With their streaking, chattering, and squeaking your windshield wipers are sending you a message! Although it may not be top of your list, wiper blades need replacing to perform their best and to keep you driving safely.
It’s true that because of the pandemic we’ve been driving our cars less, but windshield wipers are made of rubber which is degradable and become less effective over time.
And don't think that just because we live in “72 and sunny” San Diego without much rain that your wiper blades will last longer. In fact, heat and lack of moisture can damage the blades even if you never turn them on.
It’s recommended that you change your wiper blades every 6 - 12 months.
You should get into the habit of checking your wipers regularly and know what signs to look out for as they begin to wear.
- Cracked or Broken Rubber: When you look closely at your wiper blades, do you notice that the rubber is one, smooth piece, or is it cracked, split, or broken-off in places? If you see any imperfections in the rubber that means they aren’t doing their job anymore.
- Streaking: When water streaks across the windshield, this means the edge has become rounded due to wear and is no longer sharp. Water smearing across the windshield results in cloudy and impaired visibility and should be addressed quickly.
- Squeaking: Remember the old country and western song, “Those windshield wipers slappin' out a tempo, keepin' perfect rhythm with the song on the radio”? It’s a good oldie, but if your blades are squeaking or don’t move quietly across the windshield, they need to go.
- Chattering: Do the blades seem to hop across the windshield or vibrate when they make a pass? If the blades aren’t coming into contact with the entire windshield or if they are skipping over some spots, you need new ones.
- Bent Frames: The metal part of your wipers can get bent or damaged for all sorts of reasons. Rough handling of the wiper blades when you clean them can bend the frames or damage the clips, as can some car washes. If you notice this, it’s time to replace them.
Your windshield wipers are essential for driving safely because they either improve or inhibit visibility. They’re one of the easiest parts of your car to maintain. DRIVE AutoCare’s team of ASE Master Technicians know how to solve these problems and more!
Schedule an appointment today and we'll replace your wipers quickly and professionally!