Why Doesn't the Wiper Blade Clean Properly?
3 Answers
There are two main reasons why wiper blades don't clean properly: 1. The sticky secretions from insects adhere to the car windshield, creating an uneven surface that's difficult to wipe off; 2. When parked downwind of a central air conditioning cooling tower, the fine water particles sprayed from the tower settle on the glass, forming small white spots that are hard to remove. Wiper blades, also known as windshield wipers, are blade structures installed in front of the windshield. Their components include an electric motor, reducer, four-bar linkage mechanism, wiper arm spindle, and wiper blade. The function of wiper blades is to clear rain, snow, and dust from the windshield that obstruct the driver's view.
I often encounter the issue of wipers not cleaning properly, mainly due to aging wiper rubber. Over time, the rubber hardens and cracks, reducing friction and making it difficult to wipe rainwater clean. Another common cause is oil film on the windshield. In cities, road dust combined with exhaust residue forms a layer of grease that even new wipers struggle to remove. Incorrect wiper arm angle also affects performance—installation must be parallel to the windshield; otherwise, uneven contact leaves water streaks. I've also noticed that if the wiper spring loosens, insufficient pressure results in incomplete wiping. Additionally, extreme windshield temperatures during rain, especially in winter, can degrade wiper performance. These issues become particularly troublesome during rainy seasons, creating hazardous driving conditions with poor visibility. I always recommend regularly inspecting and replacing old wipers and cleaning the windshield.
Hey, don't panic if your wipers aren't cleaning properly. I've learned some practical tips. First, check if the wiper blades are hardened or damaged. Run your finger along the rubber strip—if there are cracks, it's time to replace them. Windshield oil film is often overlooked; using a dedicated automotive oil film cleaner with a soft cloth works wonders. Make sure the wiper arm is properly aligned—you can use pliers to adjust the angle slightly for better contact with the glass. If the spring tension is insufficient, try manually pressing it tighter or reinforcing it with tools. Avoid dry wiping to prevent accelerated wear. A quick pre-drive check in rainy weather can significantly improve visibility. These simple DIY fixes cost little and eliminate the risk of driving with poor visibility.