You Should Know This About Your Car Wiper Arm

Do you know how important a wiper arm is? Well, Parts Avatar has covered all the information you need to know. The windshield wiper arms are essential as they grip the wipers in the required position through the entire range of motion. They are geared on one end to take the motor that supposedly drives the wipers while the other end has more than one clip designs. The windshield wiper arm gets attached tightly into the clip so that it can remain tucked between the windshield wiper arm and the windshield.

Power reaches the windshield wiper motors from one of two paths, when the windshield wipers actuate and the switch sends a signal through the fuse or a relay. The motor starts moving back and forth as per the driver’ needs when it reaches the windshield wiper motor. The wiper blades drag the liquid off the glass as soon as the motor turns the wiper arms that are connected to the motor.

It is only because of the windshield wipers that the windshield remains free of rain, snow, grit and debris. Although, the entire thing will be a failure if the wiper blades don’t receive the right assistance from the windshield wiper arm. Generally situated under the engine hood (and directly in front of the dashboard), the wiper arm is connected to the windshield wiper motor. It is because if this entire procedure that the driver is able to see properly and drive safely.

Well, these wiper arms are composed of durable metals that include steel and aluminum. These are designed to endure constant use and harsh weather. Although, they are designed to last a lifetime, an unforeseen situation may end up damaging the wiper arms. So, if the wiper arms of your vehicle are damaged, you are likely to notice the following symptoms:

1. The paint starts flaking from the wiper arm - Generally, wiper arms are painted with black protective powder that helps it withstand the elements. Although durable, at times it may start flaking or wearing down off the wiper blade arms. So, when the paint washes off, the metal is exposed leading to rust or metal fatigue, ultimately leading to damage being caused to wiper arm. If noticed immediately, the wiper can be repaired rather than simply being removed.
2. The windshield gets streaked - The dirt and other materials are properly cleaned when the wiper blades function in order while damaged ones can lead to the blades bowing in or out. This can lead to streaks on the windshield. In case you notice steaks, note that the wiper arm is not getting the required tension on the blade that helps in keeping it across the windshield.
3. The windshield wipers chattering - In case you encounter the blades chattering as the wiper arms go across, then take this as a warning. The reason behind this includes improperly lubricated wiper blades or cracked windshields. Change your bent wiper as soon as possible if you notice the windshield wiper blades chattering or running roughly.
4. Failed contact between the wiper shield and the wiper blades - This is also indicative of an underlying issue with the windshield wiper arm that is present. When the blade fails to establish a contact with the windshield, a bent wiper arm (usually upwards) should be suspected. This leads to failure in maintaining the right pressure to keep the blade edge on the windshield. So, make sure that both the wiper arms and wiper blades are working well in synchronization.
5. No movement in the wiper blades after actuation - Mostly, this symptom is indicative of a problem with the wiper motor, but at times, the wiper arm can also trigger this problem. It happens due to stripped, lose or broken wiper arm attachment. In such cases, you are likely to hear the motor running without any actual movement in the wiper blades.

Are you thinking of repairing your wiper arm on your own? Then there is one thing which you must have, that is the right tools needed for repairing your wiper arm. It is essential to make sure that you are outfitted with the right tools to get the work done properly. Have a look at some tools which you might need to get started with your repair work:

• Some free repair manuals
• Number of makes and models
• A pair of protective gloves
• A ratchet, extension and sockets of the appropriate size
• Red Loctite (not always)
• A pair of safety glasses
• A small flat head screwdriver
• A wiper arm puller (not always)

When it comes to vehicle owner’s choice, the brands really matter a lot. You might pay a premium for a specific car part brand, over time, as it has created a perception of quality, stability as well as trust. There are some leading car parts brands which are more than just products or services as they give rise to memories and emotions related with the quality. So have a look at some of the top brands for wiper arm:

Know about the parts linked to wiper arm? It is very important to arm yourself with information before you shop any auto part. We are here to help you dive deep into the names of the wiper arm related parts:

• Wiper Blade
• Motor Arm
• Wiper Motor
• Wiper Transmission

Wiper Arm replacement cost can differ wildly depending on application, the brand of the Wiper Arm as well as who does the work. All you have to do is to replace your faulty Wiper Arm with us online and then you can leave your car to the mechanic and pick it up a few days later. Just be sure that the car mechanic is highly skilled and has a good reputation. Sometimes the additional service level might cost you more than what you have expected. We also recommend you to take pictures of your car before you leave it with them so that you are sure that later on it is returned back to you in an unharmed condition. Generally, the cost of replacing a windshield wiper arm can be estimated around $138 and $146. Installation costs are estimated somewhere around $17 to $23 while the price of the parts starts from $121 to $123. Note that gauge does exclude duties and expenses.

Confused about where to start from? Well, the windshield wiper arm is attached to the wiper linkage. It holds the blades together. As time passes, the arm often gets bent or damaged, mostly during the winter season. So, when the windshield wiper arm is damaged, you are likely to encounter wiper streaks and chatters across the windshield. Sometimes, there is no movement at all. So, following these instructions, you can change the wiper arms:

Step 1

• Begin with replacing the wiper arm. For that remove the pivot arm nut cover using a small screwdriver (one with a flathead). Carefully, go to the pivot nut cover to remove it. Then disconnect the arm retaining nut.

Step 2

• Make use of a ratchet, extension and socket of the required size to remove the arm retaining nut.
• Remove the wiper arm by pulling it up and off the linkage stud immediately. It is important to note that on a number of vehicles, the wiper arm is pressed on and might require a special puller for complete removal.

Step 3

• Fix the arm on the linkage stud and install the arm retaining nut back again. Tighten it up using a ratchet, extension and socket of the right size. Well, it is always better to put the red Loctite on the retaining nut threads in order to prevent the arm from backing off. Finally, after all has been done, install the pivot nut cover back again.