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Cleaning Car Windows
How to Fix Squeaky Windshield Wipers: Best Tips, Tricks, & More Download Article Kick squeaky windshield wipers to the curb with our 12 solutions Co-authored by Mike Parra and Savannah Vold
Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Fact Checked
Download Article
Resolving Common Causes of Squeaking
|
Cleaning the Windshield and Blades
|
Replacing Wiper Parts
|
Video
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|
Things You'll Need
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Mike Parra and by wikiHow staff writer, Savannah Vold. Mike Parra is a Master Mechanic in Arizona. With over 20 years of mechanic experience, he has experience working with American, European, and other foreign makes and models. He is ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified and has an AA degree in Automotive Repair Technology. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,365,353 times.
Squeak, squeak, squeak…alright already! The piercing shriek of your windshield wipers can make each use an irritating, even distracting experience. While various factors can cause squeaking, the good news is that they’re all easy fixes! In this article, we’ll teach you exactly why your wipers may be squeaking and how to fix them once and for all. So, you can rest easy knowing that annoying squeak will be as good as gone.
Best Ways to Stop Squeaky Window Wipers
Soften the wiper blades by applying either rubbing alcohol or WD-40 with a cloth. Then, wipe your windshield with glass cleaner to remove surface dirt and grime. If you still hear squeaking, try tightening the wiper arm or replacing the wiper blades.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Resolving Common Causes of Squeaking
Download Article
1 Refill your windshield wiper fluid. Many wipers skip and squeak because the windshield isn't quite wet enough to glide across. Check your fluid level and top it off if it’s low. This way, your sprayers will be ready to blast out squeak-busting wiper fluid should the problem occur.[1]XResearch source
The simplest way to tell if your wiper fluid is running low is to give your sprayers a test. Hit your wiper fluid button—if little or no fluid sprays out, time to fill ‘er up!
2 Adjust the position of the wiper blades when necessary. Windshield wipers are designed to follow the motion of the wiper arm. If your blades are stiff and aren’t trailing behind the arm in a back-and-forth motion, twist the arm with your hands to loosen the stiffness.[2]XResearch source
Blades that are too tight won’t be able to alternate back and forth to trail behind the wiper arm smoothly, which causes chattering and squeaking.
Wiper blades should never appear to "dig" into the windshield or remain vertical as they sweep across the windshield.
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3 Soften your windshield wipers. Stiff wiper blades can also cause chattering and squeaking. Some blades may be stiff fresh from the box, while others may become stiffened through exposure to the elements, making them appear dry and brittle. Replace year-old blades, or soften newer blades with the following solutions:
ArmorAll: With an ArmorAll wipe, rub the blade’s rubber using small, circular motions to soften it up.
Rubbing alcohol: Dampen a paper towel with rubbing alcohol. Gently buff the rubber of the blade with the rubbing alcohol-dampened towel.
WD-40: Use this technique sparingly, as too much WD-40 can dry out rubber. Spray a little WD-40 on a paper towel, lightly apply it to the blade's rubber, then wipe it dry.[3]XResearch source
4 Adjust the tightness of the fasteners. Check if your blades or the wiper assemblies under them are too loose or too tight. Too little or too much tension between the glass and the wiper can result in the annoying chattering or squeaking we’re looking to avoid.[4]XResearch source
Tighten fasteners with a wrench by turning them clockwise or loosen them by turning them counterclockwise.
You may need to experiment with the tightness to find what works best. Ideally, the blades should be firmly in place but loose enough to sweep back and forth across the windshield.
5 Remove friction-increasing films with windshield polish. Common automotive surface protectants, like Rain-X or certain kinds of wax, can cause chattering or squeaking. Remove the product and eliminate obnoxious wiper noises by using a microfiber cloth to buff a small amount of the polish across the entirety of the windshield.[5]XResearch source
The film left behind by certain automotive surface products can increase the friction between the wiper blades and the windshield, creating unpleasant noises like squeaking.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Cleaning the Windshield and Blades
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1 Remove buildup from your wiper blades. First, lift the wiper blade so it is oriented away from the windshield. Then, wet a paper towel with a small amount of hot, soapy water or rubbing alcohol. Wipe the blades with the paper towel(s) until it comes away clean.[6]XResearch source
Check if your wipers are dirty by running your finger along the blade—if it comes up dusty or blackened, it’s time to give them a clean.
Remember to clean the arm and hinged parts as well. Hinged parts of the wiper assembly can stiffen with dirt and grime, contributing to squeakiness.
You may need several paper towels for extremely dirty wipers. If your paper towel is flimsy, double it before wiping, or use a microfiber cloth.
If your wiper blades don't stay in position when pulled away from the windshield, hold the blade away from the glass with your free hand and clean them one at a time.
