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Severe skipping of windshield wipers

3K views 6 replies 5 participants last post by  Yodaforce 
#1 ·
I have an annoying issue with my windshield and/or wipers, that I need help on! I have an '04 Tacoma that I've owned since '06. I absolutely LOVE the truck, but for one thing... the wipers severely skip, squeak and vibrate on the windshield. It's happened since I bought the vehicle. Even after I've replaced the windshield (broken from a rock), and after trying several different brands of wipers (cheap to very expensive). It happens whether I'm stopped or driving on the highway, and doesn't matter whether it's misting or in a heavy downpour. I just recently replaced wipers (about a month ago) with Toyota OEM wipers, due to the previous ones (Bosch) skipping and vibrating to the point I couldn't stand it anymore. I th ought this would solve the issue. All was good for about a week, then these replacements started skipping severely as well... The only temporary relief is when I squirt Rain-X wiper fluid on the windshield (even when it's raining!). The skipping goes away for about (10) wipes, then start right back! I've recently noticed all the replacement blades are rather loose in the wiper arms, and can wobble in all directions. Could defective wiper arms be the cause of the skipping? Does anyone have a "cure-all" to this issue. Please help! :brickknoc
 
#2 ·
Replace the arms. The original arms are not putting the correct amount of pressure on the glass. And, stop using Rain-X..
 
#3 ·
Thanks for the feedback! It now makes sense, since the wiper arms are the only thing that has never been replaced, and the problem hasn't gone away! Also, why not use Rain-X washer fluid? Is there another washer fluid you recommend? Should I clean the windshield with somethign to remove the Rain-X residue?
 
#5 ·
As a windshield repair specialist. I inform my clients that use rain-x or other similar products. Once used over a stone shot. That stone shot cannot be repaired. The petroleum base of the products adhere to the glass keeping the resin from adhering and doing its job to repair. Plus, it really doesn't make a huge difference unless you reside in an area prone to snowfall. Then, it may help in the removal of snow and ice. But, any windshield will deflect rain with no wipers at 40mph..
 
#6 ·
You should lift the blades off the windshield after you used them to set the wiper edge straight. If you don't they will wear in bent upward which is where they sit when you turn your wipers off. I heard of using a clay bar or Bon Ami powder cleaner to clean a windwhield and the wiper blades of contaminants.
 
#7 ·
I have always used Windex (brand name, not cheap imitation) and I get similar results as with Rain X. Also, when I clean the windshield, I use the same towel (an actual towel, not paper towels or newspaper) to wipe of the rubber blade to remove bugs, oxidation, etc. My wipers usually last me about 4-6 months with no trouble.

x2 on the arms, even though I have never had this type of issue with any vehicle I have ever owned. My first thought was that there may be gear damage in the wiper motor housing, but if it will run normal for 10 minutes occasionally, then I doubt it.
 
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