.png)
Stay safe and legal with clear visibility and working lights. This guide covers wiper types and sizes, common faults, bulb types, and simple fitting tips.
Wiper Blades — Types & Sizes
- Conventional (frame): metal frame with multiple pressure points.
- Flat/Beam: slim, curved spine for even pressure and less wind lift.
- Hybrid: framed blade with an aerodynamic shroud.
- Rear blades: often specific to the model and arm type.
Sizing note: Driver and passenger sides can differ; some cars use opposing sizes or twin drivers. Rear sizes vary widely.
- Smearing, streaks, or missed areas on the glass
- Juddering or chattering on each sweep
- Torn, split, or hardened rubber
- Blade lifts at speed or poor contact at the ends
- Wiper noise even on a wet screen
- Switch off ignition and set wipers to the “service” position if available, or gently lift arms away from the screen.
- Press the release tab/clip and slide the blade off the arm (hook, pinch tab, bayonet, or side pin types).
- Clip the new blade on until it clicks firmly. Lower the arm carefully to avoid cracking the glass.
- Test on a wet screen. Check for even contact and no noise.
Tip: Clean the screen and blade edge with mild glass cleaner to reduce judder.
| Issue | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Streaks or smears | Dirty glass, worn edge, wax residue | Clean glass; replace blades if worn |
| Judder/chatter | Dry glass, wrong angle, contaminated blade | Wet the screen; clean blade; check arm tension |
| Missed areas | Curved screen mismatch, weak arm spring | Try flat/beam style; inspect arm pressure |
| Noisy sweep | Hardened rubber or debris | Clean or replace blade |
Bulbs — Types & Basics
- Halogen: common headlight types include H1, H4 (dual filament), H7, plus various caps for side/indicator/brake.
- HID/Xenon: high-intensity discharge with ballasts/igniters; handle with care.
- LED: used widely for DRL, interior and some headlamps; many are sealed units.
- CAN-bus systems: some cars monitor bulb failure; resistors/compatible parts may be required.
Safety: Lights must work and be the correct colour/brightness. Avoid touching halogen glass with bare fingers.
- One side out: likely a failed bulb or connection.
- Both sides out: check fuses, relays, or a shared feed/earth.
- Intermittent: loose holder, corrosion, or broken wiring.
- Fast indicator flash: usually a blown indicator bulb or load issue.
Inspect the holder for heat damage or green corrosion; clean gently and ensure a snug fit.
- Switch off ignition and lights. Disconnect the battery only if the vehicle procedure requires it.
- Access the rear of the lamp (cover, clip, or wheel-arch flap). Note the orientation before removal.
- Handle halogen bulbs by the base only; if touched, clean the glass with alcohol.
- Ensure the new bulb seats fully and the clip/retainer is secure.
- Test all functions (dip, main, indicators, brake, tail, reverse) after refit.
HID/LED units: Some require specialist parts or full lamp replacement. Follow vehicle guidance.
| Issue | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Bulbs blowing frequently | High voltage spikes, vibration, poor earth | Check charging voltage; inspect mounts/earths |
| Dim headlight | Cloudy lens, poor connection, wrong bulb | Clean lens; check connectors; confirm correct spec |
| Condensation in lamp | Vent blocked or seal leak | Dry naturally; clear vents; inspect seals/caps |
| Warning light on with working bulb | CAN-bus/load sensing | Check for compatible component or wiring fault |
Visibility & Aiming Basics
- Keep windscreen, mirrors and lamps clean inside and out.
- Replace wipers in pairs for even performance.
- Headlight aim should be checked after bulb/lamp changes or front-end repairs.
- Use fog lamps only in poor visibility; switch off when conditions improve.
Wipers & Bulbs – FAQs
Typically every 6–12 months depending on climate and usage. Replace sooner if they smear or judder.
It’s good practice for matched brightness and colour, especially on older halogen bulbs.
Only if suitable for your vehicle and application. Some positions require specific components and may need compatibility with monitoring systems.
Touching halogen glass, vibration, incorrect fitment, or charging system issues can shorten life. Handle carefully and verify system voltages.
Find Parts by Reg
Use the VRM lookup on our homepage.