Removing streaks from windshields is easy when you use glass cleaner. If the source of the streaks is a windshield wiper, you'll have to clean the individual wiper blades.
A streaked windshield is dangerous and should be taken care of as soon as possible.
The best way to clean your car’s windshield is with an automotive-grade glass cleaner.
Don’t forget to clean your wiper blades along with their resting place, or they'll get your windshield dirty again.
When it comes to getting your windshield squeaky clean, the first step to take is to use a glass cleaner. While you can get away with using generic brands (like Windex) on your car, it’s probably better to pick up some automotive-grade solvent from your local auto parts store.
Windshield glass cleaner typically comes in a spray bottle, which can be easily wiped away with a microfiber cloth.
For minimal streaking, here’s what to do:
Start by wiping the windshield in a vertical pattern.
Switch to a horizontal pattern when you’re close to finished.
If your windshield is frequently dirty, it may not be the glass to blame. Rather, your windshield wipers could be the culprit.
Even if the wipers aren’t what caused the streaks in the first place, if you’ve ever tried to use them to clean something off your windshield, they’ve probably gotten grimy in the process.
Dirty windshield wipers can cause serious streaking—but you don’t always need to resort to replacing them. Using an all-purpose cleaner, follow these steps to clean your car’s wiper blades:
Wipe the blades up and down with a cloth and an all-purpose cleaner.
Clean the part of the car where the blades rest—either at the base of the windshield or the cowl.
While you’re at it, inspect the blades to make sure they’re not chipped or torn. If your wiper blades are crumbling, your car may need replacement blades.
and washers. Make sure they're functional and not clogged or dirty.
Protect the windshield
Once you've cleaned streaks off of your windshield, consider adding an extra layer of protection to your glass with a specialized glass treatment.
Glass treatments—whether they be self-applicable solvents or a transparent film custom fitted to your car’s windshield—can be a worthwhile investment that protects your windshield from dirt and streaking, along with more harmful debris.
for some comparison shopping and are now saving around $1000 a year. Thank you, Jerry!” —Darius P.
FAQs
Why are my windshield wipers leaving streaks?
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Your windshield could be hiding lots of dirt and dust if your windshield wipers aren’t working properly, or if they’re too worn out. If cleaning the windshield and wiper blades doesn’t help eradicate the problem, it may be time to replace the blades.