What Causes Squeaky Wipers — The 3 Most Common Causes

Squeaky wipers are more than just an annoyance — they are often a warning sign that your wipers aren’t performing properly. Squeaky wipers are caused by worn wipers and dirty windshields (Hasbollah, 2023).

1. Worn Wipers

Worn or damaged wipers are the most common reason for squeaking. Over time, rubber blades harden, crack, or lose flexibility (Matador,2025) , creating friction against the glass. Hardened edges create friction instead of smooth contact.

• Cracks and splits in rubber cause uneven pressure on the windshield.
• Loss of elasticity prevents the blade from gliding properly.

Rubber wipers have a life span of 6-12 months, if you prefer to not change your wipers frequently, you can also consider Silicone Wipers as they are more durable, heat resistant, and ideal for Malaysia’s tropical weather. Silicone wipers provide silent wiping and long-lasting performance (LMEM, 2023).

2. Dirty Windshield

Dirty windshields can cause your wipers to squeak, even if the blades are new. Dust, oil, and debris create extra friction between the blade and glass (Kostyantyn, 2024) .

• Micro-abrasions on glass increase blade friction.
• Oil and grime reduce smooth wiping.
• Debris buildup causes intermittent skipping and squeaking.

Contaminants on the windshield can significantly reduce wiper effectiveness and driver visibility, especially during rain (Kirwan, 2017) . The contaminants consist of minerals such as calcium which could form as watermarks over time.

However the contaminants can be cleaned with oil removal as it ensures your windshield is free of dirt, oil, and grime to prevent friction and squeaks.

Conclusion

Squeaky wipers indicate that your wipers may need replacement or your windshield needs attention. A simple choice like upgrading to silicone wipers and cleaning your windshield regularly can make a huge difference. It ensures silent wiping and smoother windshield surface, giving you a clearer view and safer drive.