How to Attach Rain Sensor to Windshield
A rain sensor can be a valuable addition to your car, as it will automatically turn on the windshield wipers when it starts raining. If you’re a driver in a climate that experiences rain often, it may be worth your time to attach a rain sensor to your windshield. This small device can save you time and money while keeping you safe.
This guide will show you how to attach rain sensor to windshield. There are two main types of sensors that mount on the inside of the windshield and those that mount on the outside so make sure you choose the right type for your car. The installation process is relatively simple and should only take a few minutes.
What Is a Rain Sensor?
A rain sensor is a device that automatically turns on windshield wipers when it detects rainfall. Most modern vehicles are equipped with either an automatic or manual method for switching between the vehicle’s headlamps. Many cars and trucks come with auto lamp systems, while others require drivers to switch between bright and dim manually. Rain-sensing wipers add a measure of convenience for the driver, improving visibility at night.
8 Easy Methods on How to Attach Rain Sensor to Windshield
1. Use 3M Adhesive:
Rain sensor windshield mount is stackable with 3M adhesive. This method of attaching the rain sensor to your windshield will result in a damage-free application. You can stick the rain sensor to the windshield and get started. The downside, however, is that you can’t easily detach it from your windshield afterward, so if there are any changes needed on the windshield, the rain sensor needs to be removed.
2. Use Suction Cup:
You can attach the rain sensor to your windshield with the suction cup, resulting in a damage-free application. However, you might not be able to detach it once you are done, so if there are any changes needed on the windshield, the rain sensor needs to be removed.
3. Double-sided tape:
To attach your rain sensor in the middle of your windshield, use double-sided tape. Make sure not to cover any airbags (if your car has them), then fold back about an inch and a half of the adhesive at a 90-degree angle to create a tab. This method is much easier to detach than using 3M adhesive.
4. Hook and Loop Fastener:
A hook and loop fastener helps you attach the rain sensor to your windshield easily. You just need to put some of the fastener on both sides of the hook and loop tape. Then, peel back an inch and a half from the center, fold it over on itself, and stick it to your windshield. Make sure not to cover up any airbags on your car, then attach the rain sensor. The hook and loop fastener is much easier to use than the 3M adhesive and can be detached more easily after using it.
5. Use Car Mount Holder:
First of all, mount the holder on your windshield’s dashboard near your car vents. Now attach the rain sensor to it, insert your device into the holder, close it properly so that it fits securely, and you are good to go. This method is quick and easy but not very secure because it lacks adhesive strength between your dash and the mount itself.
6. Use Velcro Strips:
To secure your rain sensor holder, attach velcro strips near your car vents and secure them with strong adhesive tape. This method is quick and easy, but not very secure because it lacks adhesive strength between your windshield and the mount itself.
7. Drill and Attach Wire:
Use this method of attaching your rain sensor to your windshield if you cannot do it with the methods mentioned above. Drill two holes on the sides of your windshield, push in a wire through each hole, and use a wire fastener to bind them together securely. Then attach the holder onto the Wire using some adhesive tape or any other means that you have. This method is quick and enables your rain detector to be installed firmly on your windshield.
8. Use Sun Roof Holder:
You can use the sunroof holder to attach your rain sensor. Just place it on the windshield near the edge of the sunroof opening, secure it with 3M adhesive tape, and you are ready to go. This method is quick and enables your rain detector to be installed firmly on your windshield.
Some Tips and Suggestions
Here are some tips and suggestions on how to attach rain sensors to windshields.
1. Make sure the sensor is placed on a glass area with uniform curvature.
2. To reduce condensation, place the sensor in the shade and avoid sudden temperature changes between night and day, which can trigger condensation under certain conditions.
3. The glass may be treated for ease of cleaning, but avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
4. If the water condensation does not disappear after two to three weeks, wipe off any residual deposits on the sensor with a moist cloth or paper towel, then leave it to dry for 24 hours before continuing to use.
5. Avoid using abrasive products or chemicals that may damage the sensor.
6. Do not let water enter the sensor, which may occur when it rains or when washing the windshield.
7. After prolonged use in extreme weather conditions, do not remove the sensor from your windshield without first shutting down! You can protect yourself by using window film on your vehicle’s windshield.
How Does Rain Sensor in Windshield Work?
Rain sensor, also referred to as rain sensor windshield wiper is an innovative automotive technology that detects rainfall and automatically activates the wipers. Usually, there are two types of sensors: infrared and ultrasonic. The infrared (IR) type uses a pair of IR sensors mounted on either side of the interior rearview mirror that faces upward.
When the system detects the presence of water on the windshield, it activates wipers. The ultrasonic type uses a single sensor mounted at the vehicle’s front windshield center. It emits sound waves directed at the windshield glass. When that glass is wet, the echo system redirects the sound back to the receiving unit, sending a signal to activate wiper blades.
How Does My Windshield Know It’s Raining?
Windshield wipers are made up of two rubber blades that wipe the water away from your field of vision when they come into contact with it. Where the rubber hits the windshield, a little arm usually holds the blade in place. The arms are spring-loaded so that when you turn on your wipers, the force of the water alone is enough to move the wipers across the windshield.
What Sticks the Rain Sensor to the Windshield?
The rain sensor attaches to the windshield with either suction cups or double-sided adhesive tape found at most automotive stores. Some models may use a twist lock instead of suction cups. The sensor will also need to be connected to the vehicle’s electrical system by connecting it directly to your fuse box via the included wire harness and connecting it directly to the car’s electrical system via hooking it up through an OBD port.
Suction cups tend to work better with an adhesive sticker because suction cups can fall off the windshield while going down the road. However, with a sticker, you lose a little bit of visibility out of your peripheral vision. If you use a suction cup with a twist lock, there is no need for a separate sticky pad to stick it to the windshield.
Can Rain Sensing Wipers Be Added?
If you want to put rain-sensing wipers onto your car, whether a new vehicle purchase or an old one, the process is very simple. The first thing you want to do is make sure your windshield has a spot for the rain sensor.
Most modern vehicles have a nice, round hole on the passenger side of the windshield that is just waiting to be used by a rain-sensing wiper or a camera! That being said, some cars have sensors placed in odd places such as behind the rearview mirror, on the headliner, or even under the dash. But, again, you should consult your car’s manual if that is the case to get instructions for installation.
Conclusion
You can get more miles out of your wiper blades with the rain sensor attached. You’ll also be able to tell when it’s time for a new set so that they don’t wear past their effectiveness and need replacement.
And finally, if you’re using this in conjunction with an auto-wipers system such as Rain-X or Aquapel, these sensors will help minimize annoying squeaks and squeals from worn rubber parts on the windshield wipers themselves. We hope this article has helped you learn more about how to attach rain sensors to windshields. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us, and we will be happy to help!
