Windshield wiper blades — check the rubber after summer heat
Wiper size
Sun and summer heat harden windshield wiper blades. Before fall rain, run a finger along the rubber edge and look for cracks, curling, or a stiff edge.
Months of sun can bake windshield wiper blades stiff even if you barely used them. Check the rubber before fall rain starts.
Check windshield wiper blade rubber after summer
- Lift each wiper arm away from the glass.
- Run a finger along the rubber edge — it should feel soft and even.
- Look for cracks, nicks, curled tips, or rubber pulling away from the frame.
- If it is hard or split, replace the blade; if it looks fine, wipe it with a damp cloth and lower the arm gently.
Honest stop: soft rubber that still streaks may be a dirty windshield, not a bad blade — clean the glass first.
More help
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