How Often Should You Change Your Wiper Blades?

Close shot of a wet windscreen wiper blade wipping a car's window with a blue sky with clouds on the background

 

Bad weather can happen at any time. And when it does, your windshield wiper blades suddenly become essential parts of your car. But if they aren’t in good condition, you could find driving safely challenging. In addition, your wiper blades can help you clean a dirty windshield and remove condensation from the outside. Despite the value of good wiper blades, many people don’t pay much attention to them. Learn more about how often you should change your wiper blades.

To Every Season There Is a Wiper

No matter where you live, there is more than one season. And in Queensbury, it might even feel like you encounter more than one season in a day. But there are different types of wiper blades for the different seasons, including wipers designed for winter. In fact, winter wiper blades use a more durable composite rubber that can handle freezing ice and snow. However, by the end of the season, these wiper blades may not be working at their best.

The Summer Sun on Your Blades

If you park your car outside or spend a lot of time in the warm summer sun, that can be bad for your wiper blades. The UV rays can damage the rubber of your windshield wiper blades and cause them to be less effective. However, many people don’t discover there’s a problem until a sudden rainstorm hits. Then, it can be challenging to see out of the windshield with rain streaming everywhere.

When to Change Your Wiper Blades

Experts recommend that you change your wiper blades at least twice a year. In fact, many people change their blades with each season. You’ll know you’re overdue for a wiper change if you see streaking or skipping when you run them. In addition, if the frame is bent or you see splitting on the rubber, it is time to upgrade. It’s a good habit to check and change your blades at the end of summer and again at the end of winter.

If you want to get more life out of your blades, there are a few things you can do. If you have been using them often, check the wiper fluid reserve and refill it when it is low. Then, look at the blades and gently wipe them clean if there is debris. In addition, try to keep your windshield clean so you are not using the blades often for dirt. Finally, avoid using your wiper blades to try to remove ice. A scraper is a better tool for that.

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Your Partner in Car Maintenance

Some people like to change their own blades. But if you are unsure how to do it, a service technician can help. At Della Auto Group in Queensbury, New York, we have service technicians who can ensure your car is running its best no matter what the weather is. Make an appointment today to make sure your vehicle is ready for any season.

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