Wiper linkage: what it does, how to troubleshoot and replace it

A windscreen wiper linkage is used to synch movements between a vehicle’s wiper blades. The blades are essential for the driver’s visibility, and any vehicle without a functioning wiper blade is considered unroadworthy. 

The front wiper linkage (transmission mechanism) is installed under the windshield specifically, below the cowl panel cover. If the linkage is broken or faulty, the blade stops working as intended.

If you are driving, especially when there is rain or on rough terrain, it is essential to ensure that the windscreen wiper linkage works correctly for your safety.

Can you replace a broken windshield wiper linkage yourself?

Yes. Repairing a windscreen wiper linkage for your car can be done right at home. Mainly, the wiper arms fail because they have rusted or are loose. Even a person with little mechanic experience can repair it with ease.

You must first diagnose the problem. In many instances, if the arms are moving slower than usual, then that means that the nut linking it to the car is loose.

Additionally, if the arm does not move, it might be broken. Therefore, if the arm is moving slower, tighten the nut. If the arm is broken, then buy a new one.

Things to remember when replacing the part

Before replacing the blade or fixing the wiper transmission, you must first know what part is causing the problem. That is because you might buy a new blade, but the problem will persist. Therefore, when replacing, remember that when one nut holding the wiper is loose, both the wiper arm nuts need to be re-tightened.

Furthermore, when both the wipers are working normally but often stop in the wrong position, remember that the motor arm connecting to the windshield wiper is loose. In this case, a trained professional is the best to consult rather than attempting to do it yourself. Further, the wipers should be in the right fitting position for a left-hand drive vehicle.

Types of windscreen wipers and their movements

• • Radial/pivot (left hand drive vehicles) – the blade for this windshield wiper moves in parallel motion, mainly in vehicles for the left hand.
• • Pivot (right hand drive vehicles) is the mirror reverse that belongs to the first wiper. Mostly found on right-handed cars.
• • Single blade arm- this windshield wiper is mainly used on rear windscreens. The wiper movement glides back and forth and has a center pivot.
• • Monoblade- this wiper is connected to a single arm that extends upwards, reaching the top corners of the windscreen. It glides at each end and the middle of the windscreen, thus creating an ‚M‘ shape pattern.
• • Sequential sweep- these types of wipers move in opposite directions simultaneously. They are more efficient because they cover a larger area of the windscreen.

Identifying symptoms of failure

Several signs can tell you that your windscreen wiper linkage is faulty. These warning signs indicate that the linkage is probably wearing out, and you need to get it fixed. They include:

The blades sputter while operating

The wiper blades are made to be smooth as they move back and forth. Additionally, they should move across the glass in an even motion while expelling any debris or water on the windshield. If the windscreen wiper linkage is broken, you will notice some hesitation during operation.

The rotation is out of sequence

Apart from the sequential sweep blades, the other wiper blades work in harmony and move in a similar direction. However, when you notice the blades are no longer moving in a similar sequence, especially on the passenger side, the wiper arm linkage might be worn out, or the wiper arm is loose.

Wiper blades are not moving when operated

If the windshield wiper arm linkage is broken, the blades will not move. Have this problem rectified soonest possible.

The wiper blade has a grinding noise

As the blades move across the windshield, they should not noise. If you notice a grinding noise, it is most likely that the windscreen wiper linkage is faulty. This might be because the blade arm is too tightly attached, and therefore the gears in the wiper motor linkage are grinding.

Frequently occurring issues with the wiper blade linkage.

• • Windscreen wiper transmission electrical problems are common- the wipers are programmed to clean the windshield repetitively until they are turned off. If they stop midway, it might be an electrical issue.
• • A malfunctioning windscreen wiper motor linkage – If your blades don’t return to their wiped position, then there’s a good chance that the motor might be the problem and should be checked out right away!
• • A loose nut mainly affects the transmission. It may also affect the windscreen cleaning system. Your screen may not always be wiped clean.
• • The windscreen wiper motor may not be getting sufficient energy from the car. This might cause humming noises on top of other problems you may experience while driving the car.

Other parts to replace when replacing the wiper arm linkage

When carrying out repairs, it is essential to broaden your scope to identify other areas that might be broken. For instance, the electric motor located inside the wiper might need a replacement. When the motor malfunctions, the wipers will not work at all. Therefore, carry out a visual inspection on the motor beforehand. 

Another part that might need a replacement is the wiper fuse. If the fuse is not working, then you should know it’s probably burnt out due to too much power going through it and could have been due to some maintenance on your car’s electrical system. Inspect if the wires are still intact to ensure everything else stays functioning properly!

Normal lifetime

Under normal conditions, a windscreen wiper blade will last 6-12 months. However, when there are adverse weather conditions, they may last only six months. That is because windshield wipers are made from rubber, which is highly degradable. Over time, they become less effective. Therefore, as a cautious driver, make it a habit to constantly check your wipers to recognize when they start failing.

How to ensure you purchase the right part for your car

It is essential to get the perfect match for your vehicle when replacing broken car parts. You may use OEM numbers and select a suitable model. Alternatively, you can visit autoparts-24.com and choose from a wide range of available options. All the parts are genuine and are guaranteed to brave the test of time.

Are you looking for a compatible spare part for your car but do not know where to get it from? Well, autoparts-24.com is a great place to start. You can find wipers for right hand drive vehicles and those for left right hand drive. We have a broad product range that you can use to replace the broken parts. Lastly, do not drive with a broken windscreen wiper blade because the windscreen cleaning system may not work correctly. The repercussions may be severe.