1. The skipper
If your wiper blades skip across your windscreen rather than smoothly wipe away the water, it’s actually a sign of underuse rather than them being worn out. This often occurs in hot and dry climates where the sun causes the blades to ‘set’ in one direction, rather than being able to flip as the wiper blade switches direction.
In any case, it’s a sign that it’s time to change your wipers. When you do, consider installing a set of wiper blades that use a composite of natural and artificial rubbers rather than 100% natural rubber. Synthetic rubbers have been shown to be more resistant to sun damage and ‘setting’ than natural rubber.
2. The streaker
Windscreen wipers that leave streaks across your windscreen may just need a clean with a soft cloth to remove any grime or debris, but if streaking continues it’s a sign the wipers themselves are failing and that it’s time to change them.
Consider replacing a streaking wiper with a flat wiper like Valeo Service’s aftermarket wiper Hydroconnect™ or Valeo Silencio™, the O.E blade.
Where traditional wiper blades only have between four and eight pressure points, flat blades like Valeo Hydroconnect™ feature hundreds of contact points. This creates a consistent pressure along the entire length of each individual wiper.
The result is a smoother, quieter and more consistent performance, particularly at higher vehicle speeds and during intense use – when we need them the most!
3. The squeaker
Apart from being annoying, a squeaking wiper is a sign of either incorrect fitting or that it’s time for replacement. In both cases, the wiper’s rubber is not making smooth contact with your car’s windscreen and won’t be cleaning it properly.
First try tightening or loosening the wiper arms to see if the blade just needs an adjustment. If you still hear squeaking after adjustment, it’s time to change your blades.
4. The smearer
Smearing can occur when you have a dirty windscreen – a film of debris or grime on the glass can prevent the blades from making clean contact with your windscreen, leaving large areas unclean and you with poor visibility.
If you have cleaned your windscreen and the smearing still occurs, it’s time to change your wipers.
5. The damaged
Apart from all the signs above, if your wiper blades are damaged in any way, their performance and your visibility will be affected. Most importantly, be on the lookout for any damage to the wiper rubber or loss of adhesion to the wiper arm. Also look for any damage to the mechanism itself – bent or damaged wipers need to be replaced immediately.
Make your choice!
Valeo is the world leader in wiping systems, supplying both Original Equipment and the spare parts aftermarket. Valeo Service, the automotive aftermarket specialist, has a comprehensive range of front and rear wiper blades in a variety of differentiated ranges such as Valeo Hydroconnect™ and Valeo First, as mentioned above, as well as the premium 100% Original Equipment replacement range Valeo Silencio™.
Whatever your needs, Valeo Service has a wiper blade solution for you.
Finding the correct replacement model is easy – each Valeo Service wiper blade packet clearly lists the makes and models of vehicles it’s suitable for. Each package also features a QR code linked to an online tool to help make finding the right wiper blade as simple as possible.
Valeo Service replacement wiper blades can be found at auto centres, at local garages and online.
Valeo Service wipers are designed to provide the ultimate in road safety. Trust Valeo for all your wiper needs!
