Windshield wipers are something that you might take for granted, but they’re an indispensable part of your car’s daily operation. We’ve put together this short list of ways you can keep your windshield wipers in top working order.
Look for Wear and Tear
Inspect your windshield wipers regularly for signs of excess wear. This might include a broken frame or corroded joint, as well as cracks and tears in the rubber squeegee part of the blade. Run your finger along the edge of the rubber to determine if parts of it have become rounded or chipped, which can have an effect on the wiper’s ability to maintain contact with the windshield. If you discover significant damage to the wipers, consider replacing them right away.
Replace Wipers Regularly
Even if there’s no visible wear on your windshield wipers, you should still replace them regularly. Your personal maintenance schedule might depend on how much you drive or the climate in which you live, but you can still follow general replacement guidelines. Most experts suggest you replace your windshield wipers twice per year: once at the end of summer and again at the end of winter. This allows your wipers to stay in their best condition during the winter when your car might be subject to the stresses of snow, ice, and road salt.
Perform Basic Maintenance
Keeping your windshield wipers in good condition isn’t just about replacing them when they wear out. You should also be maintaining them regularly. Luckily, this is easy to do. Inspect your blades periodically and wipe them with a clean cloth to remove accumulated debris. You can also use a damp cloth with vinegar to make sure they are clean. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, consider applying a rubber-protecting solution to your windshield wipers. This will help to prevent them from becoming damaged in the first place.
Use the Right Windshield Washer Fluid
You may have come across recipes online for homemade windshield washer fluid. Some drivers in climates that don’t experience freezing temperatures are even able to use plain water to keep their windshields clean. But a properly formulated windshield washer fluid contains cleaning solvents designed specifically to remove bugs, dirt, bird droppings, and other accumulated debris. Windshield washer fluid is also much more effective on ice, and using a cheap or homemade substitute can cause your wiper blades to smear your windshield. We recommend using a tried-and-true commercial formula.
Use the Right Blades
You’ve probably noticed that windshield wipers are inexpensive, but sometimes saving even a few extra dollars can be tempting. Before opting for off-brand wipers, however, you should make sure that you are choosing a product that’s compatible with your car. If your wiper blades aren’t exactly the right size, they may be unable to keep the windshield clean.
There’s more to the topic of windshield wipers than just flicking a switch when you need to use them. By following these simple tips, you can always keep your blades in good condition.
Photo by Mr ATM | Licensed under cc BY 2.0
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