What Are the Reasons for Wipers Not Cleaning Properly?

[OGabriela]

Reasons for wipers not cleaning properly: 1. Wiper angle: The angle of the wiper can cause it to not clean properly, and this can usually be fixed by adjusting it. If the downward pressure of the wiper is too strong, it may cause uneven force distribution, in which case the distance between the springs should be relaxed. 2. Foreign objects on the wiper: When you hear a 'squeaking' noise while the wiper is operating, it is likely due to foreign objects caught between the wiper blade and the windshield, which can also cause the wiper to not clean properly. In this case, check for any foreign objects and remove them if present. It could also be due to the wiper blade being too rough, in which case sandpaper can be used to smooth it out. 3. Wiper hardening: Everything has its own lifespan, especially for vehicles frequently parked outdoors, which are inevitably exposed to sun and rain. Over time, this will accelerate the aging of the wiper rubber, reducing its cleaning effectiveness. In such cases, it is advisable to replace the wiper as soon as possible.

[StMaximus]

I also enjoy tinkering with cars, and it's quite common to encounter wiper blades that don't clean properly. The main issue is the aging of the rubber blades, which become hard and cracked due to exposure to sunlight and rain, preventing them from fitting tightly against the glass. Another major problem is the oil film on the windshield, especially for cars parked under trees, as tree sap and soot stick to the glass. If the wiper arm lacks sufficient pressure or the spring is deformed, the blade won't press firmly against the glass, leaving water streaks. Sometimes, the wiper size is incorrect or not properly installed. It's recommended to replace the rubber blades every six months and not forget to clean the contact surface of the wiper when cleaning the glass. Additionally, never force the wipers to scrape ice in winter; wait until the ice melts before using them.

[StMadeline]

Last time I drove to another city, it suddenly started pouring rain and the wipers couldn't clean properly, which really stressed me out. Later, an experienced mechanic told me that in such cases, it's usually 80% likely to be an issue with the rubber blades. Rubber is afraid of UV rays; if parked under the sun for too long, it hardens and cracks. Also, there's an oily film on the glass that regular car washing can't remove—you need a special oil film remover. The spring in the wiper arm can loosen over time, causing the rubber blade not to adhere tightly. When I got home, I tried cleaning the glass with toothpaste to remove the oil film first, and if that didn't work, I'd replace the wipers. Remember to check your wipers before rainy days, don't be caught off guard like I was.

[VanRemington]

If the wipers don't clean well, it's mostly due to hardened rubber blades or oily residue on the windshield. You can feel the glass yourself - if it's sticky, that's oil film. Deformed rubber blades are also visible; if the edges are cracked or curled, they need replacement. If the wiper arm is loose, gently lift it to check the rebound strength. Tiny scratches on the glass can also affect performance, in which case just changing the wipers won't help. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight when parking, and standing the wipers upright can extend their lifespan. Always use windshield washer fluid for lubrication before wiping - dry wiping damages the rubber. If all else fails, spend a bit to replace them - safety comes first.