Your car’s windscreen wipers are often overlooked. That is, until bad weather strikes. Whether it’s pouring rain, dirt splashing onto your windshield, or even frost, wipers play an important role in keeping your view clear so you can safely get to where you need to be.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy tips to maintain your car’s windscreen wipers to keep them in top condition, and we’ll explain how to replace them when it’s time.
How to Maintain Your Windshield Wipers to Last Longer
Before we look at how to change your windscreen wipers, let’s dive into a few simple maintenance tips that will extend the life of your wiper and save you money and bigger problems later on.
Clean Your Windshield Regularly
One of the easiest ways to help your windscreen wiper blades last longer is by keeping your windshield clean. Dirt and grime can build up over time, which not only affects your view but also wears down the wiper blades.
Before you use your wipers, give your windshield a good clean with glass cleaner and a soft cloth. This will also prevent the blades from dragging debris across the glass, which creates streaks and smears.
Check Your Wiper Blades Often
South Africa’s weather conditions can be tough on wipers. Both hot weather and heavy rains put extra strain on them. Over time, this can cause the rubber on the blades to crack or wear out.
To keep them in good shape, check the blades regularly for signs of damage like cracks, tears, or stiffness. If they’re leaving streaks or not clearing the windshield properly, it’s probably time to replace them.
Top Up Your Washer Fluid
Running out of washer fluid can leave you in a tricky situation, especially when your windshield is dirty and you need a clear view. Making sure your washer fluid is topped up helps you easily get rid of dirt, bugs, and grime without scratching the glass.
If you’re in an area where the temperature dips to freezing point, it’s a good idea to use a fluid with antifreeze properties.
Use an Ice Scraper in Cold Weather
If you live in an area that gets frosty, avoid the temptation to use your wipers to clear ice from your windshield, as this can severely damage the rubber on the blades. Instead, use an ice scraper to remove frost and ice before using your wipers.
Keep Your Wipers in a Good Condition During Hot Weather
Extreme heat can be just as tough on wiper blades as the cold. The sun’s UV rays can dry out the rubber, causing it to crack or warp. To prevent this, always try to park your car under cover or in the shade.
Use Proper Wiper Care Products
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your wipers, use a cleaner made specifically for wiper blades, rubbing alcohol, or simply water with a little bit of dish soap.
Keep an Eye on Streaks and Smears
If your wipers are leaving streaks or smears across the windshield, it’s a sign that the blades are either dirty or worn out. You can clean the blades with a damp cloth and a cleaning agent to remove any dirt. If that doesn’t solve the problem, it’s likely time to replace them.
Replace Worn-Out Blades
If your wiper blades are making a noise, leaving streaks, or skipping across the windshield, they’re not working as they should. It’s important to replace them before they start creating more problems.
Windscreen wipers don’t last forever, and driving with worn-out blades can make it harder to see in bad weather, putting you at risk on the road. Change them regularly so you can stay safe and avoid any unpleasant surprises when it starts to rain.
How Often Should I Replace My Windscreen Wiper Blades?
Depending on how much you use them and the weather conditions in your area, you should aim to replace your windscreen wiper blades every six months to a year. If they’re squeaking, skipping, or leaving streaks, it’s a sign they’re worn out and that you need new ones.
How to Change Your Windshield Wipers
You can buy new wiper blades at most auto parts stores or service centres. Installing them is usually quick and easy, and it can make a big difference when driving in bad weather.
Follow this simple step-by-step guide when you need to replace your worn-out windscreen wipers.
1. Buy the Right Wipers
You need to buy the correct replacement wipers for your car. Either check your car’s manual or ask for assistance at an auto parts shop. Most stores can help you find the right size based on your car’s make and model.
2. Lift the Wiper Arms
Lift the wiper arms away from the windshield. They should stay upright once lifted, but be careful as they can snap back down, and you don’t want them to damage your windshield.
3. Remove the Old Wipers
Look at where the wiper blade is connected to the wiper arm. There’s usually a small tab or clip that holds the wiper in place. Press it and slide the old wiper blade downwards (toward the base of the arm) to remove it. Once the blade is free, gently pull it off the arm.
4. Attach the New Wipers
Take your new wiper blade and line it up with the wiper arm. Slide it into the hook or slot at the end of the arm until you hear it click into place. This sound tells you it’s secure.
5. Lower the Wiper Arms
Carefully lower the wiper arms back onto the windshield. Avoid letting them snap down, as this can crack the glass.
6. Test the Wipers
Turn on your car and test the new wipers to make sure they’re working smoothly. If they’re moving cleanly across the windshield and leaving no streaks, you’re good to go.
Stay Safe on the Road
Regularly checking and cleaning your car’s wipers can be key to staying safe on the road when bad weather strikes. And remember, replacing windshield wipers is quick and easy, and it can make a massive difference in visibility during bad weather.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information on how to change and maintain windscreen wipers. However, always do your independent research. Also, check with your car insurance provider before you fix a problem with your car, as they often ask you to use their list of approved repairers.
Get a quote for affordable Comprehensive car insurance with Prime South Africa for fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and top-tier service. T&Cs apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
