i can just barely get my finger nail to catch. looks like an old vinyl record , about an inch wide of little scratches and a couple thicker ones through the entire travel length of the wiper. and i only have basic liability with no glass coverage, so insurance helping me is out of the question. these are some good ideas you guys got, i will try the buffing, and if it distorts , then i will wait til tax return time and get the glass replaced.