Wipers Leave Streaks
When wipers leave streaks or smudges on the glass, visibility during rain or snow is severely reduced. This is a common symptom that directly affects driving safety due to reduced road visibility.
Likely causes — most common first
1
Worn-out Rubber Blade of the Wiper
Over time, the rubber becomes brittle, cracks, and loses elasticity due to sun and temperature changes, causing the edge to stop fitting and cleaning the glass evenly.
How to check:Run your finger along the working edge of the wiper (with the car turned off): if you feel unevenness, cracks, or brittle rubber, it's time to buy new wipers.
2
Dirt or Grease on the Glass and Wipers
Road dust, washer fluid residue, and oil accumulate on the glass and rubber, smearing into wide streaks during operation.
How to check:Thoroughly wash the windshield with a degreaser and wipe the wipers with a damp cloth to remove dirt residue.
3
Loosening of the Wiper Arm Spring
The wiper arm mechanism loses its spring tension over the years, causing the wiper to press against the glass too weakly and leaving uncleaned spots.
How to check:Pull the wiper away from the glass and release it: it should snap back energetically. If it moves slowly, the spring is loose.
4
Deformation or Damage to the Wiper Frame
Mechanical damage to the wiper arm or frame causes uneven load distribution, leaving part of the glass dirty.
How to check:Watch the wipers from inside: if streaks always appear in the same spot, inspect the arm for bends.
