Having a properly working windshield wiper system is a must. When your windshield is covered with streaks after using your wipers it's time for new wiper blades. If your windshield wipers aren't moving back and forth properly or aren't moving at all, it may be a problem with the windshield wiper motor or even the wiper switch. Replace the necessary parts as soon as possible to ensure you aren't caught in a rain or snow storm without the ability to see the road.
Windshield Wiper Motor
The windshield wiper system utilizes an electric
windshield wiper motor and a worm gear to move the windshield wiper blades across the glass. The worm gear is special type of gear that multiplies the torque of the windshield wiper motor about 50 times while also reducing the speed on the windshield wiper motor by about 50 times. This is then connected to a linkage that moves the wipers across the glass. An electronic circuit senses when the wipers are in the down position. The power in the circuit is maintained until the wipers are positioned in the down position. When the wipers reach the down position, the power to the motor is cut.
Wiper Blades
A good wiper blade is necessary for having clear view of the road. Wiper Blades are thin rubber strips that are dragged across the windshield to clear away water, snow or dirt. Most are made out of rubber and will begin to crack after enough exposure to the sun. A properly working wiper blade will wipe water away without streaks. Once the blade develops cracks, it can no longer create a tight seal with the glass and streaks will appear. Another important factor for streak-free operation is having consistent pressure across the whole wiper blade. This is why there are multiple arms that branch out and connect the wiper blades to the main pivoting
wiper arm. Wiper blades should generally be replaced about every 6 months. They are usually designed for specific models due to the different shapes of windshields.
Windshield Wiper Switches
The windshield wipers are controlled by the windshield wiper switch located on the steering column. The majority of wipers have a high, low and intermittent setting. The motor will run continuously when the windshield wiper switch is set to low or high. When on the intermittent setting, the motor will stop between wipes. It is important to be able to control the speed of the wiper blade during different weather conditions and different driving speeds. It is also important to keep your
wiper shaft,
wiper linkage and
wiper motor kit in good working order.
Common Wiper Blade Components
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