Streaks left on the windscreen in rain show that the wipers are not cleaning properly. The cause is not always a failed motor: dirt on the glass, worn rubber or the wrong replacement part can produce the same result. Starting with an inspection of the glass and blades can help avoid unnecessary parts replacement.
Clean the glass and rubber first
Stop the vehicle somewhere safe. Remove mud, insect residue and greasy deposits with a cleaner suitable for automotive glass. Gently clean the blade rubber using a method that will not damage its surface. Dirty glass can make even a new wiper leave streaks or create noise.
Look for cracks, tears, hardening or distortion in the rubber. If a streak remains in the same place after cleaning, assess the blade’s condition and contact with the glass. Wet the windscreen for a short test; prolonged operation on dry glass can harm the rubber and reduce visibility.
Size and attachment matter when replacing blades
Do not choose replacements by overall length alone. Check the attachment type for the vehicle, the separate driver and passenger side sizes, and the rear blade where fitted. Different model years of the same car may use different parts. Confirm compatibility in the handbook or a parts catalogue using the correct vehicle details.
Some vehicles need the wipers moved to a service position before the arms can be lifted. Do not force an arm that catches the bonnet edge. During replacement, do not let a bare metal arm fall onto the windscreen, as it can damage the glass. Ensure the attachment locks into place and test the wipers together with the washers afterwards.
When is a service inspection needed?
A streak may be a sign of blade wear that replacement can resolve. However, wipers that do not move, stop irregularly or lose coordination may have a different fault. If the electrical connections, motor or linkage need checking, seek service assistance instead of forcing the system to operate.
Do not pull frozen rubber away from the glass or run a system locked by ice. First allow the ice to thaw in accordance with the vehicle instructions. Also check washer fluid and spray operation: a good blade cannot clean a dirty windscreen properly without fluid reaching it.
Blade life varies with use, temperature and environmental conditions. Monitor cleaning performance regularly instead of waiting for a particular calendar date. Do not postpone persistent streaking, noise or judder after cleaning; clear forward visibility is a basic check before a journey.
Photo: Jonathan Borba / Pexels. A real detail photograph directly related to the subject, used under the Pexels licence.
Sources: Bosch Car Service — replacing wiper blades; wiper faults. Sources checked: 24 October 2026. This is an evergreen maintenance guide.
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