Which statement about windshield wiper chatter is true?

• A. Worn blades can contribute to chatter
• B. Improper position is a common cause of chatter
• C. Damaged wiper motor is never related to chatter
• D. Weather conditions never affect chatter

Answer: (B)

Windshield wiper chatter happens when the blade can’t glide smoothly across the glass, often because it isn’t positioned correctly on the arm or on the windshield. If the blade is not in the proper park position or is misaligned, the edge can catch or flex unevenly as the arm sweeps, causing a rapid vibration or “chatter.” This is a common, fixable issue, so adjusting the blade to the correct position and ensuring proper mounting usually resolves it.

Worn blades can contribute to poor wiping performance, and in some cases that wear can lead to chatter, but the most frequent, straightforward cause you’ll encounter is improper position. A damaged wiper motor can produce other symptoms such as inconsistent speed or failure to move, rather than a simple chatter pattern. Weather conditions can also affect how the blade contacts the glass, so extreme ice, dirt, or heavy rain can influence chatter as well. If chatter persists after correcting position, inspect blade wear and arm condition and replace as needed.