The most common faults in wiper blades can be caused by wear and tear, environmental factors, and improper maintenance. Here are some of the most common issues:
1. Worn-Out Blades
- Cause: Over time, the rubber on the wiper blades can wear down, leading to less effective wiping.
- Signs: Streaking or missed areas on the windshield, especially after rain.
2. Chattering or Squeaking
- Cause: If the wiper blade doesn't glide smoothly across the windshield, it may make a chattering or squeaking sound.
- Signs: Noise during operation, often due to dirt or debris stuck between the blade and windshield, or an uneven blade.
3. Bent or Damaged Frame
- Cause: Accidental impacts or wear can cause the frame of the wiper blade to bend.
- Signs: Uneven contact with the windshield, which may cause streaking or ineffective wiping.
4. Cracked or Split Rubber
- Cause: Exposure to extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, UV light) or age can cause the rubber to crack or split.
- Signs: The rubber appears visibly damaged, often leading to poor wiping performance.
5. Wiper Blade Lift
- Cause: The wiper blade may become lifted off the windshield due to wind or improper installation.
- Signs: The blade does not fully make contact with the windshield and may leave uncleaned areas.
6. Residual Water Marks or Streaks
- Cause: Old or damaged wiper blades often leave streaks or marks, as they fail to fully clear the windshield.
- Signs: Streaks or water marks that remain after using the wipers, reducing visibility.
7. Improper Installation
- Cause: Incorrect installation of the wiper blades can lead to uneven contact with the windshield.
- Signs: The wipers may not work as efficiently, or they may fall off completely.
8. Wiper Arm Misalignment
- Cause: If the wiper arm is out of alignment, it can cause uneven pressure on the wiper blade.
- Signs: Streaking or ineffective wiping, often caused by the arm not being at the proper angle.
9. Contaminated Blades
- Cause: Dirt, oil, and road grime can accumulate on the blades and cause them to perform poorly.
- Signs: Streaks or dirt marks left behind even after the wipers are used.
10. Frozen Wiper Blades
- Cause: In cold weather, wiper blades can freeze to the windshield, especially if the blade is wet when it freezes.
- Signs: Wipers not moving at all, or skipping during operation.
Proper maintenance, such as regularly cleaning the blades and replacing them as needed, can prevent many of these issues. Typically, wiper blades should be replaced every 6-12 months, or sooner if any of these faults occur.
