Wiper blades are essential for clear visibility while driving in rain or snow. However, Skipping Wiper Blades can be a frustrating and distracting problem. This article will explore the causes of skipping wiper blades and offer solutions to fix the issue.
Understanding Wiper Blade Skip
Skipping, also known as chattering, occurs when the wiper blade doesn’t smoothly glide across the windshield. Instead, it jumps or skips, leaving streaks and hindering visibility. This is often caused by a sudden change in friction or stiffness between the blade and the glass. This phenomenon, called stick-slip, happens when the friction coefficient spikes near a structural stiffness spike. This leads to an abrupt change, causing the wiper blade to “release” or “grab” the windshield.
Common Causes of Skipping Wiper Blades
Several factors contribute to wiper blade skipping:
1. Worn or Damaged Wiper Blades:
Old and worn-out wiper blades lose their flexibility and can’t maintain consistent contact with the windshield. Cracks, tears, or rounded edges on the rubber element are common culprits.
2. Dirty Windshield:
A build-up of dirt, grime, bugs, and road debris on the windshield creates a rough surface, increasing friction and causing the blades to skip. Even residue from cleaning solvents can contribute to this problem.
3. Windshield Treatment Issues:
While treatments like Rain-X can improve water beading, improper application or residue can interfere with the wiper blade’s smooth movement.
4. Bent or Damaged Wiper Arms:
A bent wiper arm applies uneven pressure to the blade, preventing it from making full contact with the glass. This uneven pressure can lead to skipping. Rust on older arms can also change their spring rate, impacting pressure.
5. Blade Curvature:
Inconsistencies in the wiper blade’s curvature can cause uneven pressure distribution against the glass, increasing the likelihood of chatter. Maintaining a consistent bend radius is crucial for optimal performance.
6. System Stiffness:
The stiffness of the wiper blade and arm assembly can contribute to skipping. Older, traditional wiper systems are often more susceptible to this issue compared to modern beam blade wipers.
Solutions for Skipping Wiper Blades
Addressing skipping wiper blades often involves one or more of the following solutions:
1. Replace Wiper Blades:
The most common solution is to replace worn or damaged wiper blades. Consider upgrading to beam blades, known for their consistent pressure and reduced chatter.
2. Clean the Windshield:
Thoroughly clean the windshield with a quality glass cleaner and ensure all dirt and grime are removed. This creates a smooth surface for the wiper blades to glide across.
3. Inspect and Repair Wiper Arms:
Check for bent or damaged wiper arms. Replace them if necessary to ensure even pressure distribution on the blades. Also, address any rust buildup that may be affecting spring rates.
4. Adjust Wiper Speed:
Experiment with different wiper speeds. Sometimes, slowing down or speeding up the wipers can reduce skipping by altering the friction coefficient.
5. Consider Aerodynamic Blades:
Aerodynamic blades, often featuring a spoiler, help increase the blade’s contact pressure at higher speeds, potentially reducing skipping.
By understanding the causes and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can effectively address skipping wiper blades and ensure clear visibility while driving in inclement weather.
