Wipers/Washers - Wiper Blade Information
12 WIPER BLADES - THE BASICSWhen presented with a complaint indicating worn or noisy windshield wipers, please keep the following checks in mind. First check the condition of the wiper's rubber inserts. They should not be cracked, split or torn. If damaged, the inserts must be replaced. In all cases the blade frame itself should be inspected to ensure that the pivot points move easily and that the frame is not bent or otherwise damaged. Wipers with physically damaged blade frames are not a matter for warranty. If the frame is in good shape, then only the rubber insert needs replacing. If the wiper and rubber inserts appear undamaged, check the wiper performance to determine if the blades are streaking, smearing or chattering as they go across the windshield.
The following information is supplied to assist in your understanding of the causes of wiper streaking and chattering complaints and should be considered a maintenance tip. If you notice any of these concerns, many times they are due to residue on the wipers, windshield, or both. To correct these concerns, start by cleaning the windshield and the wiper blades rubber inserts. Clean the windshield and the wiper inserts with a neutral non-abrasive cleaner, such as washer solvent using a sponge or soft cloth. Do not use petroleum products, thinner, or other solvents, as these will dry and damage the rubber and possibly the windshield. In terms of warranty handling if physical damage is not present and if cleaning would not resolve the concern, only the wiper's rubber inserts should require replacement. In the event that a direct replacement insert for the original equipment blade is not available from Subaru, the wiper blade assembly should be replaced with a Genuine Subaru replacement blade assembly (denoted by a part number beginning with SOA such as S0A591U218). Please see June 05 Tech Tips for specific information relating to 05 Legacy and Outback applications. The chart shown below contains a list of the available replacement wiper inserts and blade assemblies from SOA Parts. Please refer to www.subarunet.com > Fixed Operations> Price Book/CD Instructions> Price Book - Front Section > Wiper Blades and Refills for the latest chart.