Windshield wiper blades sometimes fail to glide smoothly across the glass surface, resulting in a jerky, uneven movement. This phenomenon, characterized by intermittent contact and a hopping motion, obstructs consistent visibility during inclement weather. A common example includes seeing streaks and unswept portions of the windshield even after the wipers have completed a full cycle.
Consistent and effective windshield wiping is essential for maintaining clear vision and safe driving conditions. Impaired visibility due to malfunctioning wipers significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially during rain, snow, or fog. Historically, reliable windshield wiping systems have been a crucial safety feature in automotive design, evolving from simple manual mechanisms to sophisticated automated systems.