Wiper arm: common faults and their symptoms

1. Deformation
   • Operating wipers hit front body pillars.
   • Dirty streaks remain after wiper operation.
2. Jamming
   • After switching on from the passenger compartment, the wiper arm is not swinging.
   • Wiper blades do not return to initial position when the wiper arm is disengaged.
3. Loosened fasteners
   • Wiper blades are working asynchronously.
   • Сomponents move with jerks.

How to replace a wiper arm?

Usually, a faulty component cannot be repaired. A defective windscreen wiper arm is to be replaced. It is recommended to simultaneously replace the right and left wiper arms. The process of replacement is fairly complicated. Therefore, if you do not have experience in car repair, it is better to contact a service station. If you are confident in your own abilities, stick to the following algorithm to replace car wiper arms:

1. Set the arms in the upright position, and unscrew the retaining nuts.
2. Disconnect the arms from wiper pins, and gently remove them.
3. Install new car parts and secure them with retaining nuts.

When replacing the arms it is recommended to install new wiper blades as well, since their service life is quite short. When replacing windscreen wiper arms, also check the rear wiper arm, it may also have to be replaced.