Smearing Wipers...

... that smears across your windscreen.

A few simple checks can save you a few quid as these wiper thingy buggers ain't cheap you know.

A good parts department will assist rather than go in for the straight sell. Its all about the word of mouth you see and well, saving someone a few quid here and there can play dividends to the right garage.

Wipers are an external component that are exposed to the elements and that is everything. Wind, rain, snow, sun, sandstorms (Yes, we in the UK are subjected to those, thanks to the deserts far far away) and any other crap that the British weather likes to throw at us.

Driving your vehicle around in these elements means that they are subjected to nasty traffic film. A bit like the rest of the motor really.
Washing the car doesn't necessarily extend to the wipers. These babies need additional care and attention. The rubber becomes built up with grime from the elements which in turn leads to smearing.

Of course, popping down to your local garage or spares shop and grabbing a new set will solve the problem straight away. But it will also cost you.

In our experience, the only time your wipers need changing are when the rubber is literally hanging off the blade itself.

Now, most households have a bottle of vinegar in their condiment cupboard. Good for chips of course! But also great for wipers. We kid you not.
Using a clean cloth, and applying a good bit of vinegar, wipe the rubbers up and down a few times. You will notice that the cloth will be dirty. The vinegar has the correct acidity to remove traffic film and keep the rubber supple.

At the same time, using a separate clean cloth, apply neat screenwash to your windscreen and clean as required.

Both of these methods together will cure almost any smearing straight away. And will save you a few spondoolies in the process.

Although, we can't tell you how to live and if new wiper blades are your thing, then go and spend away. If that is a must, there are plenty on the market, just don't fall for the cheaper ones. As much as they'll work for you, they won't last long.

Good wipers will last you an age if you look after them.

- Will B ;)