Wiper Blades- what Bel Air drivers need to know
Wiper blades are one of those car parts that you have to replace, but you never think about it, until it is too late. It is kind of like remembering to bring an umbrella. But when the rain starts to fall and you hit your wipers, suddenly you remember: “Man I need new wiper blades”. So before you get to that stage, take a moment to consider your wiper blades right now. Here is what we think you need to know.
Tests have shown that even the best windshield wipers show signs of deterioration in as little as six months. Therefore why we recommend replacing yours twice a year, or more often if they begin to lose their effectiveness
Wiper blades can be expensive and there are varying performance levels.
Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get good-performing windshield wipers. Some budget-priced models cleared as well as more expensive windshield wipers in some Consumer Reports exhaustive 185-car test.
Signs that your wiper blades are on their way out.
Most blades quickly degrade after a few months of regular use. Depending on the model, deterioration can show up as streaking, smearing of the water or missed areas of wiping. We do not have to tell you that an unclean or obscured windshield is a real safety hazard.
Dangers to waiting too long to change your wiper blades
Besides the obvious threats to your bad weather visibility, it is important not to wait too long to replace a blade, as a torn wiper blade can allow the wiper arm to rub against the glass, possibly ruining the windshield.
To get the most from your existing wipers, inspect them periodically. Lift each wiper arm off the glass and run your finger along its rubber edge. If the rubber is rigid or chipped, or produces nonstop streaking, you need new wipers.
Sometime wiper blades can be cleaned
Sometimes wiper blades just need to be cleaned. Especially if you park under pine trees or near a tree that is spreading tree sap. If the wipers are in decent physical condition but not clearing the windshield effectively, try cleaning them. Simply put windshield washer fluid or mild dish liquid on a damp sponge or rag and wipe debris off the rubber and the windshield where the wiper rests. You might be rewarded with a couple more months of a clear windshield without spending money on replacements.