Seeing Clearly in Any Weather: The Importance of Wiper Blades

Windshield wipers are a critical part of safe driving. They allow you to see the road ahead of you when driving in inclement weather or when debris clutters up your windshield. When your wipers get worse for wear, Jerry's Auto Repaircan help you get back in gear.

Windshield Wiper 101

The wiper blade system is made up of three components:

• The bases, which are attached to a motor
• An arm or frame for each wiper, which holds the blade and keeps it rigid
• Rubber wiper blades, which do the actual cleaning by sweeping across the windshield
  

When the system is activated using the mechanism attached to your steering wheel, the motor sweeps the arms back and forth across your windshield. The rubber blades make contact with the windshield, pushing water, debris, insects, and other obstructions out of the way so you can see clearly. Your wiper blades need to be replaced regularly to keep your windshield as clear as possible.

Why Are Windshield Wipers Important?

Modern vehicles are legally required to have functioning windshield wipers. But even if they weren’t, your windshield wipers are a critical part of driving your vehicle safely. Without wiper blades, dirt, debris, insects, and inclement weather can collect on your windshield, hindering your ability to see the road properly and avoid hazards.

When Should You Replace Them?

There’s no clear time- or mileage-based rule for when you should replace your windshield wiper blades like there is with components such as tires or oil. Though some technicians will tell you to change them once or twice a year, a variety of factors can shorten or prolong the lifespan of your wiper blades.

Ideally, windshield wiper maintenance should be based on performance. When your wiper blades stop clearing your windshield as well as they should, it might be time to swap them out at Jerry's Auto Repair. Some forms of damage are more obvious, while others may take some observation.

Physical Damage

Obviously, if something breaks, such as the windshield wiper arms, or if the rubber wiper blades start to tear off, it’s time for a replacement. Similarly, if you notice any cracking in the rubber or the wiper blade frame is bent or damaged, even if it isn't broken, a replacement is also in order. Any amount of physical damage to the wipers can hinder their ability to clean your windshield correctly.

Wiper Blade Chatter

Squeaking, chattering, or vibrating from your windshield wipers may seem more annoying than dangerous. However, these are early signs that the rubber wiper blades are degrading. Your blades should glide smoothly. If they don't, it not only indicates existing damage, it also means they’re getting further damage from the friction against your windshield. It won’t be long before they start showing more obvious signs like streaking.

Wiper Blade Streaking

If you notice your wiper blade smearing or streaking your windshield, it might be time for a swap. Streaking indicates damage to the blades, even if it’s not clearly visible. Your wipers should totally clear your windshield to give you the clearest view of the road ahead. Smears or streaks blur your view, creating potential hazards.

Missed Spots

If your wiper blades are leaving wet spots or missing entire sections of your windshield, that’s a clear sign it’s time for a replacement. This may mean the rubber is chipped or torn, or it may just not be making contact with the windshield due to warping or bending. Either way, they’re not cleaning properly, and that means it’s time for them to go.

What Causes Wipers To Degrade?

Though some damage is bound to occur naturally as your wipers are used, external factors can also cause them to break down faster. If you live in an area that’s very hot or dry, for example, the lack of moisture can make the rubber blades brittle and cause them to crack or tear more quickly.

Exposure to UV light also degrades the rubber more quickly, so if your vehicle is exposed to a lot of sunlight, the wipers may need to be replaced more often. Covering your windshield or parking in a garage or shelter can help reduce this damage. The experts at Jerry's Auto Repair can recommend ways to prevent external damage and keep your wipers working efficiently for longer.

What Type of Wiper Do You Need?

Not all wipers are the same. The size of the wiper blade replacement you need will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. There are also a few different wiper blade types. The experts at Jerry's Auto Repair can ensure you’re getting exactly the right wiper blades for your needs.

Traditional Wipers

These are the most common type. They feature a bowed arm or frame and a rubber blade that is pressed against the windshield using a series of pressure points.

Beam-Style Wipers

This newer style of wiper has the rubber blade attached fully to the arm, which exerts even pressure across the windshield. This keeps the blade in maximum contact with the windshield. This type is also more aerodynamic.

Weather-Specific Wipers

Rain-repellent wipers include a coating of water repellent designed to better clear rain from your windshield. Winter wiper blades include a rubber housing that keeps snow and sleet from making contact with your blades, helping them last longer. All-season wipers are optimized to clean your windshield in any weather, a good choice if the seasons change quickly or without warning where you live.

Head to Jerry's Auto Repair for Regular Wiper Blade Maintenance

Jerry's Auto Repair has provided quick and comfortable vehicle maintenance since 1977. Wiper blade installation can be confusing, so ask our experts to help you choose the best wiper blade replacements for your vehicle and relax while we get them safely secured on your windshield.

Contact us at (509) 334-7215 or fill out our online form for an appointment. Or feel free to stop by our shop at 1260 South Grand Avenue, Pullman, WA 99163 for a consultation. We’ll get you the best service at unbeatable prices so you can get safely on the road again.