Care Tips: Making Your Wipers Work for You
Windshield wipers are inexpensive and quite plain but they play a role in keeping you safe. Because they’re on the front line between you and the elements, it’s important to take care of your wipers and keep them in good shape .
Always check your wipers for damage. Periodically check your wipers, looking for damage especially the rubber on the blades. They may have tears, cracks or deformity from wear. The rubber is the part that wears down the fastest. You have to replace them as soon as possible if you note some damage, if any portion of rubber is missing from the blade, it’s time to replace them. or your wipers may not be able to do their function. Replace also if the edge of the blade have deformed, which can compromise the blade’s ability to make contact with the glass.
Never use your wipers if your windshield is dry. They are meant to be used on a wet surface. If they are used on dry surface they can cause a lot of friction and drag and cause them to wear down fast, as well as cause damage to the rubber. Spray wiper fluid first if you need to use the wipers to clear your windshield of pollen or some other debris.
If your windshield is dirty, don’t use them. Using wipers on a dirty windshield can damage the blades and may leave marks or scratches on the glass. Hardened debris and sticky spots can damage the blades. Scrub your windshield down with the squeegees at the gas station or a sponge at home to keep it clean.
If there’s ice or frost on the glass, don’t scrape it off with the wiper. It’s tempting but this can quickly and permanently damage the blades. Instead, use a ice scraper (or an old credit card) to remove the frost or ice, then you can use the wipers to sweep the remains away provided the glass is wet.
Routinely replace your wipers. Windshield wipers, like any other part on the car, will need to be replaced on a regular basis because they wear down over time and with use. Typically change them twice a year unless you put them through a lot of wear and tear. If there is streaking or they are making squeaking noises, then these are signs that you need a replacement.
Looking After Wipers in Seattle
Your windshield wipers make up a part of your car maintenance program at Greenwood Collision. We don’t neglect looking at the littlest of things when checking. Experience this in Seattle.