What to Do When Windshield Wipers Leave Streaks Due to Oil Residue?

[VonHailey]

The simplest solution is to DIY by purchasing a glass degreaser online to remove the oily film. Before use, clean the windshield thoroughly to avoid scratching the glass with sand particles. Alternatively, you can use dish soap and a cloth to scrub the windshield vigorously. Another option is to take your car to a detailing shop for glass polishing. However, this method is expensive and should not be done frequently, as excessive polishing may affect the glass's smoothness and make the problem worse. Toothpaste contains abrasives, and baking soda also has degreasing properties. The most cost-effective method is to use newspaper and scrub hard, similar to cleaning kitchen glass at home—persistent scrubbing can remove the residue.

[AniyahDella]

My car used to have the issue of the windshield becoming blurrier after wiping, mainly due to stubborn oil film adhering to the glass surface. This is caused by the gradual accumulation of cooking fumes and exhaust pollutants during daily use. I specifically purchased an oil film remover, and the steps are quite simple: first, thoroughly clean the windshield, evenly spray the remover, and repeatedly wipe it with a sponge. Wait until it turns into a white powder before rinsing it off. This treatment can significantly improve the wiping effect. Remember to choose specialized oil film removal products, as substitutes like toothpaste or dish soap have limited effectiveness. Parking away from restaurant exhaust vents for long periods can also prevent oil film formation. If the wiper blade rubber has aged and hardened, it may also cause poor wiping and should be replaced based on wear and tear. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure clear visibility during rainy days.

[AlyssaAnn]

The presence of oil stains on the wipers is mostly due to a layer of grease adhering to the glass surface. When dealing with this, I first clean the wiper blades themselves, using warm water mixed with a neutral detergent to carefully scrub the rubber strips, removing oil and dust from the gaps in the rubber. Then, I treat the windshield by soaking a towel in a hot water and vinegar solution to wipe it down, focusing on the area where the wipers operate. This method is very effective for mild oil films. After completing the process, when testing the wipers' effectiveness, it's important to first spray windshield washer fluid for lubrication to avoid damaging the rubber strips by dry wiping. If the results are not satisfactory after trying this, it may be due to a thick oil film or hardened and cracked wiper rubber. It is recommended to replace the wiper blades with high-quality, reliable ones, such as beam blades, which offer better contact and enhance cleaning power. Additionally, reducing tailgating behind large trucks while driving can also minimize oil contamination.

[MacSadie]

I've encountered windshield oil film issues multiple times. Using professional oil film removers is the most effective solution, with spray and wipe-on types available on the market. Ensure the glass is completely clean and moisture-free during application. In emergencies, concentrated dish soap solution can be used as an alternative, though less effective. The key is to thoroughly clean the entire windshield area in circular motions, including the edges. While treating oil film, also check if wiper blades are deformed or aged. Replace immediately if the rubber strips have cracks or insufficient elasticity. Spending about ten minutes for a comprehensive cleaning before rainy season ensures driving safety. When parking under trees, be mindful of resin drips as dried resin worsens wiping problems.