When it comes to vehicle maintenance, wiper blades are one of the most overlooked safety components. Most drivers only replace them once visibility becomes dangerously poor — but by that point, the rubber is already worn, split, or dragging across the glass.
To help you avoid that, here are 7 early warning signs that your car needs new wiper blades, plus how to choose the right type for your vehicle using VIPA Car Parts’ number-plate lookup tool.

1. Streaks or Smears on the Windshield

If your blades leave lines, misty patches, or unwiped areas, the rubber edge is no longer making consistent contact with the glass.
Even premium blades wear down gradually from UV exposure, dirt, and temperature changes.

Fix: Replace the blades before the streaks become a visibility hazard.

2. Chattering or Juddering

If the wipers skip or vibrate across the screen, it usually means:

• The blade has hardened

• The wiper arm pressure is uneven

• The rubber has lost flexibility

Hybrid and flat blades tend to prevent this, which is why they’re now fitted to most modern vehicles.

3. Squeaking or Scratching Sounds

Wipers should be quiet. Any loud noise suggests the rubber is drying out or cracking.

This is especially common during:

• Frosty mornings

• Hot summer months

• After extended periods of not being used

If you hear it, it’s time to replace them.

4. Visible Damage to the Rubber

Check for:

• Cracks

• Splits

• Torn edges

• Missing chunks

Even a small tear can cause major wiping issues and will wear the glass over time.

5. Poor Performance in Heavy Rain

If you find yourself fighting to see during a downpour, your wipers aren’t displacing water efficiently.

Upgrading to Aeroflex, Hybrid, or OE-style flat wipers can dramatically improve performance in British weather — especially at motorway speeds.

6. Wind Noise at Higher Speeds

Traditional metal-frame blades can lift slightly at high speed, causing wind noise or reduced wiping pressure.

If you notice this, switching to low-profile flat blades can help eliminate whistle noise and improve contact.

7. They’re Over 6–12 Months Old

Most manufacturers recommend replacing wipers yearly, but UK weather can reduce that lifespan — especially with road salt, frost, and debris.

If you can’t remember the last time you replaced yours…
it’s probably time.

How to Find the Right Wiper Blades for Your Vehicle

VIPA Car Parts makes it simple with the number-plate lookup tool.

Just enter your registration and we’ll show:
✔ Every blade that fits your vehicle
✔ Aeroflex, Hybrid, Universal, Rear & specialist options
✔ Upgrade suggestions for better all-weather performance

This avoids buying the wrong clip type — one of the most common mistakes drivers make.

Why Upgrading Your Wiper Blades Matters

Better wipers = safer driving.