cold weather, it is important to clear any ice or snow buildup on the wiper blades before using them. This will prevent them from becoming heavy and difficult to move, which can cause overextension.
- Check and adjust wiper arm alignment: If the wiper arms are bent, they need to be replaced or adjusted to ensure that they move the wiper blades effectively.
- Repair or replace wiper motor: If the wiper motor is malfunctioning, it needs to be repaired or replaced to ensure that the wiper blades move correctly and do not overextend.
What causes windshield wipers to bounce?
Windshield wipers can bounce for several reasons, but the most common one is due to worn out wiper blades. As the age of the blade, lose its flexibility and can develop cracks, which can cause them to skip and bounce across the windshield. Additionally, built-up debris or ice on the windshield can also cause the wipers to bounce. Poorly installed wiper blades or a damaged wiper arm can also lead to this problem. To prevent wiper bounce, it’s important to replace your wiper blades regularly and keep your windshield clean.
How do I stop my windscreen wipers from juddering?
If your windscreen wipers are juddering, it’s likely that the blades are not making proper contact with the windshield. To fix this issue, first, check the condition of your wiper blades, as worn or damaged blades can cause juddering. If the blades are in good condition, then clean your windshield thoroughly, as dirt and debris on the glass can also cause juddering.
You can also try applying a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the blades or using a specialized wiper blade cleaner to improve their grip. In some cases, the wiper arm may be bent or damaged, requiring replacement. If you’ve tried these steps and the juddering persists, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect your wiper system for any underlying issues.
Conclusion
Windshield wiper overextending is a common problem that can affect the safety and functionality of a vehicle. The causes of this problem include worn-out wiper blades, ice or snow buildup, bent wiper arms, and wiper motor malfunction. To solve this problem, it is important to replace worn-out wiper blades, clear ice, and snow buildup, check and adjust wiper arm alignment, and repair or replace the wiper motor. By taking these steps, drivers can ensure that their windshield wipers are in good working condition and can provide clear visibility while driving, even in harsh weather conditions.
