Changing windscreen wiper blades is an important aspect of owning a vehicle. Sadly, it is often overlooked. We generally take our windscreen wipers for granted. They do, however, offer a valuable contribution to your vehicle’s safety as well as your own. Like any aspect of your vehicle, windscreen wipers are well built and durable but do not last forever. Moreover, they are susceptible to damage, wear and tear over time. Today we are taking a brief look at windscreen wipers: determining how often you should be changing windscreen wiper blades. 

Windscreen wipers are often overlooked, but they are paramount to your safety as well as any one in the car. A driver relies on functioning windscreen wipers, as well as high quality screen wash, to clear debris and dirt from the windscreen. They are also vitally important when the weather takes a turn, as they will help the driver to successfully clear the windshield of rain, snow or hail. 

 

Now we understand the importance of windscreen wiper blades, we can better understand the need for proper maintenance. Like anything in or on your car, your windscreen wiper blades are susceptible to damage and failure over time. 

 

As a general rule, it is recommended that you change your wiper blades, routinely, every 12 months. However, you may have to change them earlier than that. If you notice that your wiper blades are streaking, skipping, splitting, or squeaking, it is definitely time for a change. 

 

Doing so on a yearly basis will help to retain maximum visibility through your windshield. Moreover if your wiper blades work insufficiently or are worn/ old, your car can actually fail its MOT. Changing your windscreen wiper blades semi-regularly is something you should introduce into your vehicle maintenance routine. 

Most vehicle owners are always pleased when they find out that they can complete a maintenance job without the help of a mechanic. Removing windshield wipers and fitting new windscreen wiper blades is easy. To remove your wipers, you need to gently pull the arm away from the windscreen. There should be a small tab under the wiper where it meets the arm. Press this tab and the wiper blade should slide off the arm easily. 

 

For fitting new windscreen wiper blades, you need to confirm that the hooks align with the old blade. If they do, you should be able to easily attach the new blade to the arm. A clicking sound will signify it has attached properly, and you are ready to go. Test your new windscreen blades by engaging your vehicle’s wipers. Quickly monitor the blades to ensure they are working correctly and do not come loose. 

Changing your windscreen wiper blades on a regular basis is important. It guarantees the safety of your vehicle and, subsequently, yourself. We at Barrett Lee offer a wealth of vehicle repair and maintenance services. For more information on how we can help you, give us a call on 01787 540 110.