2 Clean the windshield glass thoroughly with glass cleaner. Coat your windshield with a generous amount of ammonia-free glass cleaner. Then, wipe a microfiber cloth across the glass using top-to-bottom motions until your windshield is spotless and shiny.[7]XResearch source
Determine if your windshield is dirty by looking through it to note if your vision is impaired, or run a clean paper towel outside the glass. If it comes back coated in grime, the squeaking may be caused by built-up dirt on the windshield.
Try filling a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar and use it as you would glass cleaner. Avoid getting vinegar on painted areas of your car, as it might break down your paint.
Be sure to only use ammonia-free glass cleaners, as ammonia-based cleaners can damage tinting and cause the plastic around your windshield to degrade.
3 Clean a dirty windshield with baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on a water-dampened paper towel for easy application. Then wipe your windshield with the solution using top-to-bottom motions until the glass is visibly clean.
If your windshield is extra dirty (built-up bird poop, sap, pollen), baking soda is the perfect heavy-duty solution for a spotless clean.
Replace paper towels sprinkled with baking soda as necessary. You’re likely to go through multiple before finishing your windshield.
4 Remedy squeaking on the go with alcohol wipes. If squeaking starts when you’re on the road, you won’t have the luxury of having household supplies on hand. Instead, keep some alcohol wipes in your car. When squeaking occurs, pull over somewhere safe and wipe the rubber of both blades until they're clean with your handy dandy alcohol wipes.[8]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Replacing Wiper Parts
Download Article
1 Install new rubber inserts. If the non-rubber blade and arm parts are still in good condition, you won’t need to replace them. But sometimes, the rubber breaks down faster than non-rubber parts (especially in sunny areas), leaving them cracked and falling apart. Remove and replace the rubber blade inserts to stop squeaking in its tracks.[9]XResearch source
Consult your owner's manual to determine what size inserts you need.
2 Replace your wiper blades regularly. Pull the metal arm away from the windshield. Where the blade attaches to the arm, there will be a joint. On this, you’ll find a release for the arm. Open the release, take out the old blade, insert your new blade, and reset the release.[10]XResearch source
On some cars, a push-tab or tension hook may attach the blades to the arm assembly. Release these kinds of fasteners with your hands and slide off the blade.
If you haven't changed your wiper blades in the past year, they may cause your squeaking. A good rule of thumb is to replace them before the rainy season or every 6 months.
3 Replace the wiper assembly. Follow the wiper blade down the arm to its base. You’ll see a nut sticking up from this point. Remove the nut with a wrench and pull the arm off. Fit a replacement arm into place and fasten the nut. Now, your new assembly is good to go![11]XResearch source
With time and continued use, the assemblies holding your wiper blades in place can become misshapen or inflexible, contributing to squeaking. A warped wiper assembly is a tell-tale sign that it needs replacing.
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Expert Q&A
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Video
Tips
After finding a perfect new set of windshield wiper blade refills, note the brand name and type, so you'll know what to buy the next time you need to replace them. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 2
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Foreign buildup, like dirt, can cause squeakiness when splashed onto your car. Avoid making (or getting) into big splash when it rains. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
Never add dishwashing detergent to your washer fluid. This could cause your windshield to become even squeakier. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 5
Don’t use wipers when the windshield is frosty. This can cause increased wear and tear to your wipers. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Replacing your blades can be a process of trial and error. Different car models will require different sizes and styles of wipers. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Never wax your windshield, as this could make the glass and blades slippery and prevent you from seeing in severe weather conditions. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 4
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Things You’ll Need
Microfiber cloths (Optional)
Replacement wiper assembly (Optional)
Replacement wiper blades (Optional)
Rubbing alcohol (Optional)
Ammonia-free glass cleaner (Optional)
Spray bottle (Optional)
Undiluted white vinegar (Optional)
Baking soda (Optional)
Windshield wiper fluid (Optional)
ArmorAll (Optional)
WD-40 (Optional)
Windshield Polish (Optional)
Replacement Rubber Inserts (Optional)
Wrench (optional)
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Co-authored by: Mike Parra Master Mechanic This article was co-authored by Mike Parra and by wikiHow staff writer, Savannah Vold. Mike Parra is a Master Mechanic in Arizona. With over 20 years of mechanic experience, he has experience working with American, European, and other foreign makes and models. He is ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified and has an AA degree in Automotive Repair Technology. This article has been viewed 1,365,353 times. 44 votes - 87% Co-authors: 28Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 1,365,353 Categories: Cleaning Car WindowsArticle SummaryX
To stop your windshield wiper blades from squeaking, try wiping down the blades with hot, soapy water or rubbing alcohol and see if that fixes the problem. If that doesn't work, try twisting the windshield wiper arms so they're not as stiff since stiff blades can cause squeaking and chattering. You can also rub some ArmorAll or WD-40 on the blades to soften them so they're not as squeaky. Also, if the fasteners holding your windshield wipers are too loose or tight, adjust them with a wrench and see if that helps. To learn how to replace squeaky windshield wipers, scroll down!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Onyibo Muanya
