Why Does My Windshield Wiper Skip

Understanding Wiper Skipping

A wiper blade is designed to have a flexible edge that acts as a squeegee to remove moisture and debris from the glass, a frame that holds is securely, and a pivot that attaches the blade to the wiper arm. With its simplistic design, there are only a few issues that can cause wipers to skip.

• Using the wipers dry – You need some moisture between the blade and the glass for it to operate as it should. A squirt of washer fluid may be necessary.
• Dirty wiper blades – If the rubber edge has a substance on it that increases its resistance against the glass, it can chatter instead of moving smoothly. A quick cleaning can be helpful.
• The wipers are old or worn out – Aged wiper blades can have hardened rubber edges that don’t conform to the glass properly, causing them to chatter and skip.
• The wiper arm is bent – If the wiper arm is holding the blade at an incorrect angle, it can skip rather than move as designed. The arm may need to be bent back or replaced.

Of course, the most common issue is a worn-out wiper blade. If you’re trying to figure out how to stop wipers from skipping, wear and tear or hardening have likely already taken hold. A thorough inspection of all your wiper blades is necessary, and if you notice these symptoms, it’s time for replacements:

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• Cuts or nicks in the rubber blade edge
• Hardening or cracking on the rubber
• Rough edges
• Tears or missing pieces of the rubber

DIY Wiper Maintenance

Before switching your wiper blades off for a new set, a bit of maintenance might be all it takes to get them working well again. Follow these steps to get the wipers cleaned up and lubricated.

• Lift the wipers and secure them. Put a soft cloth between the arm and the glass to prevent it from snapping down and smashing the windshield.
• Wipe the edge with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris.
• With a cloth dampened with washer fluid, wipe the edge of the wiper blade several times until it no longer leaves residue on the cloth.
• Spray a small amount of silicone lubricant on the pivot for the pivot at the wiper arm and any hinges along the blade length.
• Repeat with the each of your wiper blades.

Clean, well-lubricated wipers will work for longer, and you might be able to squeak out several more months of usage out of them, saving you money in the long run.

Choosing the Right Wiper Blades

Selecting the right wiper blades is essential for maintaining optimal visibility and safety while driving. One crucial aspect to consider is the impact of wiper blade type on performance. Traditional rubber blades are cost-effective but may struggle in extreme weather conditions. Beam blades, on the other hand, provide consistent pressure across the windshield for improved performance in various conditions.

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Factors to consider when choosing wiper blades include the climate in your region, driving conditions, and the type of material used in the blades. For harsh weather, such as heavy rain or snow, durable materials like silicone or rubber compounds with a protective coating are recommended.

And of course, the size needs to be right for your vehicle. Whether you physically measure each blade, match the length by bringing them in-store, or finding the right lengths shopping online at AutoZone, we’ll help you find the best fit.

Installation Tips for Smooth Wiping

When you’re installing new wipers, ensure the clip is fully seated into the wiper arm. Then, check that the blade is aligned properly. Look at how the wiper blade sits against the glass – the edge should be perpendicular to the windshield, more or less. If it isn’t, the wiper arm may need to be adjusted or replaced.

When you’re installing your wipers, avoid falling for these common mistakes:

• Don’t mix blade types – use the same brand and type on both side of the windshield since a mismatch can cause uneven performance.
• Don’t force the install – if you’re pushing or tugging on the blade too hard, it could bend the blade or change the wiper arm’s arc.
• Don’t forget to clean the windshield – substances stuck on the windshield can damage the new blades.

Seasonal Wiper Care

Different weather conditions require specific care. Here are suggestions for wiper blade maintenance tailored to various weather conditions:

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In hot weather:

• High temperatures can cause wiper blades to deteriorate faster. Regularly inspect the blades for signs of wear, such as cracks or fraying.
• In hot and dusty conditions, a clean windshield reduces friction and prolongs the life of wiper blades. Remove debris and clean the windshield regularly.

In cold weather:

• To prevent blades from freezing to the windshield, lift them away from the glass before parking in extremely cold conditions. This reduces the chance of ice formation.

• Consider switching to winter-specific wiper blades designed to handle snow and ice. These blades often have a protective covering or boot over the frame to prevent ice buildup.

In rainy weather:

• Rain combined with dirt and grime can create a sludgy residue on the windshield. Clean the windshield frequently to prevent this residue from affecting wiper performance.
• In areas with frequent rain, replace wiper blades regularly to ensure they maintain their effectiveness. Old blades can cause streaking and reduced visibility.

In extreme cold or heat:

• In hot and dry climates, park in shaded areas or use a windshield sunshade to protect wiper blades from excessive heat and UV radiation.
• In cold and wet conditions, inspect wiper blades for any ice-related damage. Replace blades if they show signs of cracking or stiffness.

When you need new windshield wiper blades, AutoZone is here for you. Shop top brands like Duralast Flex to get excellent performance at a great price.

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Category: WHY