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How To Stop Wiper Blades From Squeaking

Rowan Johnstone

Updated 25 Nov 2024

Rowan Johnstone

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Windscreen wiper blades might be among the most overlooked components of our cars today. You likely only think about them when it starts raining, and suddenly you can't see the road. Instantly, these humble wipers transform into crucial safety tools.

With cars now packed with advanced features and technology, wiper blades often go unnoticed—until the next downpour. Even then, they quietly do their job unless they begin to make that dreaded squeaking sound.

Is anything more annoying than the relentless screech of wipers across your windshield? Suddenly, these once-forgotten parts become the most prominent feature, and you find yourself fixated on them, wishing for silence.

So How Do You Stop Them From Squeaking?

To prevent your wiper blades from squeaking, ensure there is enough moisture on the windshield for them to glide smoothly. Simply put, avoid using them on a dry windshield. 

Regularly cleaning your windshield while driving and keeping your car topped up with wiper fluid minimizes friction between the blades and the windshield, reducing the chance of squeaking.

Squeaking can also result from a dirty windshield, dirty wiper blades, or debris lodged under the blades. To address this, lift the wiper arms and check for any trapped debris or dirt. A quick wipe of the blades can also be helpful.

If there's nothing visibly wrong, applying a good amount of glass cleaner to your windshield can clear away stubborn dust, dirt, or grime. 

To ensure the wiper blades glide smoothly, try using an acrylic cleaner as a lubricant. However, if these solutions provide only temporary relief or don't work at all, your wiper blades might be cracked, worn, or deteriorated. Unfortunately, this means they need to be replaced. 

Hopefully, you’re still with me and haven't panicked, because replacing your wiper blades is quite affordable, costing only $15 to $30 each. Depending on your car model, the cost might vary if you can use simple blade refills or need to replace the entire wiper assembly.

While keeping your windscreen and blades clean is a cost-effective way to stop that annoying squeak, sometimes a complete replacement is the most straightforward solution.

If your wiper blades are driving you crazy and you’re due for a service, look for a mechanic who provides this extra perk when booking.

Rowan Johnstone

Written By

Rowan Johnstone

On weekends you’ll probably find Rowan in the garage with his Dad restoring a 1958 Ford Star Model Customline or enjoying a cruise through the Gold Coast hinterland on his Suzuki GSX-R600.

Despite his passion for being behind the wheel (or handlebars), he looks forward to the day when he can commute to work in his own driverless car.