What are the reasons for the wiper not cleaning properly?
3 Answers
The reasons for the wiper not cleaning properly are: 1. Oil film on the glass; 2. Skipping occurs; 3. The wiper blade is aged or hardened; 4. Foreign objects are stuck between the wiper and the windshield; 5. The wiper arm angle is asymmetrical. The solutions for the wiper not cleaning properly are: 1. Clean the oily windshield with toothpaste; 2. Adjust the wiper arm with pliers; 3. Replace the wiper blade; 4. Remove foreign objects stuck between the wiper and the windshield; 5. Adjust the angle of the wiper arm. The steps for removing the wiper are: 1. Lift the wiper arm from the windshield; 2. Press the release lock pin and move the wiper along the wiper arm; 3. Remove the wiper for replacement.
After driving for a long time, I noticed that the wipers weren't cleaning properly, and the first thing that came to mind was the aging of the rubber blades. The rubber material of the wiper blades can harden and crack due to exposure to sunlight, extreme cold, or prolonged use, losing their fit against the glass. Especially during the high temperatures of summer, the windshield can reach 60-70 degrees Celsius, accelerating the aging of the rubber blades. Another hidden culprit is the oil film on the windshield, particularly for vehicles that frequently drive on highways. Exhaust fumes from preceding vehicles can adhere to the glass, forming an oil film that turns into a hazy mess when it rains. I personally use an oil film remover regularly and check if the wiper arms are deformed. Additionally, improper installation of the wipers can also affect performance; loose clips or incorrect models can cause deviations in the wiping angle. I recommend replacing the wiper blades before the rainy season starts, rather than waiting until they're completely worn out.
As an auto mechanic, I've seen too many cases where wipers don't clean properly. There are three common causes: rubber blade aging and hardening leading to water streaks; stubborn oil film formed by grease or tree sap on the windshield; and structural issues in the wiper system including failed wiper arm springs, deformed linkage, or loose mounting base. Once a car owner complained about persistent poor wiping, and upon inspection, I found it was caused by rusted and deformed wiper arms creating uneven pressure. Also, low-quality wiper blades might perform poorly right after installation, as inferior rubber material easily deforms. I recommend checking wiper brackets every six months. For cleaning the windshield, kitchen cleaner works well for removing oil film, but avoid applying it to the rubber blades.