Your car’s wipers are crucial to keep you safe when driving through adverse weather conditions. However, without proper care, wiper blades can begin to degrade over time. So how do you prolong the lifespan of your wipers?
The best way to prolong the life of your wiper blades is to inspect and clean them every two or three months. You should also apply a rubber protector on your wipers and park your car in the shade to avoid damage from sunlight.
In this article, we’ll dig deeper into how you can keep your wiper blades running for a long time.
1. Inspect your wipers every month
Windshield wipers keep your field of vision clear during rain and snow, making it easier to avoid accidents. However, if the blades become damaged or worn out, they can leave streaks that obscure your vision. For this reason, it’s crucial to perform an inspection every month and replace your wipers if necessary.
Here are some signs that your windshield wipers need to be replaced:
- Worn-out or damaged rubber
- Streaks on the windshield
- Excessive noise when the wipers are on
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your windshield wipers. By replacing the worn-out components, you can prolong the lifespan of the blades.
2. Apply a rubber protector
Applying a rubber protectant can help the wiper blades last longer and perform better. An effective protectant creates a barrier between the metal and the rubber, preventing the metal from rusting and the rubber from drying out. It also helps lower the wiper blades’ freezing point during winter.
3. Park in the shade whenever possible
Parking in direct sunlight is the quickest way to damage your windshield wipers. The heat can cause the rubber to dry out and crack, reducing its effectiveness and shortening your wiper’s lifespan. The best way to protect your car from heat damage is to park in the shade whenever possible. If you don’t have access to such a spot, you can use a reflective windshield cover.
4. Clean your windshield and wiper blades regularly
It’s crucial to clean your windshield every 90 days to prevent the accumulation of dirt over time. This debris can reduce the effectiveness of your wipers and degrade their performance. The easiest way to clean your car wipers is by using window cleaner and scrubbing with a soft, clean cloth.
Summary
Windshield wipers are an essential safety feature that can get damaged and worn out over time. When they’re constantly exposed to direct sunlight and not cleaned regularly, they are more prone to damage.
To help extend their lifespan and ensure your safety, it’s crucial to inspect them regularly and replace them if necessary.