We have all been there, a rain storm creeps your way while you’re out on the road so you turn on your windshield wipers and they just clearly aren’t doing their one single job, keeping your view clear!
So what exactly is going on with your windshield wipers? First, a good general rule of thumb to always follow is to replace your windshield wipers every six month. Still having an issue with your wipers? Quick-Set Auto Glass is here to help you find the solution by simply identifying the problem.
1. Vibrating Windshield Wipers
Vibrating windshield wipers may appear as chatter or as if your blades are bouncing up and down off your windshield when turned on. This issue may be fixed with a couple easy tips:
First, ensure you are using your windshield wiper fluid and that you have enough of it. Vibrations can simply be caused by not enough moisture. Moisture allows the blades to have a smooth glide across the windshield.
If that does not seem to solve the chatter, check the blades for deterioration. Elements, especially the sun, cause wear and tear to the rubber of the blades causing them to be brittle and not glide smoothly. If this is the case you will need to replace the blades.
One additional cause of the vibrating can also be the result of improper mounting or a bent wiper arm. This means you may need to tighten or loosen the mounting or use pliers to bend the wiper arm to ensure the blade is parallel to the glass.
2. Squeaking Windshield Wipers
If you turn on your windshield wiper blades and there is a screech as they move across the glass, do not run for the WD40! The first thing you should try is to clean away any dirt or grime that may have built up on the rubber blades.
An easy way to clean the blades is to use warm soapy water and then clean the edge of the blade with rubbing alcohol. Once you have done this go ahead and give it a test run. Still squeaking? We are going to go ahead and advise you to replace both blades as soon as possible.
3. Windshield Wipers Smear Water Everywhere or Won’t Wipe The Water Away
These two issues are the most troublesome since you probably cannot see the road ahead of you. The likely cause of this is, unfortunately, pollution. The water is sticking to the particles on your windshield instead of allowing it to drip down or be wiped away.
These problems will require you to ensure that the rubber of the blades again are not worn and brittle from use or the elements. Simply, go examine your blades and if this is the case please replace each of the blades as soon as possible.
If you have just replaced your blades recently, and the wipers are still smearing the water instead of clearing it, or won’t wipe the water away try cleaning your windshield instead of the blades. Start by thoroughly cleaning the exterior of your windshield with auto glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Follow this cleaning up by a water repelling treatment to ensure that the water will not stick next time there is dirt and grime in the air.
If this still does not fix the problem there are vendors out there that offer an upgraded version of wiper fluid to help with this exact problem.
We hope that this list of most common windshield wiper problems and solutions helps keep you safe and have a clear view of the road ahead of you. Please, do not hesitate to ask one of our technicians here at Quick-Set Auto Glass some of their favorite treatments and products for their personal auto glass!
From all of us here at Quick-Set Auto Glass, drive safely out there!
