Wiper System

Fig 1: Inspecting Wiper Blades

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

The rear wiper blade and wiper arm should be inspected periodically, not just when wiper performance problems are experienced. This inspection should include the following points:

1. Carefully inspect the wiper blade for any indications of worn or uneven edges (1), foreign material deposits (2), hardening or cracking (3), deformation or fatigue (4), or splitting (5). Inspect the wiper blade support components and the wiper arm for damage (6). If the wiper arm and blade are contaminated with any foreign material, clean them and the glass as required. Refer to CLEANING . If the wiper blade or arm is damaged, replace it with a new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm or blade that is damaged or corroded.
2. Carefully lift the wiper blade off of the glass. Note the action of the wiper arm hinge. The wiper arm should pivot freely at the hinge, but with no lateral looseness evident. If there is any binding evident in the wiper arm hinge, or there is evident lateral play in the wiper arm hinge, replace the wiper arm.
   CAUTION:

   Do not allow the wiper arm to spring back against the glass without the wiper blade in place or the glass may be damaged.

3. Once proper hinge action of the wiper arm is confirmed, check the hinge for proper spring tension. The spring tension of the wiper arm should be sufficient to cause the rubber squeegee to conform to the curvature of the glass. Replace a wiper arm if it has insufficient spring tension to maintain contact between the squeegee and the glass.
4. After cleaning and inspecting the wiper components and the glass, if the wiper blade still fails to clear the glass without smearing, streaking, chattering, hazing, or beading, replace the wiper blade.