Why Do Windshield Wipers Always Leave Streaks?
4 Answers
Windshield wipers may leave streaks because the middle or tip of the wiper has lifted and cannot make full contact with the glass. First, wet the glass with water and run your hand back and forth across it. If there is dust on the glass surface, try wiping it several times with warm water, then gently rub it with your hand. Alternatively, you can use newspaper, rinse with water, and then feel the glass with your hand. Another option is to lightly sand the wiper blade or purchase a glass rain repellent. After prolonged exposure to wind and sun, windshield wipers will eventually wear out and cannot be repaired. At this point, the only way to achieve a clean wipe is to replace them with new ones. The position and angle of the wipers are crucial; any misalignment can cause shaking issues, naturally preventing a clean wipe. If this is the case, simply adjusting the wiper's position will solve the problem.
The wiper blades aren't cleaning properly, which is a frequent issue I encounter and quite annoying. The main reason is the aging of wiper blades where the rubber hardens, leading to cracks over time and ineffective rainwater removal. Additionally, there might be oil film or dirt residue on the windshield, especially after driving in the rain, which can accumulate dust and grease, affecting the wiping performance. I recommend first checking the condition of the wiper blades and cleaning them with a wet cloth or glass cleaner to see if it improves. If not, it could be due to insufficient tension in the wiper arm or improper installation, requiring adjustment or replacement. Parking in the shade to avoid direct sunlight can help reduce rubber aging. Wiper blades typically last six months to a year, and regular maintenance can save money and ensure safety. Poor visibility while driving is dangerous, so don't delay—address it promptly. For a simple fix, you can DIY by replacing the blades yourself; try buying affordable ones online.
Every time it rains and the wipers don't clean properly, I feel really annoyed. A while ago, I checked them myself and found bird droppings and tree sap stuck on the wiper blades, which were so dirty that they affected the wiping effect. I simply cleaned them with water and a soft cloth, and the results were much better. If the rubber on the wipers is worn or hardened, it's best to replace them—new blades cost just a few dollars online, and after replacing them, they wipe like new. If there's an oil film on the windshield, using a dedicated cleaner to wipe it off can solve the problem. Don't overlook small details, like improper tension in the wiper arms, which can also cause issues—just adjust them yourself. When parking, try to choose shaded spots to reduce dirt buildup. Make it a habit to check before the rainy season—safety on the road is the most important thing.
I think the issue of wipers not cleaning properly is quite common, possibly caused by the wiper blades losing elasticity over time. The rubber material hardens with age, leaving streaks when wiping rainwater. Or there might be an oily film buildup on the windshield affecting visibility. It's best to first clean the glass and wiper blades yourself, trying white vinegar or windshield washer fluid. If that doesn't work, consider replacing the blades—don't cheap out on low-quality products as they tend to fail faster. For safety, don't push through with poor visibility, especially when driving at night which is more dangerous. Regular maintenance can prevent this; checking every six months is sufficient.
