The wiper on the rear window of my car is barely working. It can only wipe about the first fifth of the area it%26#039;s supposed to cover. Does this mean I should change? I have no idea when I last changed the wipers too, which is another sign.
Also, what are good brands of wipers? Is there a specific type I should get for rear window wipers?
Thanks in advance|||You need more than just a wiper blade. I%26#039;d get it to a shop and get an estimate for repairing it.|||That does mean you should change. That is unsafe...you may get a few more months out of the wipers if you clean it with rubbing compound. Check your car%26#039;s manual or the representatives at your local parts dealer for the type of wiper you need for the back. Make sure you do not skimp on the wipers b/c they%26#039;re very important.
Added: I misread the question, if the wiper only goes about 1/5th the window, it%26#039;s not the wiper it%26#039;s probably the motor. Take the panel off of the back hatch and take out the wiper motor and test it with a multimeter. Best to buy a new one and directly replace it.|||Wiper blades generally are good for about 6 months. Even if they are seldom used, they are still subject to UV rays which can deteriorate the rubber/plastic in them. I generally change mine 2X a year Spring and Fall. If you don%26#039;t remember whose brand blades you last used you may need more than just the %26quot;rubbers%26quot; and have to replace the entire wiper blade assembly-which is more expensive-think $6/assemble vs about $3 for just the refill.|||wipers are pretty cheap, if it%26#039;s not doing the job just change it, when you take your car in for an oil change they can check and change wipers for you if you have no idea how to do it, but it%26#039;s really easy if you don%26#039;t mind trying|||anytime your wipers start to streak or miss areas you should replace them. Also check them over for splits or tearing. any defects should be enough to replace them. Always replace them in sets. I always hang onto the best looking wiper blade as an emergency backup should I ever get a broken one and be somewhere I can%26#039;t get to a parts store right away. A used one that streaks is better than one that is broken and leaving you stranded along the highway. at least you can see something and still use the wipers. Go to your local parts store and try to get the factory authorized replacements. Those so called double blades don%26#039;t work all that great either. Triple edge are ok
