Windshield wipers are one of your vehicle's first lines of defense against weather and debris blocking a clear view of the road. They are one of the most important parts of the car, but their maintenance is often overlooked.
The modern version of windshield wipers was developed by Mary Anderson in 1903, although several versions have been developed dating back to 1896. After Anderson patented his "window cleaning device," they quickly gained popularity. In 1915 more vehicles were equipped with windshield wipers than without.
In 1916 the windscreen wiper device was introduced as standard equipment.
Although wiper blades are inexpensive to replace compared to other parts on your car, it is important to take care of them.
What types of windshield wipers are there?
There are two main forms of wiper blades, conventional and beam. Traditional blades are straighter than bar blades and less expensive, but they only make contact with the windshield at six or eight points, according to Firestone Complete Auto Care.
The additional curvature of the carrier sheet improves its ability to conform to the curvature of your windshield. This allows the blades to apply more pressure for a cleaner line of sight. These blades are also more resistant to wind and less likely to fly off the windshield at high speeds.
There are also heavy-duty wiper blades, often referred to as "winter wiper blades," that can withstand the harsh conditions of winter climates.
How often should wiper blades be changed?
Wiper blades should be replaced every six months or whenever you notice a difference in their performance. The main thing to look out for is any cracks, stains or streaks as they can affect your vision while driving. If you hear the wipers, it's time for a new set.
What are the best ways to determine the correct wiper blade replacement?
Every car has a manufacturer's recommended wiper blade size that is specific to make, model and year. Choosing the correct replacement blade size for your particular vehicle is critical to ensuring they perform at their best.
Some vehicles have two blades of different sizes, it is important that the blade is the most effective.
By consulting your owner's manual, looking at your local auto parts store's wiper blade size finder, or searching online, you can determine what size will work best for your vehicle.
Don't be afraid to deviate from the automaker's recommended brand. If you are not satisfied with the performance of the windshield wipers installed on your vehicle, contact an auto parts store representative to recommend an alternative.
How do I best care for my wiper blades?
The best way to care for your wipers is to keep them clean. You can use washer fluid or glass cleaner to remove dirt from the wiper blades. A soft cloth can be used as a cleaning tool.
Blades that are frequently exposed to the sun can dry out, making them less flexible and less effective. In sunnier parts of the world, wiper blades may need to be replaced more frequently.
Don't rely on windshield wiper blades to scrape ice. A small piece of ice stuck to the window can tear the rubber film and reduce its effectiveness. If you don't have a scraper, use your car's defroster setting to create a good melt before running the wipers.
There are a few things to keep in mind when inspecting your blade. A cracked frame, metal corrosion or visible damage to the rubber means it's time to replace it.
How do I check the windshield washer fluid?
It should always be above the washer fluid level. Some cars have a light in the instrument cluster that illuminates when the fluid level is low, while others require regular self-checks. However, the simplest test method is to activate the sprinklers.
If you find your levels are low, you can find washer fluid at your local auto store for about $5.
The stuffing tube is usually easy to find. On many cars, the washer fluid reservoir is hidden under the fender. Look for a plastic cap with a windshield and a script symbol to identify the correct fill area. Some cars have a fill line while others require you to fill to the top of the filler tube. Read your manual to determine the appropriate level.
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