Automobiles are pretty complex machines. Not only do they have 6 or 8-cylinder engines, but they also have complex bodies, consisting of a frame, wheels, axles, and more. There is so much to know about these vehicles and their various parts. As an average car owner, you can generally get away with just knowing the basics — when to change the oil, how to know when you brakes need replacing, and so forth. But if you have a passion for cars, you might want to dig a little deeper. On this website, we share articles on all sorts of automotive topics to help you boost your knowledge.
How Do You Know When You Need To Replace Your Car's Windshield Wipers?
Your car's windshield wiper blades need to be replaced periodically to ensure that you can see well out of your windshield while you're driving in the rain or the snow. High temperatures and ultraviolet light from being in the sun will break down the plastic in the blades, causing them to warp, and warped blades won't clean your windshield as well.
Having functional windshield wipers is important to keep you safe on the road, especially when you're driving at night. If your windshield wipers miss raindrops or create streaks across your windshield, streetlights and car headlights shining through your windshield can create a glare that makes it hard to see while you're driving. Thankfully, windshield wiper blades are inexpensive and easy to replace. To learn when it's time to replace the ones on your car, read on.
Your Windshield Wipers Create Streaks
Streaks on your windshield are caused when your windshield wiper blades become bent out of their normal position. When a wiper blade bends backward, the rubber element attached to the blade won't make enough contact with your windshield. It will drag rain and snow across your windshield instead of scraping it off, creating a streak.
Your Windshield Wipers Get Stuck on Your Windshield While They're On
If your windshield wipers get stuck and stutter across your windshield instead of sweeping across it in a smooth motion, it's a sign that the blades are bent forwards. Windshield wiper blades are designed to perfectly align with the way that your car's windshield curves. When a part of the blade bends forward, it will push the rubber element against the windshield, increasing friction. The increased friction can wear out your windshield wiper motors, so it's a good idea to replace your wiper blades to stop the motor from failing.
Your Windshield Wiper Blade's Rubber Element Is Falling Off
The rubber element on a windshield wiper blade that makes contact with your windshield is glued to the blade. Heat and ultraviolet light will degrade the glue, and it will eventually become too weak to hold the rubber element to the wiper blade. You'll notice gaps between the rubber element and the blade as it starts coming off. If the rubber element falls off entirely, the plastic wiper blade can scratch your windshield. Replacing the wiper blade will stop it from damaging your windshield if the rubber element falls off while your wipers are on.
If your windshield wiper blades are bent, look for a replacement that fits your vehicle at an auto parts store in your area. Even if only one blade is doing a poor job of keeping your windshield clean, it's usually best to replace them all at the same time — the rest are likely close to failing as well. Replacing your windshield wiper blades is an inexpensive way to make sure you're safe on the road.