4th gen rear wiper issues

[t4rmax]

I have a 2006 SE, rear wiper works, but recently the wiper blade only makes contact the first half of the arc, then lifts off the rear windshield altogther. The blade seems ok (no cracks in rubber), wondering if its a problem with the arm? Is there an easy fix or an easy way to diagnose the problem?

Thanks

Max

 

[Asmara]

I have a 2006 SE, rear wiper works, but recently the wiper blade only makes contact the first half of the arc, then lifts off the rear windshield altogther. The blade seems ok (no cracks in rubber), wondering if its a problem with the arm? Is there an easy fix or an easy way to diagnose the problem?

Thanks

Max

Typically something fails where the arm and tension spring are connected. I just replaced the arm recently and the problem was fixed.

Note if you replace the arm you need a gear puller. If you just try to yank if off, you'll break something inside the gate. Do a search in the forum and you'll see a couple of stories.

 

[sonerick]

I had the same problem and fixed it by replacing the whole blade assembly (as opposed to just the $2 rubber insert). I think it cost me $11 or so from the dealership.

If that does not work I would recommend replacing the whole arm as Asmara recommended above.

 

[aaronfro17]

I replaced the rear wiper arm and it still didn't fix the problem. I give up.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

Did you replace the entire arm and blade assembly? If so that's rather an odd issue, perhaps the motor shaft has become tweaked?

 

[aaronfro17]

Yes, the entire wiper arm assembly. That was my suspicion, but it does not bother me enough to troubleshoot it anymore. The rear wiper blade is just short of useless best I can tell. At least for me as long as the rear window is relatively clean rain seems to run off on its own pretty well, maybe the rear spoiler helps?

 

[Asmara]

Yes, the entire wiper arm assembly. That was my suspicion, but it does not bother me enough to troubleshoot it anymore. The rear wiper blade is just short of useless best I can tell. At least for me as long as the rear window is relatively clean rain seems to run off on its own pretty well, maybe the rear spoiler helps?

I'd check to make sure you put the arm on tight enough. Although it looks like it has a spline, it actually just presses on. Torque should be 49 inch pounds.

 

[aaronfro17]

Yeah I torqued per spec, I'm leaning toward an out of line motor. If I get really excited, I may try to tighten the spring, ya know a little bit of Appalachian Engineeing!