When Should You Replace Your Wiper Blades?
It’s easy to forget about your car’s windscreen wipers. Especially during the summer when they can go for weeks without use. But they’re one of your car’s most important safety features. If your windscreen wipers aren’t working, or the wiper blades need replacing, it can hugely impact your view of the road. And this can have serious safety repercussions. So, what do you need to know about replacing your windscreen wiper blades?
When Do You Need to Replace Your Windscreen Wiper Bladess?
Why are fully functional wiper blades so important?
There are a couple of reasons why you should care about the state of your windscreen wipers. Firstly, as already mentioned, if your wipers aren’t fully working, it can decrease visibility for you when driving. This means that you’re putting yourself and other drivers at risk. Faulty wipers can also cause lasting damage to your windscreen – which will be a lot more expensive to replace than a couple of wiper blades. And faulty wipers can also lead to an MOT fail. In order to pass its MOT, your car’s wipers must work well enough to clear the windscreen. If not, it’s going to be a fail.
How long should wiper blades last?
The life span of wiper blades can depend upon a number of factors. Including the quality of the blade. How much you use them. And where you live. Because if you live in a sandy or dusty area, the excess dirt on your windshield can increase the rate at which your wiper blades deteriorate. But as a general rule, most people will need to replace their wiper blades between every six to 12 months.
What makes wiper blades deteriorate?
Time and use are the main reasons for wiper blade failure. Hot weather can dry them out and lead to cracking. Grime can make the surfaces degrade. Cold weather can make wiper blades stiffen and become more brittle. And every use makes them deteriorate slightly.
What can you do to make your windscreen wiper blades last longer?
The main things you can do improve the life span and performance of your wiper blades are:
- Never use your wipers on a dry screen
- Make sure that you always have washer fluid in your car
- And in winter, make sure that you scrape off any ice on your windscreen before using your wipers.
What are the signs that your windscreen wipers need to be replaced?
Most people will realise that their wiper blades need to be replaced when they notice a reduction in performance. This usually means that they leave streaks or smears on the windscreen rather than a clean finish. But you may also notice that the blades seem to be skipping as they move across the screen. Or making a squealing sound when operating.
Ensuring that your windscreen wipers are intact and fully functional is one of the most frequent pieces of maintenance that any car owner will perform. They don’t cost much. They are easy to install. But it’s really important not to ignore it when your wiper blades are struggling. Because it can have a real impact on your safety.
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