Windscreen wipers that are old and perished pose a serious hazard when driving in rain, as they obscure and limit visibility. This means that regular checks of your windscreen wipers are critical to ensure they are in good working order.
The leading edge of the windscreen wiper should be the only part of the wiper to touch the windscreen. If there are visible hairline cracks and indicators of rubber degradation, it is time to change your wipers blades. Another indicator that wiper blades are beyond repair is when the leading edge of the blade starts to tear off and flap around.
Windscreen wiper degradation signs:
- Noisy and squeaky action
- Wiper shudder
- Wiper leaves gaps when cleaning water off screen
- Reduced visibility even with wipers on
- Tears, cracks and hardening due to the elements
Putting a bit of soap additive in the water reservoir will aid wiper action and increase the lifespan of the wiper blades. Sometimes it is not necessary to replace wiper blades as they might just have a buildup of dirt. The accumulation of dirt on wiper blades is unavoidable over time. Use a cleaning agent or soap and a cloth. Slide the cloth with cleaning material back and forth along the leading edge of both wipers and you’ll be surprised to see just how much dirt you are able to remove.
Driving with old and damaged wiper blades can pose a serious risk to the driver by reducing visibility and increasing the instance of accidents. Wiper blades in general are not expensive and can easily be replaced.
Wipe your way to a safer drive!
Do you have a method of cleaning you wiper blades? Do you have a secret detergent that takes the dirt off your wiper blades like no other? Let us know in the comments below.
