After researching the cause and fix for the wiper slap on my 2000 outback, I've decided the cause is most likely worn bushings. The fix: non oem bushing kit, junk yard parts... Ok so here's my question, how about the aftermarket arm assembly for $28, wouldn't that fix the problem, and have less possible bushing problems?

In my experience aftermarket bushings don't fit correctly and are more of a pain to install.

 

What's wrong with getting an OEM linkage assembly?

Agree totally with Fairtax4me post just above.........

 

I had a similar problem with wipers on my 99 OBW, that got worse. The bushing plastic broke, so the wiper arm came off the wiper transmission arms. I tried using an after market bushing, but the bushing didn't fit right, and kept falling apart, causing the wiper arm to not move at all. I checked with the parts guy at local Subie dealership. They only sell the complete wiper transmission scissor arm mechanism, not individual replacement bushings. It seems once a bushing goes bad, as a component it is not something you can repair at all.

 

I finally replaced the entire wiper transmission arm mechanism. I bought a replacement unit from Rock Auto that works just fine. Dorfman is the brand name, I think.

 

My thought is that the bushing goes bad, as a result of the wiper blades freezing to the windshield glass with snow and ice in the winter. Once frozen, turning on the wipers can break the bushings, when the blades can't move. So, make sure your blades are freed up, when found frozen to the windshield to prevent bushing damage.

I've installed aftermarket generic bushings but it is cumbersome

i am just gonna throw this out there... this might be a case where 3d printing a 'designed to fit' item "might" be the answer.

3d printed nylon parts are rather strong and fairly durable if done right...

i'm not sure what you mean by an "aftermarket" arm. 

 

i've just installed the aftermarket bushings and that's done fine.  follow the tips online about heating them up or soap or things like that to make sure they install easily. 

So I have no idea where this thread started but I think I'm experiencing a similar thing on my 2008 wipers, both, in unison, can't seem to decide if they want to stop 2 inches up, all the way down, over the warmer... or if they want to wipe two inches from the pillar or want to jump off....  

So maybe the "transmission"??  

Was it easy to put in??  I guess on an 08 it would be different but not completely?  Would you rather find one aftermarket or junkyard?

Also, where could i find a how-to or a diagram of the order that things go on or off..