Well-functioning windshield wipers make your car safer to operate, so be sure yours are replaced as needed. If you’ve noticed wear and tear on the blades or there are streaks left behind on your windows after wiping them, it’s time for new ones. Here are some top tips for buying and caring for your new blades.
Choosing the Best Windshield Wipers Replacements
Standing in the middle of the blade aisle in your local auto parts store may have you scratching your head and wondering, “What windshield wipers do I need?” Knowing your vehicle’s make and model is the first step toward winnowing down your options.
Regardless of what you drive, you’ll generally have three blade designs to choose from. The first is a conventional blade, which was the standard design for many years. These are usually quite affordable but need replacing with greater frequency than other options.
Choosing a beam design will give you more efficient wiping. These blades are built from a single piece of rubber and wrap around the curve of your window for better cleaning. Hybrid blades use a combination of metal and rubber to achieve similar results. Some experts recommend hybrids for wintry conditions, as the metal component makes them stronger for lifting heavy snow or ice. Your climate and your budget are the key factors in determining which replacements are best for your vehicle.
How To Maintain Your Windshield Wipers
When you’re driving through a rainstorm, the last thing you need to deal with is your windshield wipers not working as they should. Although many factors such as climate and frequency of use affect the longevity of your wipers, taking care of them can keep them working well longer.
Clean your blades after poor weather, or at least once a month. Rub them down with washer fluid or soapy water to remove dirt and debris. Give them a final wipe with rubbing alcohol to get rid of lingering residue, then apply a thin coating of rubber protectant to keep the blade supple. Just be sure to let it dry before using your wipers.
Also read Buying The Right Car To Suit Your Lifestyle.
Properly Using Your Windshield Wipers
Ensuring you have the right blades for your vehicle is critical for correct usage. Remember that the driver and passenger side wipers are usually different sizes and can’t be interchanged.
Never use blades on dry windows, as this damages them. If it’s not raining, or only a light drizzle is falling, use the washer button to release fluid to moisten your windows before the wipers engage. Refill your fluid container often so you don’t come up short when you need to clean your windows.
If you can’t recall the last time you changed your windshield wipers, it’s time! Visit a trusted auto parts supplier to find the right sizes for your vehicle, then choose from the conventional, beam, or hybrid options that are available for your ride. Switching out your wipers today will have you driving more safely the next time you get behind the wheel.
