Clear visibility is one of the most basic but essential parts of safe driving, especially during rainy or snowy weather. When your windshield wipers leave streaks, skip across the glass, or chatter noisily, it can turn a quick trip into a frustrating or even dangerous experience. If your wipers aren’t working smoothly, several underlying issues could be to blame.
Let’s look at the most common causes and what you can do to fix or prevent them.
Worn-Out Wiper Blades
The most common reason wipers skip or leave streaks is simple wear. Rubber degrades over time, and wiper blades are exposed to sun, heat, rain, dirt, and snow year-round. That combination causes the edge of the blade to harden or crack, which prevents it from making full contact with the glass.
Even if your wipers look fine at a glance, small cracks or uneven wear along the edge can cause poor performance. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to replace wiper blades every six to twelve months, depending on weather conditions and usage.
Dirt and Grime on the Windshield
If your windshield is covered in road film, tree sap, bug residue, or other debris, it can interfere with the wipers' ability to glide smoothly. The wipers drag across the uneven surface and skip or squeak as they move. In some cases, they may leave behind smears or water trails.
Regularly cleaning your windshield with glass cleaner and occasionally scrubbing it with a dedicated windshield-cleaning sponge or clay bar can help remove residue and restore smooth wiping.
Improper Wiper Blade Installation
If your wiper blades were recently replaced and started skipping or smearing shortly afterward, it’s possible they were not installed correctly. Misaligned wipers may not sit evenly against the glass, causing poor contact and uneven wiping. In other cases, the blade may be the wrong size or style for your vehicle.
Double-check the fit and installation, especially if you installed the blades yourself. A blade that doesn’t match the curve of your windshield will always struggle to clean it effectively.
Bent Wiper Arms
Over time, wiper arms can bend slightly due to snow buildup, misuse, or even someone accidentally lifting and letting them snap back onto the glass. If the arm doesn't hold the blade flat against the windshield with even pressure, the blade can chatter, skip, or miss areas entirely.
Gently lifting the wiper arm and inspecting the tension and angle can reveal if the arm is no longer aligned. If one side presses more than the other or the blade seems to hover in spots, a bent arm may be the issue.
Weak Wiper Arm Tension
The springs inside your wiper arms are responsible for pressing the blade against the windshield. As these springs age, they can lose strength. This reduces pressure and allows the blade to lift or bounce, especially at higher speeds or in strong wind.
If your wiper blades seem to hover above the glass or miss areas even though they are in good shape, the arms may need adjustment or replacement.
Using the Wrong Type of Washer Fluid
Washer fluid helps clean the windshield and lubricate the path for the wipers. If you're using a diluted or low-quality washer fluid, it may not clear away grime effectively, and the blades may drag instead of glide.
During colder months, summer-grade washer fluid can freeze or leave a film on the glass. Switching to a winter formula can help maintain clear visibility and smoother wiper performance.
Damaged Windshield
Sometimes the problem isn’t with the wipers at all. Pitting or etching on your windshield from road debris, ice scrapers, or old wiper blades can cause areas of poor contact. These tiny imperfections scatter water and interfere with the wipers' movement.
In cases where the windshield surface is noticeably worn, polishing may help. If the damage is severe, replacement might be the only real fix.
Keep Your View Clear with Regular Maintenance
If your wipers are skipping, streaking, or just not working like they used to, the solution might be as simple as a new set of blades or a clean windshield. But if you’ve ruled out the basics and the problem persists, it could be time for a deeper look at the wiper arms or other components.
For expert help with wiper issues and all-season visibility, visit Tom's Auto Center in McFarland, WI. We'll inspect your wipers, windshield, and washer system to make sure everything is working together for safe, clear driving.