Bosch lists streaking, chattering, visible damage to the rubber edge and lost flexibility as signs a blade needs replacing, and names dirt, pollution and insects tearing the rubber as a cause of streaks. Sun and ozone also crack rubber over time, which is why blades wear out even when you rarely use them.
Likely causes
The streak pattern helps point to the cause.
| Cause | Clues | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Worn or torn rubber edge | Thin lines in the same place every wipe; nicked edge | Replace the blade |
| Dirty glass or blade | Smearing or fogging, worse after highway driving or tree sap | Clean glass and blade edges |
| Cracked or hardened rubber | Chattering, skipping, visible cracks | Replace the blade |
| Bent frame or deformed blade | An unwiped band; blade lifts off the glass | Replace the blade; check the arm |
| Wrong blade or arm pressure | New blades still streak; after a windshield replacement | Check fit; have arm pressure and angle checked |
From Bosch published wiper guidance.
Quick fixes to try first
- Wash the windshield, then wipe each blade’s rubber edge with a damp cloth.
- Top up washer fluid with the right seasonal fluid, and never run wipers on ice.
- Lift the blades and look for nicks, cracks or a frame that does not sit flat.
When to replace, and with what
If cleaning does not help, replace the blades in pairs and check both lengths for your car, since driver and passenger sides often differ. Beam blades handle curved windshields and snow better; a store-brand conventional blade is the cheapest option in mild climates. If brand-new blades still streak, Bosch suggests checking the windshield’s condition and the wiper arm’s pressure and angle.
Safety: poor visibility is a hazard. Replace blades that streak across your line of sight right away, and keep washer fluid filled.
Prices and free installation
The Bosch ICON 22-inch blade cost the same at both stores, while Carquest store-brand blades at Advance were cheaper than Duralast at AutoZone. Advance also lists free front and rear wiper installation with purchase. See wiper blade prices and best wiper blades.
Frequently asked questions
Dirt or film on the glass, the wrong blade for the windshield, or arm pressure problems. Clean the windshield thoroughly and confirm the blade fits your vehicle.Why are my new wipers streaking?
Bosch recommends at least once a year, and sooner if they streak, chatter or show damage.How often should wiper blades be replaced?
Cleaning helps when the rubber is just dirty. If the edge is torn, cracked or hard, cleaning will not fix the streaks.Can I clean wiper blades instead of replacing them?
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Sources
We compare auto parts on published specs, warranty terms and dated store prices, and we link every store policy to its official page. We do not run a lab, so we never claim hands-on tests we did not do. About us · How we compare · Editorial policy