My Garage

Windshield Wiper Blades Replacement

Windshield Wiper Blades Replacement

It can depend on where you live and drive as to how often you need to replace windshield wiper blades, but even if it doesn't rain a lot where you are your windshield wipers still need to be kept in good condition. The simple truth is wiper blades don't often get the love, respect and attention they need or deserve. They're one of those items on a vehicle that gets taken for granted, or at least they are until they fail. It soon becomes apparent how important windshield wiper blades are when some dirty water splashes up onto your windshield and all the wipers do is smear it and move it around because the rubber is worn and you haven't checked your wipers recently.
 

 

Windshield Wiper Blades Replacement

 

Think about what they do

Most of us think of wipers clearing a windshield when it's raining, but there are plenty of other occasions where their services are required. It could be a dry day, but a truck in front carrying a wet load could see some of that moisture finding its way onto your windshield. Your wipers also clear away snow and ice in the winter, and even in the dry they need to be in good working order to wipe away the water from your windshield washers as they clear dust, sand and other grime to help you see out properly. And on a more unpleasant front, you'll also be pleased they're working as they should when birds deposit what they tend to deposit right in your line of sight.
When we tend to replace

Let's be honest for a moment, and think about when the last time was we replaced our wiper blades, or even when we last checked them? Most people only change them when a vehicle is in for a service and the service centre says they need replacing, or when they don't wipe the windshield properly anymore and it's blindingly obvious they are past their best.
When we should think about replacement

Wiper blades are one of the hardest working parts of a vehicle and also one of the least durable as they're basically made of thin, flexible rubber. As time goes by they tend to crack, become misshapen or lose their flexibility, especially as they are sometimes asked to perform their duty for hours upon end. The general opinion of experts in such matters is that wiper blades should be replaced every six to 12 months, depending on weather conditions and what they're made of. Regular rubber blades inevitably have the shortest lifespan, then there are halogen-hardened rubber blades that last a little longer, and then there are silicone blades that last the longest and could be good for more than a year even under intense use.
The obvious tell-tale sign of blades needing replacing is streaking, but that could just be that a bit of dirt or some ice has got caught in the rubber. Even if you replace them every six to 12 months religiously it's still a good idea to check them every month or so, just to be on the safe side.
For more information about wiper blades, to get yours changed, or for any help you need with car care and car maintenance, don't hesitate to get in touch with us here at Caledon Chrysler.

Categories: Service Tips