Windscreen washers at key Melbourne intersections will be the focus of a police crackdown following recent public complaints and media stories.

The washers, who voluntarily clean drivers' windscreens, have been threatening motorists with abuse and hitting their cars when no payment has been made, said police.

Drivers should call triple-O if washers request payment, Senior Sergeant Ciaran Boyle of Richmond police told a media conference yesterday, while the washers themselves will be fined $70 and moved on.

Police will target the intersections of Swan Street and Punt Road in Richmond, and Hoddle and Victoria Streets in Richmond, he said, while the intersection of St Georges Road and Alexandra Parade in Fitzroy will also be targeted.

"We don't want people being too frightened to come in and drive through these intersections," said Senior Sergeant Boyle.