Windshield Wiper Problems: Common Issues, Fixes, and What to Replace

When your windshield wipers, the rubber blades that clear rain and debris from your windshield. Also known as wiper blades, they're one of the most overlooked safety features in your car. fail, you’re not just dealing with a minor annoyance—you’re driving blind in bad weather. Streaking, chattering, or missed spots aren’t signs you need a better cleaner—they mean the wipers themselves are worn out. And if you wait too long, you risk scratching your windshield, which costs way more to fix than a new set of blades.

Most people don’t realize that wiper problems aren’t always about the rubber. The wiper arms, the metal parts that press the blades against the glass can bend or lose tension, causing uneven pressure. Even the wiper motor, the electric unit that drives the blades back and forth can fail, leaving you with no movement at all. These aren’t rare issues—they show up in every make and model, from budget sedans to SUVs. And while cheap blades might seem like a bargain, they often curl, crack, or smear faster, especially in extreme heat or freezing cold.

You don’t need a mechanic to fix most wiper problems. Replacing blades yourself takes less than ten minutes and saves you $50 or more. But first, you need to know what’s actually wrong. Is it the blades? The arms? Or something deeper? The posts below break down exactly how to tell the difference. You’ll find guides on picking the right size and type for your car, how to spot early signs of wear before it rains, and even safe DIY alternatives for washer fluid that won’t damage your blades. No fluff. No guesses. Just what works.