Wiper blades are essential for maintaining visibility while driving, especially in bad weather. Here are some signs that your wiper blades might be bad and need replacement:

1. Streaking: If the wipers leave streaks or smears on the windshield, it indicates that the rubber on the blades has worn down or become uneven.
2. Squeaking or Chattering: If the wipers make a squeaking or chattering noise as they move across the windshield, the rubber may have become hardened, cracked, or misshapen, preventing smooth contact with the glass.
3. Skipping: If the wipers skip or jump across the windshield instead of moving smoothly, it could be a sign that the blades are not making proper contact with the glass, often due to worn-out or hardened rubber.
4. Splitting or Cracking: Visibly inspect the wiper blades. If you notice any cracks, splits, or missing pieces of rubber, the blades need to be replaced.
5. Bent Frame: If the metal or plastic frame that holds the rubber blade is bent or damaged, the wiper may not make full contact with the windshield, leading to poor wiping performance.
6. Ineffective Cleaning: If the wipers are unable to clear rain, snow, or debris effectively from your windshield, even after multiple passes, it’s a clear indication that they’re no longer functioning well.
7. Excessive Vibration: If you feel excessive vibration when the wipers are in use, it could be due to uneven wear or a problem with the wiper assembly.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your wiper blades. Regularly checking your wipers and replacing them every 6-12 months can help maintain optimal performance.

Wiper blades go bad over time due to a combination of factors that affect their ability to effectively clear the windshield. Here’s how wipers typically degrade:

1. Exposure to the Elements:
   • Sunlight (UV Rays): Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes the rubber on the wiper blades to become brittle and crack. UV rays break down the chemical bonds in the rubber, leading to deterioration.
   • Heat: High temperatures can cause the rubber to harden, reducing its flexibility and effectiveness.
   • Cold: Freezing temperatures can make the rubber stiff, leading to cracks and reduced performance. Ice can also cause damage if the wipers are operated while frozen to the Windshield
2. Wear and Tear:
   • Friction: Wipers are constantly exposed to friction as they move across the windshield. Over time, this friction wears down the rubber, leading to uneven edges or a thin strip that no longer contacts the glass effectively.
   • Debris: Dirt, dust, and small debris can get caught between the wiper blades and the windshield, causing abrasion that wears down the rubber. This debris can also create tiny cuts or nicks in the blades.
3. Chemical Exposure:
   • Washer Fluid and Chemicals: Certain windshield washer fluids and chemicals, including car waxes or other automotive products, can degrade the rubber on the wipers, causing them to become less effective or to deteriorate more quickly.
4. Improper Use:
   • Using Wipers on a Dry Windshield: Operating wipers on a dry windshield causes excessive friction, which can wear down the rubber much faster.
   • Using Wipers to Clear Ice or Heavy Snow: This can damage both the rubber blades and the wiper mechanism itself. Wipers are not designed to remove heavy snow or ice; doing so can lead to tears or bends in the blade.
5. Age:
   • Over time, even with minimal use, the rubber will naturally degrade due to oxidation and the effects of the environment. This natural aging process eventually makes the wipers less effective, even if they haven’t been heavily used.
6. Mechanical Issues:
   • Wiper Arm Pressure: If the wiper arm is not applying consistent pressure to the windshield, due to wear in the wiper assembly or a bent arm, the blades can wear unevenly. This can also happen if the wiper arm is bent or misaligned.
   • Worn-out Wiper Motor: A malfunctioning wiper motor that doesn’t operate the blades smoothly can lead to uneven wear and tear on the blades.

Regular inspection and timely replacement of wiper blades can help prevent these issues from compromising visibility while driving.