Feb 7, 2023
"This article is educative and informative. I have owned cars, but I have never maintained my wipers the way and manner this article explained it. That explained why my wipers got bad frequently. Thank you."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Mike Parra Master Mechanic Co-authors: 28Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 1,365,35387% of readers found this article helpful. 44 votes - 87% Click a star to add your vote
Onyibo Muanya
Feb 7, 2023
"This article is educative and informative. I have owned cars, but I have never maintained my wipers the way and manner this article explained it. That explained why my wipers got bad frequently. Thank you."..." more
Gene Ledford
Nov 9, 2016
"My wiper blades are about a year old, but in very good shape. I cleaned them as instructed, and have used them in every rain storm we had for over a month with no squeaks."..." more
Stella Barrow
Dec 5, 2016
"I just had my windshield replaced and the wipers are chattering unmercifully. Before I tear into the guy that replaced it, I will try your recommendations."..." more
Robert Schreiber
Mar 20, 2017
"I now know how to save money by repairing my wiper blades vs. just getting new ones, because my wiper blades were streaking."..." more Rated this article:
Henry Huot
Apr 30, 2017
"It confirmed my thoughts that it could be caused by a dirty windshield. " Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Kick squeaky windshield wipers to the curb with our 12 solutions Co-authored by Mike Parra and Savannah Vold 
How toApply WD‐40 to Door Hinges 
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Co-authored by: Mike Parra Master Mechanic This article was co-authored by Mike Parra and by wikiHow staff writer, Savannah Vold. Mike Parra is a Master Mechanic in Arizona. With over 20 years of mechanic experience, he has experience working with American, European, and other foreign makes and models. He is ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified and has an AA degree in Automotive Repair Technology. This article has been viewed 1,365,353 times. 44 votes - 87% Co-authors: 28 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 1,365,353 Categories: Cleaning Car Windows Article SummaryX
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1 Refill your windshield wiper fluid. Many wipers skip and squeak because the windshield isn't quite wet enough to glide across. Check your fluid level and top it off if it’s low. This way, your sprayers will be ready to blast out squeak-busting wiper fluid should the problem occur.[1] 
2 Adjust the position of the wiper blades when necessary. Windshield wipers are designed to follow the motion of the wiper arm. If your blades are stiff and aren’t trailing behind the arm in a back-and-forth motion, twist the arm with your hands to loosen the stiffness.[2] 
3 Soften your windshield wipers. Stiff wiper blades can also cause chattering and squeaking. Some blades may be stiff fresh from the box, while others may become stiffened through exposure to the elements, making them appear dry and brittle. Replace year-old blades, or soften newer blades with the following solutions: 
4 Adjust the tightness of the fasteners. Check if your blades or the wiper assemblies under them are too loose or too tight. Too little or too much tension between the glass and the wiper can result in the annoying chattering or squeaking we’re looking to avoid.[4] 
5 Remove friction-increasing films with windshield polish. Common automotive surface protectants, like Rain-X or certain kinds of wax, can cause chattering or squeaking. Remove the product and eliminate obnoxious wiper noises by using a microfiber cloth to buff a small amount of the polish across the entirety of the windshield.[5] 
1 Remove buildup from your wiper blades. First, lift the wiper blade so it is oriented away from the windshield. Then, wet a paper towel with a small amount of hot, soapy water or rubbing alcohol. Wipe the blades with the paper towel(s) until it comes away clean.[6] 
2 Clean the windshield glass thoroughly with glass cleaner. Coat your windshield with a generous amount of ammonia-free glass cleaner. Then, wipe a microfiber cloth across the glass using top-to-bottom motions until your windshield is spotless and shiny.[7] 
3 Clean a dirty windshield with baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on a water-dampened paper towel for easy application. Then wipe your windshield with the solution using top-to-bottom motions until the glass is visibly clean. 
4 Remedy squeaking on the go with alcohol wipes. If squeaking starts when you’re on the road, you won’t have the luxury of having household supplies on hand. Instead, keep some alcohol wipes in your car. When squeaking occurs, pull over somewhere safe and wipe the rubber of both blades until they're clean with your handy dandy alcohol wipes.[8] Advertisement 
1 Install new rubber inserts. If the non-rubber blade and arm parts are still in good condition, you won’t need to replace them. But sometimes, the rubber breaks down faster than non-rubber parts (especially in sunny areas), leaving them cracked and falling apart. Remove and replace the rubber blade inserts to stop squeaking in its tracks.[9] 
2 Replace your wiper blades regularly. Pull the metal arm away from the windshield. Where the blade attaches to the arm, there will be a joint. On this, you’ll find a release for the arm. Open the release, take out the old blade, insert your new blade, and reset the release.[10] 
3 Replace the wiper assembly. Follow the wiper blade down the arm to its base. You’ll see a nut sticking up from this point. Remove the nut with a wrench and pull the arm off. Fit a replacement arm into place and fasten the nut. Now, your new assembly is good to go![11]