Signs Your Windshield Wipers Need To Be Replaced
When to Replace Your Windshield Wipers
With spring here, rain showers are expected—and to drive through them safely, you need reliable windshield wipers. Maintaining visibility while driving is essential, but many vehicle owners overlook just how important wiper blades are. The last thing you want is to discover you need new wipers in the middle of a storm.
The average lifespan of windshield wipers is six months to a year. If your wipers are older than that, it’s a good idea to replace them. Fortunately, there are several signs that can help you determine whether they need to be swapped out sooner.
1. Windshield Streaks
When wiper blades wear out, they may start leaving streaks across the windshield during rain. These streaks appear as smudges or lines even while the wipers are moving. This is especially dangerous in low-light conditions, as it reduces visibility.
The most common cause of streaking is worn rubber on the blades. Try running the wipers in dry conditions to check for streaks or smudges. If you notice any, it’s time for a replacement.
2. Squeaking or Chattering
If you hear a high-pitched squeak or a chattering sound while using your wipers, it could mean the rubber has hardened, cracked, or become uneven. These noises occur when the blades fail to maintain proper contact with the windshield.
This can also happen if debris is lodged between the blade and the glass. If you hear squeaking or chattering, inspect the blades for visible damage or buildup.
3. Jerking or Skipping
Wiper blades should move smoothly across the windshield. If they skip or jerk, it’s a sign the rubber is worn down and no longer making consistent contact with the glass.
Jerky or uneven motion can leave parts of the windshield untouched, making driving in heavy rain risky. Always pay attention to the motion of your wipers when you turn them on.
4. Visible Damage to Wiper Blades
Cracks, splits, or separation in the rubber are clear signs that your blades need replacing. If metal parts of the wiper arm become exposed, they can scratch or damage the windshield—a much more expensive issue to fix. It’s a good habit to inspect your wipers regularly, especially before severe weather. Even minor damage is reason enough to replace them.
5. Poor Performance in Heavy Rain
Wipers that work fine in a light drizzle might fail in a downpour. As rubber wears down, it offers less effective coverage and can struggle in severe conditions.
Reliable windshield wipers are crucial for safe driving during storms. If your wipers aren’t doing their job, don’t wait—replace them as soon as possible.
Do You Have Windshield Damage in the Charlotte or Belmont Areas of NC?
If you're in Charlotte, Belmont, or Gastonia, North Carolina, and have windshield damage, contact All Action Auto Glass. We've been providing mobile auto glass services in the Charlotte area for over 30 years and are here to answer any questions you may have about your damaged windshield or auto glass.
