It’s pouring rain, and you flick on your windshield wipers, expecting a clear view ahead—but instead, streaks, smudges, or even patches of untouched water make it hard to see. Sound familiar? While wiper blades might not seem important to your car, they keep you safe during bad weather. If they’re not working as they should, it’s time to figure out why.
Common Reasons Your Wiper Blades Aren’t Performing Well
If your wipers are leaving water behind or creating a streaky mess, it could be due to one or more common issues. Let’s dig into what might be causing the problem.
Worn or Damaged Blades
Over time, wiper blades take a beating from exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, dirt, and grime. The rubber can crack, harden, or tear, which affects how effectively the blades can press against the glass. If your blades look brittle or the edges are uneven, it’s probably time for a replacement.
Dirty Windshield or Wiper Blades
A dirty windshield or blades can cause a lot of trouble. Dust, debris, and road grime create a barrier between the glass and the rubber, making it impossible for the wipers to clear water effectively. In some cases, the dirt can even scratch your windshield, leading to long-term damage.
Incorrect Blade Installation
It’s easier than you might think to install wiper blades incorrectly. If they’re not secured properly or don’t fit snugly against the windshield, they won’t sweep water away efficiently. Always double-check that your blades are the right size and securely in place.
Bent Wiper Arms
The arms holding your wiper blades can sometimes get bent out of shape, especially if you’ve accidentally pulled them up too hard or a strong wind has caught them. A bent arm means the blade can’t maintain even contact with the windshield, leading to missed spots and streaks.
Worn-Out Wiper Motor or Linkage
If your wipers aren’t moving at the right speed or seem sluggish, the problem might not be the blades at all. The wiper motor or linkage could be worn out or malfunctioning, preventing the blades from making full, consistent passes across the windshield.
How to Fix the Problem
Clean Everything Thoroughly
Start with the basics: clean your windshield and wiper blades. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and grime from the glass. For the blades, a damp paper towel with a bit of rubbing alcohol can work wonders. Cleaning can often resolve minor issues immediately.
Inspect and Replace Blades if Needed
Take a close look at your wiper blades. If they’re cracked, hardened, or more than six months old, consider replacing them. High-quality blades are worth the investment—they’ll last longer and perform better in all weather conditions.
Check the Wiper Arms
If your blades look fine but aren’t clearing water properly, inspect the wiper arms. Are they bent? Do they look out of alignment? If you notice any issues, a professional can adjust or replace them to restore proper function.
Verify Installation
If you’ve recently changed your wiper blades and they’re not working well, make sure they’re installed correctly. Refer to your vehicle’s manual or consult a professional to ensure everything is in place.
Address Mechanical Problems
If the issue is with the wiper motor or linkage, cleaning and replacing the blades will not help. Unusual noises or erratic wiper movement are signs that you should have a professional look under the hood to diagnose and fix the problem.
Keep your view clear and your drive safe. Morin Brothers Automotive offers top-quality maintenance and repair services to make sure every part of your vehicle is in top shape. Contact us today!
