If Your Wipers Are Screeching Against Your Windshield, Read This Guide

When you’re driving in the rain and switch on your windshield wipers, do you wince at the screeching sound they make across the glass? If your wipers aren’t in the best condition, they’re doing more than just making an annoying sound. In this blog, the Thompson Sales team offers up some basic vehicle maintenance that can go a long way to making your rainy road trips safer.

Why Do Windshield Wipers Degrade?

There are a few signs to look for when it comes to knowing it’s time to get new wiper blades. You can look closely at the rubber blades and see if they’re split or cracked. Worn out wipers will have trouble clearing rain away and often leave streaks on the glass. They’ll also make a lot of noise when you turn them on because they’re no longer swiping smoothly.

The main reason that wipers get like this is simply the wear and tear from long-term use. Even though they’re being used on a smooth glass surface, eventually the rubber will be worn away and damaged. The more you have to use them, the sooner they’ll wear out. Changes in weather can also contribute to damage, with high and low temperature changes causing the rubber to expand, contract, and eventually split.

How Often Should I Change My Windshield Wipers?

Fully functioning windshield wipers are important to your safety when you’re driving. Rain and moisture will obstruct your view, making it harder to see when you’re on the road. Even if your well-worn wipers are still working well enough to wipe away water or debris, they’ll make streaks on the glass and awful noises that are distracting. To make sure you have effective wipers that are in good condition, you should replace the rubber blades every six months to twelve months, depending on how they’re generally working.

How Do I Replace Wiper Blades?

If it’s time to replace your wiper blades, you should first measure your wipers or check your owner’s manual so you get the right size. Lift the wipers off the windshield and find the tab that releases the blade. Press the tab and slide the blade off the arm.

Slide the new blades in place (they usually click once they’re secure). Lower the arms back to their normal position, then run them a couple of times to make sure they work. You’ll find a variety of blades at stores that sell auto parts or products, or you can search online.

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