The importance and effectiveness of windshield wipers are often overlooked, but the proper care of this car part is crucial to safe driving. Also, making you’re your windshield wipers wear well can save you a lot of grief, aggravation, time and money along the way. Here’s 4 ways to make this happen.
Make it a habit of wiping off your windshield wiper blades every time you fill your gas tank. Use a paper towel and a little bit of windshield wiper fluid to wipe down each blade. Lift the blade away from the window and wipe from end to end, clearing any dust, dirt or debris. Clean wipers will provide a better, cleaner windshield and will retain their structural integrity better.
Only use your windshield wipers when there is rain, snow or other moisture on your windshield. The moisture makes the wipers effective, whereas running them when both they and the windshield are dry can cause a dirtier windshield and the wipers are more prone to breaking or disintegrating. In dry weather, always squirt windshield wiper solution before or during use, and of course, always keep your windshield wiper reservoir full, you never know when you’re going to need fluid.
Prop your windshield wipers up if you are expecting a lot of snow or ice. Wipers left in their normal position can become compacted with the snow or frozen to the windshield. If you start your wipers in this condition you can burn out the motor. Defrosting the windshield will free the wipers allowing them to clear your windshield without overexertion. In the summer, try to keep wipers in shaded areas as often as possible. Sun can cause the wiper blades to become dried out and frail.
Another way to make sure that your wipers are wearing well is to consistently inspect them. Whether you do this each time you are filling up your gas tank, or perhaps on the first of each month, it’s a good idea to keep tabs of their condition. Bent or broken wipers should be replaced immediately and windshield wiper blades should be replaced at least once a year, especially right before the winter in cold, harsh climates.
Without quality, working windshield wiper blades your view can be obstructed and driving can be frustrating and even dangerous. Keeping an eye on this part of your car can help you repair minor problems quickly and inexpensively while avoiding major problems down the road.
