Windscreen Wiper Problems: When to Clean, Replace or Repair Them

Learn how to spot worn windscreen wipers, choose compatible replacements and recognise when a wiper fault needs professional attention.

Windscreen Wipers Not Clearing Properly? How to Check and Replace Them

Poor visibility in rain can turn a routine journey into a dangerous one. If your windscreen wipers leave broad unwiped areas, judder across the glass or stop moving altogether, investigate the problem before driving in conditions where clear visibility is essential.

The cause may be as simple as dirt on the glass, but damaged blades or a fault in the wiper mechanism can require replacement or repair.

First, check the windscreen itself

Road film, grease and other deposits can prevent a wiper blade from clearing the glass effectively.

Clean the windscreen with a suitable automotive glass cleaner and inspect the blade edges for trapped dirt. If the wipers still smear or skip after cleaning, examine their condition more closely.

How to recognise a worn wiper blade

Look for rubber that is split, distorted, loose or missing. A blade that no longer sits evenly against the windscreen may leave an unwiped strip.

Replace a blade if its condition prevents it from clearing the glass properly. Do not wait for a fixed replacement date if visibility has already deteriorated.

Choosing the correct replacement

Wiper blades vary by length, connector and design. The driver’s and passenger’s sides may use different lengths, and some vehicles require a specific rear blade.

Use your vehicle handbook or a reliable vehicle-specific parts catalogue to identify compatible blades. Check the fitting mechanism as well as the length before purchasing.

Replacing a wiper blade safely

Follow the instructions for your vehicle and the replacement blade. Some cars require the wipers to be moved into a service position before the arms can be lifted.

Protect the windscreen from the spring-loaded wiper arm, remove the old blade using its release mechanism and fit the new one until it is securely attached. Lower the arm gently and test the wipers with washer fluid.

If the blade does not lock into place or interferes with the other wiper, stop and check the fitment rather than forcing it.

What if new blades do not solve the problem?

A wiper arm, linkage, motor, electrical supply or washer-system fault may be responsible. If one wiper moves differently from the other, the arms stop in the wrong position or the system does not respond at all, arrange a diagnosis.

Do not repeatedly operate wipers that are frozen to the glass. Clear ice safely before switching them on.

Can faulty wipers cause an MOT failure?

Yes. Wipers that cannot adequately clear the area of the windscreen required for the driver’s view can cause an MOT failure.

A functioning washer system is also important. Check that the washer jets deliver fluid to the windscreen and that the reservoir contains suitable screenwash.

Need help with your wipers or washer system?

Visit HON CAR SERVICE  to arrange an inspection or repair.