In the process of replacing the wiper blades, the driver's side wiper arm now refuses to operate. It manages a few inches but that's it. There's plenty of play in the arm. In the other cars I've fiddled with, there's a washer that is part of the assembly. If it breaks or cracks the arm no longer operates. I'm not sure if this is still true with the Subaru's.

 

My question is - is it something I can get to and fix myself (purchasing parts) or it something that is going to need to be taken care of by a mechanic? I'd love to do it myself just so I learn something new.

 

Also, if it is something I can do myself, what all is involved and is it a fairly easy task?

 

Any help or suggestion would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance

~Aries

Hi Aries. What kind of Sube? Is it the front or rear (if equipped) wipers? Does it seem like the motor is working properly?

 

As far as doing it yourself, It's fairly easy to replace the arm. If you have a Haynes book, it details the process of removing the wiper arm (if you think that's the problem).

 

You just pry off the cover at the base of the arm to expose the nut holding it in place. I guess it wouldn't be a bad idea to take it apart and see if you can determine what's keeping it from moving all the way.

 

I'll bet you get a ton of help on this board. Sounds like you've got one of those "do-it-yourself" problems if you're up to it.

 

- Ed

My daughter's 93 Legacy had the same issue on the drivers side. We had just had freezing rain and the nut under the the end cap had come loose causing it to sorta strip out due to being stuck to the windshield. This is what I have done to temporary repair this, pop the hood open, look at the base of the wiper arm, pop out little nut plug. I think it takes a 10 or 12mm wrench, try tightening up the nut, wet windshield good and give it a try. The inside mounting point of wiper arm is knurled to mount to the stud, the arm may be stripped (my daughter's is) but will probably still work. hope this helps you

Wonderful! I'm willing to try anything just so we can be prepared for the next rainfall (being Seattle...that should be in about 10 minutes ;-) Thank you kindly!