Had a fella roll into the shop the other day, driving a Mazda Axela. Said his wipers were “acting possessed”, going slow, stopping halfway, squeaking like mad. Happens more than you’d think, especially with the mix of soggy winters and dry summers we get here in Hamilton. So here’s a quick yarn on how to figure out what’s up with your wipers.
1. Wipers not moving properly?
If your wipers are slow, stop mid-swipe, or don’t move at all, first thing to check is the wiper motor. These can wear out over time, especially with all the stop-start driving around Hamilton and the grime that builds up during winter. We had a customer with a Toyota Wish where the motor just packed it in after years of use.
It could also be the linkage, that’s the bit that connects the motor to the wiper arms. These can seize up or come loose, especially if your car’s taken a few knocks from potholes or curbs.
2. Wipers squeaking or smearing?
Honestly, heaps of drivers don’t realise wiper blades should be replaced every year or so. Seen plenty of Subarus and Honda Fits come in with blades that are basically just bare rubber flapping in the wind.
If the rubber’s cracked, hardened, or leaving streaks, time for a new set. Easy fix, but makes a big difference in rainy weather when visibility’s everything.
Also, clean your windscreen properly. That dusty summer build-up or pollen from the trees around Rototuna can turn your screen into a mess. Use proper glass cleaner, not just soapy water.
3. Wipers don’t turn off?
Now this one’s less common, but we’ve seen it a few times, usually in older imports like Nissan Tiidas or Mazda Atenzas. If your wipers won’t turn off, the issue’s often in the switch or the relay. Could be corrosion or a short in the wiring. Might need a bit of digging to sort it, but we can help with that as part of your regular car service in Hamilton.
4. One wiper moves, other one doesn’t?
This usually means something’s come loose in the linkage, or a nut holding the wiper arm’s stripped. Had a bloke with a Suzuki Swift come in just last week, wiper flapping around useless while the other did all the work. Quick tighten-up sorted him out.
5. Windshield washer not working?
Could be a blocked nozzle, empty reservoir, or the washer pump’s died. You see this a fair bit after the dry months, when dust and grime builds up. Also happens in hybrids like the Prius C where folks don’t top up fluids as often ‘cos the car “just works”. Still needs love though!
Need help with your wipers?
If your wipers are dodgy, it’s not just annoying, it’s a WOF fail. Don’t get caught out when the rain hits again or during your next WOF in Hamilton. Bring your car in and we’ll give it a proper once-over.
We’ve seen it all, from wiper arms snapped by overzealous ice scrapers, to full motor replacements. Whether you drive a Corolla, Outlander, Jazz, or something a bit different, we can help.
Swing by Grimmer Motors, we’ll get you sorted. Easy as.