2 Simple Fixes to Stop Wiper Chatter and Get a Cleaner Windshield

Following these simple tips can improve windshield cleaning and get rid of those annoying wiper noises.

In this article, I’ll explain why windshield wipers can start squeaking or chattering and what you can do to fix the problem. We’ll look at two simple, effective ways to correct the wiper arm’s position and restore the proper spring tension. With a few basic adjustments, you can improve wiping performance and eliminate those irritating noises.

How to Stop Wiper Chatter and Improve Windshield Cleaning

The first cause of wiper chatter is improper contact between the wiper blade and the windshield. There’s an easy way to check it. Place a straightedge against the wiper arm and see how far the arm is tilted away from the proper plane. If the arm is bent or out of alignment, it needs to be straightened.

You can carefully correct the arm with pliers or another suitable tool. Straighten the arm and make sure the wiper blade sits perpendicular to the windshield. Once the blade is making proper contact with the glass, it should move more smoothly and do a better job of clearing water.

The second possible cause is a weakened spring inside the wiper arm mechanism. Some owners replace the spring with one from a brake component or another vehicle, but that usually isn't necessary. In many cases, the spring has only lost a small amount of its original tension.

Instead, you can carefully add a slight bend at the appropriate point to increase the spring's tension. This can often be done by hand, but don't overdo it. Once the tension has been corrected, adjust the wiper arm so its contact surface is properly aligned and parallel with the windshield.

These two small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in wiping performance and may eliminate the squeaking and chattering that occur when the blade doesn't sit correctly against the glass.