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Replace Your Wipers, Treasure Valley!
Windshield wipers are an essential safety feature of any vehicle. They ensure clear visibility during inclement weather conditions, such as rain and snow, and are crucial for safe driving. However, it’s important to note that wiper blades are not designed to last forever and require regular maintenance to keep them in good working condition. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs that it’s time to replace your wipers and provide some tips for maintaining them.
Streaking Or Smearing Is A Clear Indicator
The first sign that it’s time to replace your wiper blades is streaking or smearing on the windshield. This can be caused by worn-out rubber or damage to the blade, which prevents it from making proper contact with the windshield. Streaks or smears can also be caused by a buildup of dirt or debris on the wiper blade. If your wiper blades leave streaks or smears on the glass, they no longer function as they should.
Watch For Skipping or Chattering
Skipping or chattering is another sign that your wiper blades must be replaced. If your wiper blades are skipping or chattering across the windshield, it’s a sign that they’re no longer making even contact with the glass. This can be caused by several factors, including worn-out rubber, damage to the blade, or a bent wiper arm. Skipping or chattering can also be caused by ice or snow buildup on the windshield, which can cause the wiper blades to lose traction.
Listen For Squeaking or Squealing
Squeaking or squealing is another sign that your wiper blades are malfunctioning. This can be caused by various factors, including worn-out rubber, damage to the blade, or a loose wiper arm. Squeaking or squealing can also be caused by a buildup of dirt or debris on the wiper blade. If your wiper blades make a squeaking or squealing noise when in use, it’s a sign that they’re not making proper contact with the windshield.
Watch For Evenness
Uneven wear on your wiper blades is another sign that they must be replaced. If your wiper blades are wearing unevenly, it’s a sign that they’re not making proper contact with the windshield. This can be caused by various factors, including damage to the blade, a bent wiper arm, or a buildup of dirt or debris on the wiper blade. Uneven wear can also be caused by using the wiper blades on a dry windshield, which can cause the rubber to become damaged.
Replace Yearly Regardless
In addition to these signs, it’s important to note that wiper blades should be replaced regularly, even if there are no visible signs of wear and tear. Most experts recommend replacing your wiper blades every six months to a year, depending on your driving habits and climate. This will ensure that your wiper blades are always functioning correctly and provide clear road visibility.
You don’t want the moment your wipers stop working to be during a big storm–so be cognizant of when you got your wipers last replaced.
Wiper Blade Maintenance
To maintain your wiper blades, keeping them clean and free of debris is essential. You can do this by wiping them down with a damp cloth or using a mild cleaner to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated on the blade. You should also ensure the wiper arm and blade are correctly aligned. A misaligned wiper blade can cause streaking and smearing on the windshield.
We Can Replace Your Wipers at Dowdy Automotive
In conclusion, maintaining your wiper blades is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that should not be overlooked. By paying attention to the signs of wear and tear on your wiper blades and replacing them regularly, you can ensure that they function correctly and provide clear visibility on the road. Don’t wait until it’s too late – replace your wiper blades at the first sign of trouble, and stay safe on the road!
Dowdy’s Automotive, with multiple locations in the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Ontario), is here to help you with vehicle maintenance and repair! Please be sure to schedule a service appointment. Check out the website or Like our Facebook page for updates and news. Schedule a time to drop off your car for service. The Dowdy’s Automotive team is always happy to serve.