Windshield Wiper Replacements Are Important: Here’s Why

Windshield Wiper Replacements Are Important: Here’s Why

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Living in the Northeastern region of the United States, we are no stranger to rain. Not just rain, a lot of rain. Flash floods, micro bursts, and series of rain for days. When it rains, it pours and because of that, we use our windshield wiper blades often. You probably already know how important it is to get things like oil changes and tire rotations done, regularly. However, do you know how important it is to replace your windshield wipers? This is actually an important part of caring for a vehicle.

 

How Often Should Wiper Blades Be Replaced?

Wiper blades should be replaced every six months or as soon as you notice a difference in driving visibility. They are designed to move over your windshield surface in a smooth, simple motion. When wiper blades no longer make proper contact with the windshield surface, they can begin to squeak, smear, or streak reducing driving visibility. Unfortunately, blades damaged or broken will not work as designed.

 

How Do You Know The Blades Need Changed?

Other than the sound of the blades and wipe quality, here are a few ways to inspect the wiper blades for replacement:

• Check squeegee wiping edges. If the edges are worn, this can prevent the wiper blade from making strong contact with the windshield and reduces wipe quality.
• Visible cracks, tears, and missing pieces in the rubber squeegee’s edge.
• Flex rubber squeegee back and forth to see if it is still flexible. Aged squeegees will have difficulty conforming to the shape of your windshield and create streaks.
• Tug or lightly pull wiper blade to ensure has been securely installed on the wiper arm.
  Check that squeegee is secure in the wiper blade frame is in place.

 

Why Do Wiper Blades Deteriorate Quickly?

Wiper blades deteriorate due to many environmental factors including:
Sun: Ultraviolet light and ozone deterioration
Oil: Car waxes and exhaust hold rubber-deteriorating oil
Airborne debris: Sand, mud and dust carried in the wind

Visibility is fundamental to safe driving. Although drivers depend on their vehicles’ wiper blades to clear away rain, sleet and snow, many wait to replace them until they need them the most. Remembering to maintain wiper blades regularly can maximize visibility, efficiency and reliability. Winter is just around the corner, do not wait until you need your wipers during the first frosting and you have missing rubber pieces on the squeegee.

 

Having doubts about your current wiper blades’ abilities?

If you notice you’re having trouble clearing water from your windshield, it’s time to have your blades replaced. This is a quick and simple process, contact our service center, here. We will be happy to help you. Furthermore, by bringing your vehicle to Jim Shorkey Auto Group for all your service and repair needs, even replacing wiper blades, you can count on a continued driving experience unlike any other – for every single mile of your lease or ownership.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »