Wipers/Washers - Windshield Wipers Streak/Smear/Noisy
64 08 152010212/8
December 5, 2008.
Supersedes Technical Service Bulletin Group 64 number 08-04 dated July 22, 2008 for reasons listed below.
Affected Vehicles
92 Windshield wipers streak, smear or are noisy
Condition
Customer complains that wipers are ineffective. Complaints may include that the wipers:
- Streak or smear.
- Do not clear across entire length of blade.
- Chatter, skip or are noisy as wiper travels across windshield glass.
Technical Background
There are a few fundamental causes for each of the above complaints that lead to needless replacement of wiper blades.
The most common causes for streaking wipers are:
- Dirty windshield or wax and polish residue left from a car wash.
- Dirty wiper blades or wiper blades that are contaminated with wax and polish residue left from a car wash.
- Use of water repellent or nano coating products on the windshield.
- Wiper blades that are worn.
If addressed, the wiper operation is significantly improved, as is the longevity of the wiper blades.
Production Solution
Not applicable.
Service
1. Windshield cleaning, wiper blade cleaning and proper windshield washer solvent use:
Waxes (particularly those applied by car washes) and industrial fallout can leave a residue on the windshield and wipers that affects wiping efficiency. After a visit to a car wash, the traces of wax and polish can be conveniently removed using a wet and dry window cleaning cloth, part number G 052 522 A1. This cloth is also effective for removing fallout from the contact surface of the wiper blade.
It is also important that an effective windshield washer solvent be added to the reservoir. The following is recommended:
- For the summer season in particular, use Windshield Cleaner Concentrate part number G 052 184 A2
- For year-round, use Windshield Cleaner Concentrate with antifreeze part number G 052 164 M2 mixed to the proper ratio (1 part concentrate to 2 parts water for temperatures below minus 18 degrees C or 0 degrees F or 1 part concentrate to 4 parts water for temperatures above minus 18 degrees C or 0 degrees F) is recommended.
- For the winter season, a mixture of these two solvents will be effective.
Tip: Explain the importance of cleaning the windshield and wiper blades to the customer. Cleaning the windshield and wiper blades is truly the most effective way to restore the wiping efficiency and prolong the life of the wiper blades. Cleaning of industrial fallout and various films on wiper components and the windshield is not covered under warranty. Replacing wiper blades due to residue on the wiper blade contact surface and glass surfaces is not a warranty issue. New wiper blades will only solve the problem temporarily.
2. Nano coatings:
Nano coatings applied to the windshield prevent even distribution of water on the glass surface. The absence of the lubricating properties of water on the windshield accelerates the wear of the wiper blades. Once applied, nano coatings cannot be completely removed from the glass surface. Even over time, traces of the coating can lead to a smearing appearance.
Tip: Replacing front or rear windshields that have been treated with a nano coating to correct any wiping issue that results from this coating is not covered under warranty.
3. Wiper blade condition:
Inspect the wiper blade. If the rubber portion is torn or if the contact surface is nicked, the wiper will have to be replaced.
Before replacing the wiper blades, carefully inspect the windshield glass for chips, scratches or industrial fallout and any damage noted on the repair order. Stone chips or scratches in the windshield drastically impair the wiping quality and will damage the wiper very quickly. Consult with the customer and schedule a repair or replacement of the windshield glass before replacing wiper blades.
Replacement of the wiper blades under warranty is only approved within the defined warranty and mileage period. Wiper blades replaced must show evidence of damage not caused by outside influence. Please remind the customer that they should replace their wiper blades twice a year as a matter of maintenance.
Tip: Stone chips, scratches, cracks and industrial fallout due to outside influence are not a warranty issue.
Warranty
Tips:
- If any of the issues specified in this TSB are exhibited, replacement of the wiper blades or windshield glass will not permanently correct a problem with wiping quality. Any improvement in the wiping quality after replacement of the wiper blades or glass will only be temporary.
- Unsubstantiated and unnecessary claims for replacement of wiper components and/or glass may be denied.
Per the Audi Warranty Policy & Procedure Manual, coverage for wiper blades are as follows:
SAGA
Claim Type: Within 6/6: 110
After 6/6: 1AM
- Replacement components may be requested for submission to the Warranty Test Center and will be evaluated.
- It is the Dealership's responsibility to properly package parts requested by the Warranty Test Center so as not to create additional damage during shipment.
Required Parts and Tools
Additional Information
All parts and service references provided in this TSB are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Department and service manuals for the latest information.