2007 Honda CR-V Wiper arms seize in snow

OIK520

MEMBER
2007 HONDA CRV

I recently purchased a 2007 Honda CR-V and I live in Chicago where we often get significant snowfall. As my wipers move, they compact snowfall into the gap between the windshield wiper arm and the windshield, as well as around the joint for the windshield wiper arm.

After about 20 minutes of driving in the snow, even with defrost on full blast, the windshield wipers seize from the ice buildup due to the compacted snow/ice in the joint. Even if I turn the wipers on full tilt, the servo motor is no match for the compacted snow/ice buildup. I have to get out of the car and remove it by hand and wait another 20 minutes for it to seize again.

Are there any aftermarket products I can get to cover the wiper arm joint and the gap between the wiper arm and the windshield so that no snow can get in there?

Thanks for your time and help.

1 Reply

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,753 POSTS

There are aftermarket wiper arm covers available. I am on a research panel and we are addressing the issue of snow build up on snow plows. There are wiper covers but the main issue that you have is a design flaw by Honda. There are a couple of approaches we are taking with the plows. One is to address the solvent in the washer fluid to melt snow away better. Another way is to increase the size of the blades. Another is to cover the arm with a rubber sleeve. Many trucks are now coming with the wiper pivoting from the top of the windshield to avoid the build up you are talking about. Another solution is heated windows themselves.

Have you tried to talk to an intelligent person at Honda and one who really cares? I doubt there is an aftermarket product available on those to stop the snow buildup. I suggest you be a pain in their butt and express your concerns.