Windshield Wipers FAQs

Thompson Sales wants you to enjoy your car and get the most out of it. That’s why we offer certified service technicians to repair and maintain your car at regular intervals. 

Take a look at our answers to frequently asked questions about windshield wiper blades.

What are windshield wipers made of?

The part that attaches to the arms is made of metal, while the part that contacts your windshield is made of rubber or silicone.

How do windshield wipers work?

All you have to do is operate your windshield wiper’s controls to make them work. But it takes a coordinated effort to get the wipers to work.

1. An electric motor in the engine compartment, near the windshield, attaches to a worm gear system.
2. The worm gears attach to a metal rod, and there are two of these on each car.
3. Wiper blades slide snugly into the metal rods. 
4. The motors turn the gears, while the gears move the metal rods, and the metal rods hold the rubber blades that come in contact with the windshield.

Why does my car need working windshield wipers?

Windshield wipers keep rain, snow, moisture, and debris off of your windshield so you can see properly as you drive. They are a required safety feature on all cars, and if they’re broken, your vehicle won’t pass a safety inspection.

What causes my windshield wipers to malfunction?

Your vehicle’s windshield wipers may malfunction due to a few reasons.

1. Wiper motor not working. The electrical motor may not be functioning correctly, which could cause your wipers to move too slowly or not at all.
2. Fuse blown out. If a fuse blows out, your vehicle may be having some kind of electrical issue with the motor, wires, or electrical production.
3. Ice. Windshield wipers don’t work well with ice or heavy snow. Clear away these obstacles first before running your windshield wipers. 
4. Loose wiper pivot nuts. Pivot nuts hold the metal wipers to the motor that turns them. If any of those pivot nuts are loose, the blades won’t contact the windshield correctly.
5. Torn rubber. This is the most common problem with windshield wipers because the rubber on the blades wears down over time. The wiper doesn’t move smoothly against the windshield. When this happens, you might see streaks on the windshield or hear a rubber/grinding noise.

What are signs I need to replace my windshield wiper blades?

1. Streaking noises and streaks of water when the windshield wipers move across the glass.
2. Wiper blades leave a film behind after they move over the glass.
3. Blades stick to the glass when moving.
4. Wipers not effective in removing moisture.

Are there different types of windshield wiper blades?

Yes, there are three main types.

1. Conventional. The blades consist of conventional rubber held in a metal frame. Traditionally, cars had these types of wipers, but they are less common now.
2. Beam. Wiper blades on newer cars typically have beam-type windshield wipers. These high-tech wipers consist of one single piece to decrease the potential for breaking. Beam wipers also have a curve in them, so they lay against the windshield more effectively because the windshield is also curved.
3. Hybrid. These types of windshield wipers offer pivoting suspension points on the metal frame to hold the rubber firmly against the glass of the windshield.

How often should I replace my windshield wipers?

Typically, replace your windshield wipers about every 12 months. You may need to replace them more often if you live in colder climates.

What are intermittent wipers?

Intermittent wipers work in timed intervals for when it’s just misty out rather than raining heavily. You can set the timer with the wiper controls. This keeps the wipers from running constantly, which wears the rubber more quickly.

What size windshield wipers do I need?

Your vehicle owner’s manual will tell you the size of windshield wipers you need. The length depends on the size of your windshield. Taller and wider windshields may need longer wiper blades.

Lengths typically range from 15 to 22 inches. 

How do I know what windshield wipers to buy?

Your vehicle owner’s manual and your chosen auto parts retailer will help you determine what windshield wipers you need to purchase.

Can my car fail a safety inspection because of bad windshield wipers?

Yes, because failing windshield wipers can cause a safety hazard.

How much is a pair of new windshield wipers?

Anywhere from $15 to $30, depending on the brand, material, and size.

How do I replace my windshield wipers?

Replacing your car’s windshield wiper blades is a fairly simple process. Your owner’s manual or the manufacturer of the wiper blades will explain how to switch out the old ones for new ones.

Here is a general guide:

1. Understand the parts of your windshield wipers. You’ll see three main parts, including the wiper arm that moves back and forth from the motor, the metal blade attached to the arm that holds the rubber part, and then the wiper blade itself.
2. Pull the wiper blades up and away from the windshield. They should stay perpendicular and straight up in the air without you needing to hold them.
3. Look at the joint where the wiper blade attaches to the metal arm. There is a mechanism that holds the blade in place. You might see a hook or pins that accomplish this.
4. Press the hook, pins, button, or stopper to release the old wiper blade.
5. Slide the old blade out or pull it away.
6. Pro tip: Keep a cotton towel against the windshield in case the wiper snaps back down accidentally. You don’t want a damaged windshield.
7. Slide the new wiper blade in the opposite way you took the old one out. You should hear or see the new wiper blade snap into place.
8. Do the same thing for the second wiper blade.
9. Turn on the engine and test the new wiper blades to make sure they work properly.

How much does it cost to have someone replace my windshield wiper blades?

Anywhere from $25 to $40. Labor costs are relatively minor because windshield wipers are fairly easy to replace.

However, other problems with windshield wipers may cost more money to fix or replace, such as if you have a problem with the motor.

Who can replace my car’s windshield wiper blades in Springfield, Missouri?

Make an appointment with the certified technicians at Thompson Sales in Springfield, Missouri. We can replace windshield wiper blades at any time.