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Wiper Linkage Replacement
Typical Cost: Low - Medium
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on part availability
What does a windscreen wiper linkage do?
The wiper linkage is what attaches the windscreen wiper motor to the wiper arms and blades.
How does the windscreen wiper linkage work and what are the components?
The wiper linkage is usually mounted onto the vehicle with bolts and brackets. The windscreen wiper motor is then mounted onto one of the arms or pivots of the linkage. As the windscreen wiper motor turns, the wiper linkage then moves accordingly in (generally) a scissor type action to move the wiper arms and blades back and forth across the screen.
It is usually a set of rods with cup and ball bearings that manoeuvre the wiper arms across the windscreen when the motor is running.
As the majority of the cup and ball links are made of plastic, these can become brittle or worn and simply pop out and no longer operate the links. Very rarely can they just be popped back in as they will simply come back out again!
Typical symptoms that require wiper linkage to be replaced.
- When you can hear the motor running but the arms are not moving
- If the wiper arms get stuck in various points on the windscreen
- When only one wiper arm moves
What happens during a windscreen wiper linkage replacement?
Changing a wiper linkage is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the windscreen wiper system.
- Carry out checks to determine the exact fault.
- Replace the windscreen wiper linkage if required.
- Advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
- Test the windscreen's wiper system to ensure it works correctly.
- Will make adjustments to the blade park position and swept area.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake pads to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the wiper linkage
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Wiper linkage replacement
Associated repairs
Front wiper motor replacement
Rear wiper motor replacement
Windscreen wiper blades (front - all) replacement
Wiper blade replacement - rear
Windscreen/wiper washer jet replacement (both)
Front washer motor replacement
Rear washer motor replacement
How much does it cost to have a wiper linkage replaced?
The cost of a wiper linkage replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can my wiper linkage be repaired rather than replaced?
Wiper linkages often come apart when the plastic ball and cup joint wears. The joint simply pops apart and of course, can be popped back in. However, the reason it came apart in the first place is because it was worn. It may stay in place short term, but as soon as any considerable pressure is put on the joint, it will inevitably come apart again.
There are clips that can be bought that will hold the ball in place in the cup, however these are a short term fix only.
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the wiper linkage doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.