What to Do When the Car Windshield Doesn't Wipe Clean?
2 Answers
If the windshield doesn't wipe clean, you can use dish soap and toothpaste for cleaning. Here are some methods: 1. Cleaning: Wet the windshield with water, apply toothpaste to the left half, scrub it with a sponge, rinse with clean water, then use dish soap to clean the right half of the windshield, scrub with a sponge, and rinse thoroughly. 2. Replace the wipers: Generally, when the windshield doesn't wipe clean, the issue often lies with the wipers. Alternatively, the glass itself might be dirty. During driving, dust from the air and exhaust emissions can form an oily film, which wipers alone can't clean effectively. In such cases, you need to use windshield washer fluid or toothpaste for cleaning, applying slightly more pressure with a sponge in a circular motion for scrubbing.
I've been driving for ten years, and the issue of windshield wipers not cleaning properly is something I often encounter, mainly due to two big problems: wiper blade aging and glass oil film. First, let's talk about wiper blades. When the rubber wears out, the wiping performance deteriorates, especially during rainy days when driving feels like looking through fog, making it hard to see the road. Once, while driving on the highway during a heavy downpour, the wipers were ineffective after prolonged use, so I quickly pulled over to check and found that the wiper blade had cracked. Replacing it immediately made a huge difference. As for oil film, it forms from accumulated exhaust fumes and dust on the road, affecting visibility. I usually solve this by scrubbing with professional glass cleaner. Additionally, insufficient wiper fluid can also cause problems, so I regularly check and top it up to ensure lubrication. From experience, replacing wiper blades every six months isn’t expensive but ensures safety, and in dusty areas, more frequent checks are necessary. Don’t be lazy—address these issues early to avoid risks and unnecessary delays.