If you’ve noticed your Hyundai Elantra N’s wipers hitting the hood every time they are used, you’re not the only one. Many car owners have been confused by this issue, which can be annoying and worrying. Fortunately, this time-tested problem is less esoteric than it might initially appear and is easily resolvable fairly quickly in more than 80 percent of cases.
This blog will explain why it causes problems, how it affects your vehicle, and how to fix it. In the end, you’ll definitively know why so that your Elantra N will be in order.
What Causes Elantra N Wipers to Hit the Hood?
Several factors may lead to your Elantra N wipers contacting the hood. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward fixing the issue. Here are some common reasons:
1. Misaligned Wiper Arms
The most frequent cause of this problem is misalignment of the wiper arms. Since the wipers may not return to their original position, they could end up too low or at the wrong angle.
This can happen due to:
- Improper installation of the wiper arms.
- Accidental movement or adjustment of the arms.
- Long-term wear and tear that affects alignment.
2. Loose or Worn-Out Wiper Mechanism
The wiper mechanism itself can loosen over time. Degraded components, such as the wiper arm pivot or the wiper motor, may admit a range of motion outside the limits for which they were intended. This permits the wipers to reach further than they should and hit the hood.
3. Incorrect Size of Wiper Blades
Sometimes, the length of the wiper blades can also play a part. But if you’ve swapped your wiper blades for too long, they could get in the way of the hood — during use. In Elantra N, use the manufacturer-recommended size for the wheel blade.
4. Design Quirks of the Elantra N
Some owners say this issue is built into the Elantra N’s design. The placement of the wiper arms or how the hood curves relative to the windshield at a particular angle might account for it.
Hyundai isn’t likely to label this a design flaw, but Elantra N drivers have complained anecdotally.
How Does This Issue Impact Your Vehicle?
Wiper blades lightly tapping the hood isn’t a big deal, but this problem can have severe consequences over time. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore it:
- Paint Damage: They can chip off the paint over time, leaving scratches and raw metal to chip. If neglected, this can rust, so it is essential to stop it.
- Wiper Damage: They may wear out their wiper blades and arms faster and the wiper arms more quickly.
- Hood Deformation: While the impact itself is no big deal, a longer-duration impact could dent or deform the hood, causing cosmetic damage that might require expensive repairs.
- Driver Safety Concerns: If your wipers become faulty while driving in a downpour, your view will be significantly reduced, and your safety will be at risk.
If these problems are addressed sooner rather than later, they may prevent them from occurring and keep your car performing like new and looking good.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Fixing the Issue
Now that you know the potential causes, here’s a structured guide to fixing the problem.
Step 1: Inspect the Wiper Arms
- Please turn off the ignition and ensure the wipers are resting.
- Check if the wiper arms are loose or appear misaligned.
- If the arms look off-center, lift them carefully and realign them to their correct position. Ensure they sit just above the base of the windshield.
Step 2: Tighten the Wiper Arm Screws
- Locate the screws or nuts securing the wiper arms to the pivot.
- Use a wrench or socket tool to tighten them. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the assembly.
Step 3: Check Wiper Blade Size
- To confirm the correct wiper blade size for your Elantra N, refer to your owner’s manual or consult Hyundai’s specifications.
- If your blades are more extended than recommended, replace them with the correct size.
Step 4: Inspect the Wiper Motor Mechanism
- Open the hood of your car and locate the wiper motor mechanism.
- Check for any loosened or worn-out components and tighten or replace them. If you’re unfamiliar with these parts, consult a professional mechanic.
Step 5: Test the Wiper Operation
- Please turn on your wipers and observe their motion closely. If they no longer touch the hood, you’ve successfully resolved the problem.
- If the issue persists, it might be due to a deeper mechanical problem, which a Hyundai service center should address.
Step 6: File a Report with Hyundai (Optional)
- If you believe the issue stems from a design flaw, report it directly to Hyundai. If enough owners report the same problem, the company could address it in future models or issue technical guidance to resolve it.
Preventing the Issue in the Future
Prevention is just as important as the fix. Here’s how you can avoid facing the same problem again:
- Regularly inspect your wiper arms and blades for wear and tear.
- Ensure proper installation when replacing wiper blades.
- Avoid using the wipers to clear heavy snow or ice, which can strain the wiper mechanism.
- Periodically check the tightness of the wiper arms during routine car maintenance.
- Use Hyundai-certified replacement parts to ensure compatibility with your Elantra N.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the steps above and your wipers still hit the hood, it’s time to involve a professional. A licensed mechanic or your local Hyundai service center can:
- Diagnose and repair mechanical failures in the wiper motor assembly.
- Ensure the alignment of the wiper arms and blades is flawless.
- Provide replacement parts that meet Hyundai’s standards.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance—your safety comes first.
Keep Your Elantra N in Peak Condition
Your Hyundai Elantra N deserves care and attention to ensure it remains in excellent working order. Wiper blades may seem minor, but addressing issues like hood interference early can save you from significant damage and costs down the road.
Following the troubleshooting steps in this guide can quickly and confidently resolve the issue. If you need further assistance, visit your nearest Hyundai service center for expert help.
Let’s keep your Elantra N smooth, stylish, and running as it should—rain or shine.
