Windshield wiper blades: common defects and their signs

1. Cracking of the rubber element.
   • Streaks remain on the windshield after cleaning.
   • During window wipers operation unusual screeching is heard.
2. Frame deformation.
   • The blades adhere to the windshield non-tightly.
   • Stains remain on the windshield after cleaning.
   • Operation of the window wipers comes with foreign sounds.

How to repair or replace windshield wiper blades?

Usually, repair of the wiper blade lies in replacement of the broken rubber element of framed wiper blades. It is quite a simple procedure, which any car owner can handle unassistedly. In order to replace the blade rubber element, you need to remove caps from both sides of the blade, demount spoiler plates, after this remove the worn rubber and install a new one into its place. If this procedure causes problems you need to treat the rubber element with soap solution in advance.

It is recommended to perform rubber elements replacement procedure no more than two times for framed wiper blades, as the frame itself also wears out and loses its efficiency. In this case, and also if the wiper frame is deformed, you need to perform replacement of the component. This process is easy. In order to replace the wiper blade on the car yourself, you need to set the wiper arm vertically, release the fastener of the wiper blade on the inner side of the frame, turn it by 90º and remove from the mounting seat by pulling. Then you should install a new component and secure its fastening. It is recommended to perform this procedure at least twice a year, because it is considered that lifetime of the automotive window wiper blades ends in this period. Also it is preferable to replace the components of the windshield wiper in pair.