What Causes Windshield Wipers to Not Clean Properly?
2 Answers
The reasons why the windshield wipers do not clean properly are: 1. Aging of the wiper blades; 2. Corrosion of the glass surface, causing dust to stick to the glass and not be wiped clean. The wiper is a blade structure installed in front of the windshield, consisting of a motor, reducer, four-bar linkage, wiper arm spindle, and wiper assembly. Its function is to remove rain, snow, and dust that obstruct the view on the windshield. The method for removing and installing the wiper: 1. Lift the metal wiper arm from the windshield and keep it stable in a position perpendicular to the windshield; 2. Press the clip to remove the old wiper blade, separate it from the metal arm, then insert the new wiper and rotate it until the hook snaps into place and is secured; 3. Place the wiper back onto the windshield.
I find it quite common for the windshield to not be wiped clean, and I've encountered this issue several times while driving myself. The main reasons could be that the wiper blades have aged, hardened, or cracked, leaving water streaks when wiping. The oil film on the windshield is also a problem, especially after highway driving where insect remains or road grime accumulate, forming a layer that can't be wiped clean no matter how hard you try. Another issue is the pressure of the wiper arm; sometimes the spring loosens or the installation isn't secure, causing uneven pressure on the blade and resulting in streaks when wiping the glass. Weather factors are also crucial—high summer temperatures accelerate rubber aging, while winter snow and ice can block the wiper's range of motion, affecting performance. For safe driving, it's best to check the wear and tear of the wiper blades every few months, regularly clean the windshield with specialized glass cleaner, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. These steps can reduce unexpected issues and ensure clearer visibility while driving.
