Back Windshield Wiper Hanging Down – What's Wrong?

A back windshield wiper helps you get a good view of what is behind you when it is rainy, snowy, misty, or foggy. You might be driving in conditions in which the visibility is poor and you need to know that it is safe to overtake, turn or maneuver the car. However, the back windshield wiper may have a fault, hindering you from making the back window clear.

You may have realized that the back window shield is not functioning as it should. In this case, it may be that the situation is characterized by the back windshield wiper hanging down - what's wrong? Read on as we answer this question, highlighting the common issues that cause a back windshield wiper to hang down and how to get them fixed.

Back Windshield Wiper Hanging Down

A back windshield wiper hanging down is an issue that needs to be addressed as soon as it is noticed. However, you will be able to know what's wrong by getting a proper diagnosis of the issue and then be able to take steps to fix it. Depending on the issue, you might need a simple fix or you might have to take it to a professional for service.

Common Issues that Cause a Back Windshield Wiper to Hang Down

There are various parts that work to make the back windshield wiper mechanism function. A fault in any of them may bring some issues. The following are some of the most common reasons why a back windshield wiper may be hanging down:

1) Faulty Wiper Motor

In the wiper mechanism, the motor provides the power to move the wiper arm. When the wiper motor fails to function, it will not generate the power needed for smooth wiper arm movements. This results in the back windshield wiper arm not functioning effectively and hanging down.

2) Loose Wiper Arm

This is the most common issue that causes the back windshield wiper to hang down. When the wiper arm is not securely attached, it will not have proper contact with the rear window surface. It will hang down and not be able to wipe the rear screen efficiently.

3) Worn Out Plastic Cover

The plastic cover is the protective part of the wiper, and it also functions to hold the wiper in place. Due to wear and tear, the plastic part on the back windshield wiper may get damaged. When it is not in good condition, it will then fall out of place and hang down, while also getting stuck in place.

4) Worn Out Wiper Blades

While the blades for wipers are designed to be durable, wear and tear happens over time as they get exposed to extreme weather conditions. When this happens, they will not have a good grip on the rear window and hang down, while also not functioning effectively. 

5) Faulty Lift Gate Mechanism

The wiper arm is usually held in place by the lift gate mechanism. A broken lift gate mechanism causes the back windshield wiper to hang down. To fix this issue, detailed and expert repair services are needed.

6) Other Wiper System Faults

All the wiper system parts function to make the wiper movements effective and smooth. In case any of the parts such as pivots or connectors get spoilt, there will be issues that cause the back windshield wiper to hang down.

Back Windshield Wiper Diagnosis

To get the diagnosis for a back windshield wiper hanging down, you will have to do some inspection. The following are the steps that you can take to narrow down the issue:

1) Inspect the Wiper Arm and Plastic Cover

To get started, examine the wiper arm and its plastic cover. During this inspection, you are checking for any signs of damage, detachment, or misalignment. If there are any loose screws or nuts, tighten them.

2) Inspect the Motor Shaft and the Rear Window

You should assess the condition of the rear window and the motor shaft. Check if there are any scratches or damage that affect the wiper's efficiency and movement. Before you proceed, it is best to clean or repair the rear window if you find that it is dirty or damaged.

3) Check the Splined Shaft on the Lift Gate

The next place to check is the splined shaft, which is on the liftgate that connects to the wiper arm. A broken or damaged splined shaft can cause a back windshield wiper to hang down the issue. If this is detected to be causing the issue, you will need to get an expert's assistance.

4) Identify Damaged Wiper System Parts

As the back windshield wiper mechanism is made up of various parts, you need to do a careful inspection of all components. Examine the wiper system parts, including the pivots, connectors, and linkages, checking for any malfunctioning, wear and tear. Do replacements where need be.

Dangers of Driving With a Back Windshield Wiper Hanging Down

It is not safe for you to drive with a back windshield wiper hanging down. The following are some of the reasons why:

• Poor visibility.
• Obstruction.
• Possible scratching of the rear window.

To avoid the hazard that a back windshield wiper hanging down may bring about, it is best that you routinely check the condition of the back windshield wiper system. You should clean, replace, or repair the parts when necessary.

How to Fix a Back Windshield Wiper Hanging Down Issue

Depending on the issue that causes the back windshield wiper to hang down, you can do a quick fix or seek the services of an expert. The following are some of the ways in which you can handle a back windshield wiper hanging down issue:

1) Broken Wiper Arm or Stalk Replacement

When a wiper arm or stalk is damaged beyond repair, it will have to be removed and replaced with a new one. This is done by removing the arm from the mount. You shall then securely position a new one.

2) Position Adjustment of the Wiper Arm Assembly

When inspecting the wiper arm, you may note that it is not in position. To place it correctly, If the wiper arm is misaligned, move the arm to the correct angle gently. Then, secure it in place by tightening the screws.

3) Replacing Wiper Arm Parts of Different Car Models

It is best that you replace the wiper arm parts while following the manufacturer's recommendations. Car models manufactured in the years 1999-2003 have aluminum wiper arms and blades. When they get spoilt, it is best to replace them with newer, more durable wiper system parts.

When the wiper motor is faulty, do replace it with a newer one and seek assistance from an expert. This will enable the wiper system to receive enough power to function. To ensure that you get smooth and effective wiper movements and to fix a back windshield wiper hanging down issue, replace and repair the parts after the issue is detected.

Maintaining the Back Windshield Wiper

To avoid inconveniences and possible damage, it is best to maintain the back windshield wiper. Some routine checks here and there help in assessing the back wiper system condition and detecting any issues before they get worse. This can be done by doing the following:

• Periodically checking the position of the back windshield wiper. You can check if it is moving and functioning as it should be. It should be able to make smooth moves/ wipes across the window and return to the park position when it is switched off.
• Regularly inspect the back windshield wiper. When doing this, check for any dirt and debris, and leaves. Wipe them off and ensure it is clean enough for the wiper to make smooth movements.
• During the winter season, you can prevent the back windshield wiper from hanging down the issue by regularly clearing snow from the rear window. By removing the excess weight and pressure on the back windshield wiper, you can avoid it getting spoilt and damage to the rear window.
• Replace the back windshield wiper when need be. As soon as it starts to have some wear and tear, it is best to replace it with a new one.

It is recommended that you replace the back windshield wiper blades every 6 months to 1 year. However, if you notice that they are functioning in a less efficient manner, it is best to have them replaced.

Conclusion

When driving, visibility from all angles helps you to stay alert, stay safe and make the right moves. It is also important that you have good visibility through the rear window, especially during poor weather conditions. It is best to get a back windshield wiper hanging down fixed as soon as you detect that there is an issue.

There are issues that can be dealt with quick fixes while others may require that you get a professional to help you. Maintenance of the back windshield wiper also helps in avoiding inconveniences and possible risks that you may encounter when the wiper is faulty. By having this information, you will be able to detect the common issues that cause a back windshield wiper to hang down and how to fix the issue.