When to Replace Windshield Wipers
When a problem arises with your windshield wipers which can be fixed at home, taking the time to fix the issue yourself is always the better option. In fact, most solutions to fixable wiper problems often take as little as a couple of minutes to undertake. However, there comes a time when a windshield wiper is damaged beyond repair, no matter your level of expertise. As such, we all find ourselves in need of new blades at some time or another. Do you know when it’s time to bite the bullet and grab a new pair? Here are some common issues whose only solution is acquiring a new set of blades.
RUGGED RUBBER
The part of a wiper blade which is most responsible for cleaning your windshield is the thin, rubber strip which juts out from the side facing your window. If you’ve been experiencing streaks on your windshield, take a look at said rubber strip. If it has taken on a rugged appearance (often marked by bumps and slits), it’s safe to say that the blade in question is beyond repair. In such a case, you’re always better off getting a replacement blade, as your current blade will only get worse as time goes on.
SQUEAKING NOISES
If one of your windshield wipers’ arms are bent, you may experience a lot of noise when using your blade. This is fixable. If neither arm is bent; however, you’re likely better off getting a new wiper blade. As with anything, windshield wipers wear out after a while. As this happens, a blade will lose some of its original form. While you might not see any noticeable difference, the smallest adjustment in a blade’s original form is all it takes for its pressure to be spread unevenly across your windshield, having it create more noise when in operation. Once again, this will only get worse the longer the blade is in use.
A BROKEN FRAME
Unless you’re actively looking for it, a broken wiper blade frame is not an issue which immediately presents itself. However, a broken frame is indicative of future issues which are likely to take place very soon. If you notice the frame on one or more of your windshield wipers has cracked, you’ll want to get it replaced as soon as possible. The last thing you need when driving full speed down the highway is to have your blade fall off and hit the car behind you. Blades with cracked frames should always be replaced right away.
A RUSTY FRAME
Similar to a broken frame, a rusty frame might not cause any immediate issue. However, depending on how long the frame has been rusting for, its structural integrity may be compromised to a very large degree. As such, it’s important to get it replaced right away so as to ensure it doesn’t fly off and hit another car at high speeds. Not only is a rusty frame dangerous under certain circumstances, nobody wants to deal with a blade that stops working when they need it most. Replacing a rusty blade should always be high on your priority list after you first notice it.
