Why can't the windshield wipers clean properly in the rain?
2 Answers
If the windshield wipers can't clean properly in the rain, it is likely due to hardened wiper rubber strips, and replacing them with new ones should solve the problem. When driving in light rain, avoid immediately turning on the wipers. At this point, there isn't enough moisture on the windshield, and dry wiping will only have the opposite effect, making it difficult to clean the smeared mud stains later. If the raindrops accumulate slowly and don't obstruct your vision, it's advisable to wait until more raindrops have gathered on the windshield before activating the wipers. Wipers, also known as windscreen wipers, are devices used to remove raindrops and dust attached to the vehicle's windshield, improving the driver's visibility and enhancing driving safety. Due to legal requirements, almost all vehicles worldwide are equipped with wipers.
Having driven for so many years, I've seen quite a few cases where the windshield doesn't get cleaned properly on rainy days. The most common issue is aging wiper blades—the rubber tends to harden and become brittle after two or three years of use, causing the wipers to judder and leave water streaks or blurry patches. Another headache is oil film on the glass surface; oil stains or dust splashed onto the windshield while driving in the city can't be removed with plain water and require specialized glass cleaner for a thorough wipe. Loose wiper arms can also lead to uneven wiping, so check if the screws are tightened properly. Additionally, when the rain is too heavy, the wiper speed might not keep up—just slow down a bit. I recommend replacing wiper blades every six months—don’t skimp on this, as safety comes first. During car washes, pay attention to removing oil film to prevent wiper judder.
