United Tire and Service News

When we think about car maintenance, we might often overlook windshield wipers. They're right in front of our eyes, yet fall off our radar from time to time. They don't last forever, and can become a safety hazard when they're worn—so what do you need to know about when and how to replace them?

 

The most obvious sign of needing to replace your wiper blades are streaks of rain across the windshield while the wiper blades are operating. Some drivers use products that can eliminate the streaks for a brief period. But if they continue, wiper blade replacement is the only solution.

 

Other signs include: 

Regardless of the above signs, wiper blades should be replaced every six months, even if the vehicle isn't used that often. 

 

Wiper blades are very specific to each vehicle based on the manufacturers’ specifications for size and length. For most vehicles, the driver's side wiper blade is the same length as the passenger's side, but others are vastly different. Either way, the size of the blade must have a fitment that is proper to clear the majority of the windshield without coming in contact with the windshield frame.  

 

The easiest way to determine the size required for your vehicle is to check the owner's manual. Most parts stores also have an easy-to-use application that will provide the information.  

 

While replacing windshield wiper blades can be a do-it-yourself task by drivers who are confident in their mechanical abilities, it should be done by someone who can ensure the replacement is completed with precise efficacy. Failing to replace them correctly could result in a malfunctioning wiper blade and cause windshield damage or loss of driving visibility, without any warning.  

 

The wiper blade assembly consists of three main parts: a lower wiper arm, the metal brackets, and the rubber compound.   

 

Before the wiper blade installation, our technician inspects the quality level of all three parts, particularly the lower arm and brackets. The installation is conducted by first removing the old wiper blade, which is attached to the metal arm with a small plastic stopper. (Some vehicles have metal pins.) The stopper is pressed to unhook the blade from the metal arm. Then, the new blade is attached to the wiper arm and securely fastened with the stopper. 

 

Windshield wiper blades aren’t high priority replacement parts by any means; however, for such a small part, they play an extremely important role in your safety. Therefore, procrastination is not recommended. They are vital during inclement weather, and without them, it would be impossible to drive at those times. Wiper blades also have a significant impact on your visibility between the time needing to remove rain, hail, and snow. They remove bugs and debris from the windshield. Those elements can obstruct your view and make it much more difficult to drive safely.

 

If you would like more information about wiper blade replacement, reach out to any of our 13 independent locations. If your vehicle requires windshield wiper replacement, you can schedule your appointment online.