What to Do When the Windshield Gets Blurry and the Wipers Don't Clean Properly on Rainy Days?
2 Answers
Turn on the power (do not start the car), then turn off the power and remove the key. Next, push the wiper switch downward—this will make the wipers stand upright, allowing you to remove them. Soak some sandpaper in water, then gently rub the bristles of the wipers to straighten them and remove any dirt.
As a driver, I've experienced quite a few situations where the windshield wipers couldn't clean properly. When it's pouring rain and the outside of the windshield becomes completely blurred, it's genuinely frightening and directly affects driving safety. The possible reasons could be aging or deformation of the wiper rubber strips, with weather changes causing the rubber to harden and fail. There might also be an oil film or dust accumulation on the glass surface, turning into a blurry mess as soon as rain hits. I would first slow down and pull over, using the glass cleaning wipes I carry to wipe the windshield and remove stubborn stains. Then, I'd check if the wipers are securely installed, adjusting the clamp position if they're loose. Old wipers are best replaced directly, opting for rubber strip types specifically designed for rainy weather for better durability. It's good practice to develop a habit of checking the wipers before driving and replacing the rubber strips regularly to extend their lifespan—generally, replacing them every six months is sufficient. Adding a dedicated cleaning fluid to the rainwater can keep the spray nozzles clear, preventing water stains from lingering. Don't forget safety first; when visibility is poor, don't hesitate to turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind. A little maintenance like this can make rainy-day driving much more reassuring.
