Signs of a failing Windshield Wiper

Signs of a Failing Windshield Wiper

Windshield Wipers are a critical component when it comes to vehicle safety. Failing windshield wipers, can severely affect your ability to see and affect the safety of you and others on the road.

Wiper Blades, degrade for a variety of reasons and should be replaced when you start to see the performance of the wiper declining. Some of the symptoms of  poor performing wiper blades include;

  • Windshield Streaks
  • Squeaking/ Screeching sound
  • Bouncing Blades
  • No Windshield contact
  • Bent Frames

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should have them replaced. Even if you do not have any symptoms, replacing your wiper blades every year is a great way to keep your visibility when you need it the most.

Wiper blades come in a variety of different qualities and prices. We recommend replacing your windshield wiper blades with ones that are of good quality and going to withstand the harsh environments. If you live in an environment that sees ice and snow, you may want to consider a winter blade that remains more flexible in the cold weather and has a rubber cover over the arms to prevent ice and slush from freezing to it.

How to Clean Windshield Wipers

  1. Prepare the Wipers
  2. Dry clean the wipers
  3. Choose a product that works well with rubber
  4. Clean the rubber part of the wiper
  5. Clean the hinge and wiper arm
  6. Test the wipers

Two questions you should get answers to prior to replacing your windshield wipers?

  1. What size of Windshield wipers do I need?
  2. When do You replace Windshield Wipers?

How to Change Windshield Wipers.

  1. Refer to your Owner’s Manual
  2. Purchase a quality wiper blade
  3. Lubricate the old wiper to aid in removal  
  4. Remove old wiper
  5. Install new Wiper
  6. Clean new wiper

To help you with your installation, click here to watch a video.

These easy but important maintenance items will ensure you can see clearly when you need to the most.

Installing wiper blades is a fairly simple job but if you feel you don’t have the right skills many parts stores will install them for free or your local repair facility will also handle the task for you. If you need help finding a repair facility, use our “Find My Shop” feature to locate a trusted shop near you.

Jeffrey Cox

Jeffrey Cox is the President of the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association and has been in the automotive industry for 25 years. As a teenager, Jeff knew he would spend his career in the automotive industry and has been tenacious about learning every aspect of the industry. He started his career as a technician and has spent most of his career in leadership roles in Training, Operations and Marketing.

Jeffrey joined the AMRA staff in April of 2017 after being a Co-Chair of their technical Committee for the previous 5 years. He is an ASE Master Certified Technician with a Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive Technology from Southern Illinois University and has earned a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Lewis University.

As the President at AMRA, Jeff’s relentless approach at serving their membership has been instrumental for the associations ability to recruit and retain membership.

Jeff has spent the last 20 years in the Chicagoland area with wife and dogs. In his spare time, he enjoys restoring clasic Mopars, hunting, and golfing.