How to Fix Windshield Wiper Rubber?

When driving, consider a few things for everyone’s safety. These include seatbelts, tire condition, following traffic rules, proper brake functioning, and windshield wipers. One must not ignore anything, particularly the wipers and their rubber, as they enhance visibility in inclement weather.

Here is an expert guide showing you various techniques and tips for repairing rubber hoods.

• Learn About the Reasons for Damage
• Know the Windshield Wiper Types
• Gather the Materials and Tools Required
• Purchase the Appropriate Size
• Lift the Wiper Arms
• Remove the Old Wiper Blades and Rubber
• Install the New Rubber
• Adjust the Rubber to the Wipers
• Reattach the Wiper Blades
• Lower the Wiper Arms
• Check the Wipers for Proper Working

How to Fix Windshield Wiper Rubber?

People often believe the misconception that windshield wiper blade repair is complex because it involves several steps. However, when they read the material and watch videos about it, their worries disappear. Car owners must be careful when fixing this issue and follow these steps.

1. Learn About the Reasons for Damage

First, you should learn about the reasons for wiper rubber damage. There are various reasons for this, including:

• Extended exposure to sunlight.
• Extreme weather conditions like heat or freezing temperatures.
• Constant friction against the windshield.
• Dirt, debris, and chemicals

These factors can contribute to rubber degradation over time.

2. Know the Types of Windshield Wiper Blade Refills

Next, you should know about the windshield wipers that suit your car’s make and model. When you conduct proper research, you will learn about three kinds of wipers:

• The traditional windshield wipers have a metal frame and brackets attached to a rubber wiper blade.
• Beam windshield wipers are more streamlined. They have beams with one curved steel spring with a silicone blade or thick rubber.
• The Hybrid wipers combine elements of the beam and traditional windshield wipers.

3. Gather the Materials and Tools Required

After learning about the reasons and the type of windshield wipers, you should gather the materials and tools for wiper blade rubber replacement.

1. New windshield wiper rubber inserts.
2. Flathead screwdriver.
3. Clean cloth or paper towels.
4. Rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner.
5. Pliers.
6. Cutter for cutting excess rubber.

4. Purchase the Appropriate Size

Buying the right rubber size is vital to ensure the proper replacement of windshield wiper blades. You can know about the right size by:

• Consulting the car owner’s manual.
• Using a tape measure to check the size.
• Consult professionals auto glass repair specialist to know how to fix windshield wiper rubber.

5. Lift the Wiper Arms

• Car owners must lift the wiper arms in an upright position.
• You should keep pulling the wipers until they no longer move.
• Remove the rubber strap without damaging the windshield.
• Do not pull the wiper hard, as it might break off.

6. Remove the Old Wiper Blades and Rubber

• There should be a release button located on the wiper blades.
• Hold the button down and remove the blade by sliding it.
• Now, grip the bottom of the rubber and slide it towards you.
• You might also use a plier to remove the rubber if it is stuck.

7. Install the New Rubber

To restore the wiper blade rubber, you have to slide in the rubber on the wiper blades. You should ensure placing the rubber in the right slots so that the wiper will function properly. Another thing to note is not to twist, damage, or bend the rubber blades.

8. Adjust the Rubber to the Wipers

Sometimes, the rubber blades are longer than the windshield wipers, so you should adjust them according to the size. If this happens, you must cautiously remove the excess rubber. Another point to note here is to cut a few centimeters more to expand and contract easily during summer and winter, respectively.

9. Reattach the Wiper Blades

Place the wiper blades on the metal arms and gently press. You might hear a click sound when the blades reattach to the arm. Once these steps are complete for fixing the cracked wiper blade rubber, you should slowly lower the wipers back into position. Be careful, as lowering the metal arms quickly might damage the windshield.

10. Check the Wipers for Proper Working

Car owners must ensure they replace their wiper blades correctly and position them in working order.

• Switch on the ignition.
• Turn on the wipers to test their functionality.
• Ensure you install them correctly.
• There should be no issues with the working.

What damages windshield wipers?

Several factors can damage windshield wipers. These include prolonged exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, dirt, and debris accumulation, and the use of harsh chemicals for cleaning windshields.

Can you replace just the rubber on the windshield wipers?

You can replace or fix windshield wiper rubber without replacing the entire blade. Many wiper blades are designed with replaceable rubber inserts, which allow you to remove the old rubber and install new ones.

How to glue windshield wiper rubber?

You can start by cleaning the wiper blade and ensuring it’s dry. Then, apply a small amount of rubber adhesive and carefully press to ensure even coverage. Give sufficient drying time before using the wipers.

Conclusion

Car owners should follow these steps to fix windshield wiper rubber if they want seamless performance and visibility. They should learn about the reasons for damage, know the windshield wiper types, and gather the required materials and tools. They must also purchase the appropriate size, remove the old wiper blades and rubber, install the new rubber, and reattach the wiper blades. You can consult windshield repair experts to learn more about fixing rubber.