The Hyundai Elantra N is celebrated for its sporty performance and sleek design. However, some owners have encountered a concerning issue: Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood. While this might seem like a minor annoyance, it can cause significant damage to the wipers, hood, or even the wiper motor if not addressed properly. This article explores the reasons behind this problem, the potential consequences, and effective solutions.
Why Do Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood?
If you’ve noticed that your Elantra N wipers hit hood, it’s important to understand the underlying causes before attempting a solution. Below are some of the most common reasons for this issue.
Misalignment of Wiper Arms
One of the primary causes of Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood is the misalignment of the wiper arms. The wiper arms are designed to move within a specific range, and any deviation from this can cause the wipers to rest too high or move too far during operation.
Misalignment can occur for various reasons, such as improper installation or accidental damage. If the wiper arms are removed for any repairs, or if they’ve been damaged due to external impact, the misalignment could result in the wipers coming into contact with the hood.
Worn or Damaged Wiper Blades
Another contributing factor to Elantra N wipers hit hood is worn or damaged wiper blades. Over time, wiper blades lose their flexibility and efficiency. As they wear down, they might not rest properly in their designated position, causing them to sit too high when parked. This increases the likelihood that the wiper blades will come into contact with the hood when in use.
Damaged wiper blades, such as those that have been bent or have accumulated debris, can also disrupt the proper functioning of the wipers, contributing to the issue of Elantra N wipers hit hood.
Incorrect Wiper Blade Size
If you recently replaced the wiper blades on your Elantra N, you might be using blades that are too large for the vehicle’s specifications. Wiper blades that are too long or too wide can interfere with the proper resting position, leading to Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood.
It is crucial to use the correct blade size to ensure proper wiper operation. Using blades that exceed the recommended length will only exacerbate the issue and cause unnecessary wear on the wiper components.
Faulty Wiper Motor or Linkage
A malfunctioning wiper motor or linkage can also cause Elantra N wipers hit hood. The wiper motor controls the movement of the wipers, and if it’s not functioning properly, the wiper arms might not rest in their intended position. Similarly, if the wiper linkage—the system that connects the motor to the wipers—is damaged or misaligned, it can lead to the wipers traveling too far up the windshield, resulting in contact with the hood.
In this case, addressing the motor or linkage issue is essential to fixing the problem.
Recent Repairs or Windshield Replacement
If you’ve recently had your windshield replaced or repairs were performed on the wipers, the Elantra N wipers hit hood problem might be related to improper reinstallation. During the repair process, the wiper arms might not have been reattached correctly or positioned at the right height.
In some cases, the windshield itself may not have been seated properly during installation, which can also cause the wiper blades to sit too high. These types of issues often require professional attention to correct the installation and realign the wipers.
Solutions for Fixing Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood
Once you’ve identified the root cause of the Elantra N wipers hit hood problem, it’s time to take action. Fortunately, most of these issues are relatively simple to fix. Below are some practical solutions to address the issue and restore proper wiper operation.
Re-align the Wiper Arms
If the issue is related to misalignment, re-aligning the wiper arms is the most effective solution. Properly aligned wiper arms will ensure that the wipers move smoothly and rest in the correct position when not in use.
To realign the wiper arms:
- Lift the wiper arms off the windshield and use a wrench to loosen the nut securing them in place.
- Carefully adjust the arms to the correct position. Ensure that the wipers rest low enough to avoid contact with the hood.
- Tighten the nuts to secure the arms once you’ve positioned them correctly.
This simple adjustment can often resolve the Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood issue if misalignment is the cause.
Replace Worn or Damaged Wiper Blades
If the wiper blades are old or damaged, replacing them should be your next step. Worn-out wiper blades can cause the wipers to sit improperly, leading to the Elantra N wipers hit hood problem.
When purchasing new wiper blades, make sure they are the correct size for your vehicle. You can check the manufacturer’s recommendations in your car’s manual or consult with an auto parts professional to ensure the proper fit.
To replace the wiper blades:
- Lift the wiper arms away from the windshield.
- Press the release tab on the old blades and remove them.
- Install the new blades, ensuring that they are securely attached to the wiper arms.
Once installed, test the wipers to ensure they operate smoothly without contacting the hood.
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Use Correctly Sized Wiper Blades
If the issue started after you replaced your wiper blades, double-check their size. Using oversized blades is a common reason for Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood. Ensure you’ve installed blades that match the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle.
If you’re unsure about the proper size, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask an auto parts expert. Installing the correct blade size will help restore the wiper arms to their proper resting position and eliminate the issue.
Inspect the Wiper Motor and Linkage
If the wipers are still making contact with the hood after adjusting the wiper arms and replacing the blades, the problem could be with the wiper motor or linkage. A malfunctioning wiper motor may cause the wipers to move erratically or stop at the wrong position.
A mechanic can inspect the motor and linkage, checking for damage or wear. If necessary, the motor may need to be replaced, or the linkage may require adjustment to prevent the wipers from traveling too far up the windshield.
Verify Proper Installation After Repairs
If the issue of Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood arose after a windshield replacement or repair work, it’s possible that the wiper arms were not reinstalled correctly. In this case, take your car back to the service provider and have the wipers realigned. A professional will be able to ensure the wipers are positioned correctly and operating smoothly.
Address Windshield Misalignment
Windshield misalignment is a less common cause but still a possibility. If the windshield was recently replaced and the wipers are hitting the hood, the windshield may not be seated correctly in the vehicle’s frame. This could cause the wiper blades to rest too high.
Have a professional mechanic inspect the windshield and ensure it is properly aligned. If there is an issue, they can adjust the windshield to restore proper wiper operation.
Conclusion
The issue of Elantra N Wipers Hit the Hood may seem trivial at first, but it can lead to significant damage over time if not addressed. Misalignment, worn wiper blades, incorrect blade size, and mechanical failures are some of the most common causes. Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed with simple adjustments or replacements.
To prevent future occurrences of Elantra N wipers hit hood, always ensure that the wiper components are properly aligned, that you use the correct size blades, and that the wiper motor and linkage are functioning as they should. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs will help keep your Hyundai Elantra N’s wipers working efficiently and protect the integrity of your vehicle.
By identifying the cause and applying the appropriate solutions, you can ensure that your wipers remain in good condition and avoid any further damage to your vehicle’s bodywork. Keep your wipers functioning properly, and enjoy a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead.