How to temporarily fix windshield wipers?

When your windshield wipers stop working mid-drive, it feels like the world is against you. The road blurs. The tension builds. And visibility vanishes. But there’s always a temporary fix that buys you time and keeps your vehicle moving.

If your windshield wipers fail unexpectedly, you can use simple hacks like zip-ties, cleaning agents, or extra pressure to stay safe on the road—until a quality replacement like Runex beam or hybrid blades arrives.

I’ve spent years helping clients troubleshoot wiper issues during supply gaps, delivery delays, or sudden failures. I’ve learned that the difference between risk and resilience is often just a simple, smart stopgap. Let’s explore the most common questions—and practical fixes—related to faulty windshield wipers.

What to do if wipers stop working while driving?

When wipers suddenly stop during a rainstorm, panic is natural. Visibility can drop in seconds. You need to act fast. But not every fix requires a mechanic or spare part—just a bit of resourcefulness.

If your wipers stop mid-drive, park in a safe spot, manually lift the arms, and secure them with zip-ties or tape. This protects them and buys time until proper Runex wiper blades are installed.

Manual Locking with Zip-Ties or Tape

This is the first fix I advise drivers: manually raise the failed wiper and zip-tie¹ it in place. It reduces drag, avoids scratching the windshield, and allows partial visibility through the untouched side. Here’s why it works:

When This Fix Matters

I’ve seen delivery fleets stuck roadside in snowstorms, only to keep moving thanks to this 2-minute fix. While waiting for our high-performance Runex hybrid wipers, this hack kept windshields clear enough for essential driving.

How to fix intermittent windshield wipers?

Wipers that stop and start randomly aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous. They could be a sign of weak contact, buildup on blades, or electrical issues. Luckily, there are easy fixes that don’t require dismantling your car.

To fix intermittent wipers temporarily, clean the blades with rubbing alcohol, adjust blade tension, and check the fuse. These small actions improve contact and performance until you install durable Runex replacements.

Common Causes and Easy Fixes

One of my clients in Eastern Europe experienced this problem during peak winter. Their fleet wipers were streaking and skipping. We suggested this workflow:

1. Clean Blade Edge With Rubbing Alcohol

Built-up grime can cause uneven wiping. Alcohol removes grease and restores contact.

2. Add Tension With a Paperclip

A clever paperclip placed under the blade’s hinge³ can simulate added pressure. More contact = better wipe.

3. Check Fuse and Relay

Loose fuses or relays might cause electrical disruptions. Re-seating or replacing a fuse is a quick win.

Runex’s beam wipers⁴ are designed to apply uniform pressure along the blade, minimizing intermittent wiping in the first place. But until they arrive, these fixes can prevent safety risks.

Can you glue wiper blades?

Wiper blades tearing apart seems like a small issue—until it rains. Some drivers wonder if they can use glue to repair the rubber or secure a loose tip. The truth is: it’s not reliable, but it might help temporarily.

You can use rubber adhesive to secure minor blade tears temporarily, but glue is not a long-term fix. Replace damaged blades with Runex OEM-quality wipers as soon as possible.

What Glue Can—and Can’t—Do

✅ When It Might Work

• Minor tip separation
• Loose rubber flap detachment
• Emergency roadside stopgap

❌ When It Won’t Help

• Torn or cracked rubber body
• Bent metal arm
• Detached connector

I never recommend glue as a substitute for quality. But if your client is in the middle of a storm, stranded between cities, a drop of silicone adhesive⁵ might help them make it home safely.

That said, I always emphasize that Runex Auto wipers⁶—especially our beam-type models—feature bonded rubber with reinforced attachment points, eliminating the need for makeshift gluing.

How much do wiper arms cost?

Wiper arm replacement is more than a cosmetic upgrade—it restores blade pressure, wiping coverage, and connection. But how much does it cost? That depends on the material, brand, and whether it’s a beam, hybrid, or conventional model.

Wiper arms generally cost between $20 and $60 per unit, depending on vehicle model and build quality. Runex Auto offers OEM-compatible wiper arms at competitive wholesale rates, with options for customization.

Price Breakdown by Type

As a supplier, I’ve advised clients to compare not just the cost but the total cost of operation⁷:

• Beam arms last longer, resist winter wear, and apply uniform pressure.
• Hybrid models are a solid choice for fleets balancing budget and durability.
• Cheap plastic arms might crack during storms—costing more in the long run.

Runex Auto arms[^8Windshield wiper] are crafted for both resilience and efficiency. We offer full-package solutions for distributors who want durability without premium pricing.

Conclusion

Windshield wiper⁸ failure is never convenient, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous. With a few simple tricks—zip-ties, tension hacks, cleaning wipes, or even a paperclip—you can stay safe until high-quality replacements arrive. That’s where Runex Auto steps in. Our beam and hybrid wipers are built to handle harsh weather and deliver long-term clarity. Whether you're managing a fleet or supporting a retail client, temporary fixes bridge the gap—but quality solutions carry the journey forward.