How To Tell If It’s Time To Change Your Wiper Blades

In order to stay safe on the road, it is important to be able to see well out of your windshield. If it rains or snows, visibility is particularly low, and your windshield wipers play a crucial role in helping you navigate to your destination. It is often hard to know when to replace the wipers, and sometimes you may not realize that they are not working properly until it is too late. While there are guidelines related to the replacement of windshield wipers, where you live and how you drive can change your personal situation. Here are a few things to look out for when considering when to switch the wipers out. 

Streaking

Are your wipers leaving streaks on your windshield instead of effectively sweeping the rain or snow away? If so, you will know because your visibility is instantly compromised. Try wiping the blades with a paper towel or a cloth to see if you can get them clean. However, if that does not solve the problem, a new set is in your future. 

Damaged

Take a look at your wiper blades every so often. Is the edge even or ragged? Sometimes pieces can break off, particularly if they have been running in a harsh climate. When that happens, you may get streaking on your windshield because the blade is not properly cleaning every section. 

Noisy

Wiper blades wear down over time. At some point, you may start to hear a scratching or chattering sound. This is often the result of metal hitting glass. Do not allow this situation to linger; you don’t want to scratch your windshield, because that is an expensive fix. Get a new pair of wiper blades instead, and the noise should stop.

Ineffective

Wiper blades can pull away from the windshield as they age or if they are damaged. This issue becomes obvious in inclement weather; the blades simply will not take care of certain portions of the windshield. If you notice this happening, get the situation taken care of as soon as possible. 

Rather than wait for an issue to pop up, set up a schedule and change your wiper blades on a regular basis. Take a close look at them at the beginning of the fall and the summer, for example, and swap them out if you notice any issues. Even if everything appears to be okay, make sure you get new wiper blades once a year. Check your manual for specific information on your vehicle, as it may recommend replacing the blades more frequently. If you have trouble remembering to take these steps, add a reminder in your phone so that you get a pop up notification. 

When it comes to staying safe on the road, your wiper blades play a crucial role. Check them frequently to make sure they look okay. Pay attention to any signs indicating that a replacement is necessary. If you have any questions or concerns, visit Ethan’s Honest Automotive to have your car checked out.