What Causes Windshield Wipers to Not Clean Properly?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why windshield wipers may not clean the glass effectively: 1. The windshield washer fluid has not been replaced for too long. Generally, the shelf life of windshield washer fluid is 2-3 years. Prolonged use of expired washer fluid not only results in ineffective cleaning by the wipers but may also cause noticeable scratches on the windshield, posing certain safety hazards. Therefore, regular replacement of windshield washer fluid is essential. 2. It could also be due to hardening of the wiper blades. It is advisable to inspect the wipers monthly to check for any signs of hardening. If hardening is detected, promptly clean the wipers with a lubricant or simply replace them with new ones. Steps for replacing wiper blades: 1. First, lift the existing wiper arm to a 90-degree angle and gently rotate the wiper blade to a certain position. 2. Then, press the connector button between the wiper blade and the wiper arm to remove the old wiper. 3. Installation follows the reverse order of the removal steps.
I've been driving long distances for over a decade. The most common issue with wipers not cleaning properly is aging or deformed rubber blades that can't wipe away water stains, or oil stains, bug residue, and dust on the windshield affecting friction. Especially in rainy conditions when visibility is poor, it's easy to get into accidents—I once almost rear-ended someone on the highway. For daily maintenance, avoid dry-wiping and exposing the wipers to direct sunlight, and replace the rubber blades every six months. If the motor runs but the blades don't move when you turn on the wipers, it might be due to a loose arm connection or an electrical issue. Pro tip: Spraying some dedicated cleaner and wiping the glass can improve performance—cost-effective and safer. In short, don’t delay inspections, and make sure everything’s in order before driving in the rain.
Young people often neglect to replace their wipers, and I've had this issue with my car. Each swipe leaves water streaks, which is really annoying. The main reasons are worn and hardened rubber blades that can't clear water effectively, or an oily film on the windshield that prevents raindrops from rolling off. I remember during a road trip in the rain, poor visibility made driving quite dangerous. Now I've learned to inspect them myself: first check the flexibility of the rubber blades, then clean the windshield surface. For budget maintenance, wipe the windshield monthly or replace with affordable blades to avoid frequent breakdowns. Before rainy days, test the wipers by spraying water – if they don't perform well, replace them without hesitation. Those with DIY skills can also adjust the wiper arm angle to prevent uneven pressure distribution, a trick that works quite well.
