What indications suggest that windshield wipers need to be replaced?

Windshield wipers are essential for maintaining visibility during rain or adverse weather conditions. Recognizing the signs that wipers need replacement is crucial for safety. The presence of streaks, skipping, or cracking on the wiper blades indicates that they are no longer making proper contact with the windshield, which can lead to reduced visibility. Streaks may suggest that the rubber has hardened or that dirt and debris are not being effectively cleared, while skipping often occurs when blades do not glide smoothly across the glass. Cracking represents physical damage to the blades that can impair their function further.

In contrast, color changes during use, intermittent functioning, or a lack of visible wear don’t necessarily indicate that the wipers require replacement. While color changes may suggest material degradation, they do not directly affect performance as visibly as streaks or cracks do. Intermittent operation could point to electrical issues rather than wiper blade condition, and the absence of visible wear does not guarantee that the wipers are functioning effectively, particularly if performance issues are present. Thus, recognizing the signs of streaking, skipping, or cracking is the most reliable way to determine the need for replacement.