Vertical Smudge on the Windshield

[Jack]

I’ve had my Vibe for less than 4 months and since it’s been relatively dry, I haven’t had too many chances to use my wipers. But when I did, I noticed that there is a vertical smudge on my front windshield corresponding to the farthest position where the right front wiper reaches. In other words, this smudge is ‘imprinted’ by the wiper. When it’s not raining, I don’t really see it, but when it rains, suddenly the smudge becomes clearly visible—it appears as though a greasy imprint ran across my windshield. Since the smudge is about ¼ inch wide and appears just in front of my eyes, it is really bothersome. What’s worse, raindrops tend to quickly collect along this smudge and turn into a continuous ‘stream’, making my visibility even worse. When I first noticed this occurring a couple of weeks ago, I thought it was because of some greasy deposits, so I thoroughly washed the wipers with and the windshield and then applied “Rain Away”, which I have successfully used on my other cars for over 10 years. Unfortunately, when it rained tonight, the smudge appeared immediately and it was really very uncomfortable trying to see through it. I’m really puzzled why it’s happening, as I had two other cars and I had no such problems. I’d appreciate any help and comments, as I’d like to get rid of this glitch as soon as possible. Thanks!

[jdf]

I get the same thing. Bothers me, but I guess not as much as you!! I figure a good cleaner of some sort will fix it when I get around to it!

[Vibe]

Take some rubbing acohol and clean the windshield and CLEAN the wiper blades as well.You probably have a stubborn grease residue on the wiper or windshield. James

[Vibe Rater]

I think they put a 'conditioner' on the wipers to enhance their effectiveness. That's probably what you're seeing as the conditioner wears off. I doubt the windshield is damaged permanently. Whatever you use to strip the residue from the windshield, be very careful it doesn't drip or run down onto the plastic cowel top or the paint. It may stain or damage it, and this wouldn't be a warranty item.

[cds22]

I had this problem too. Unfortunately when I tried to clean it off there must have been dirt on my cloth or something because now I have a bunch of scratches instead! Think I'll take it to a glass shop and see what they can do.Perhaps it's a good idea to just ditch those blades that came with the car and buy some new ones?