What are the warning signs that a blade is worn out?
The most common warning signs signaling time for replacement include dry, cracked or split rubber or damage to the wiper arm assembly (e.g. bent or broken metal) which can result in streaking, chatter or scratching of the windshield. • When wipers streak instead of fully clearing the windshield, it can be a sign that exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, tree sap, road tar, and automotive chemicals like oil, brake fluid, coolant, and road grit has caused the rubber to harden or crack. • When blades skip and vibrate, display a choppy wiping action or smear water, this is called chattering, and can be caused by extreme hot or cold temperatures or extended periods of non-use. • As blades age, old or worn rubber will not move quietly across the windshield; squeaky blades are another sign it is time for replacement. • When the blades smear water instead of clearing, causing cloudy and impaired visibility, this is often caused by blade edges that have worn and are no longer sharp. In those
