Looking after your wiper blades properly helps maintain clear visibility, improves safety, and extends the life of the blades throughout the year. This guide explains how to care for your wipers in all seasons, using simple steps suited to UK driving conditions.
โ๏ธ WINTER CARE โ Frost, Ice & Freezing Temperatures
Cold weather is one of the biggest causes of premature wiper blade wear.
๐ง Never pull frozen wiper blades off the glass
This can tear the rubber edge or weaken the wiper arm tension.
๐ก๏ธ Protect the windscreen overnight
Using a windscreen cover prevents ice forming directly on the glass, reducing strain on both the screen and blades.
๐ All-Weather Windscreen Cover:
https://www.vipacarparts.com/products/p1-autocare-all-weather-windscreen-cover
๐งด Defrost before wiping
If ice does form, always clear it before turning your wipers on.
๐ De-Icer Trigger Spray (300ml):
https://www.vipacarparts.com/products/p1-auto-care-de-icer-trigger-spray-300ml
๐ช Use a scraper for thicker ice
Avoid using the wipers to remove solid ice.
๐ Ice Scraper:
https://www.vipacarparts.com/products/vcp-w-ice-001
๐ง๏ธ ALL-YEAR CARE โ Clean Glass = Better Wiping
Dirty windscreens cause smearing, skipping, and noise.
๐งผ Clean the windscreen regularly
Road film, oil and traffic residue build up quickly and wear the blade edge.
๐ง Use proper screenwash, not water
Screenwash breaks down grease and grime far better than plain water.
๐ Screenwash Pod (Makes 5L):
https://www.vipacarparts.com/products/screenwash-pod-makes-5l-of-screen-wash-blue-raspberry-fresh-fragrance-copy
๐งฝ Wipe the blade edge monthly
Use a damp cloth with screenwash to remove dirt from the rubber lip.
โ๏ธ SUMMER CARE โ Heat, UV & Dry Screens
Hot weather can harden rubber and reduce flexibility.
๐ก๏ธ Avoid running wipers on a dry screen
Always use washer fluid to lubricate the glass before wiping.
๐
ฟ๏ธ Park in shade where possible
UV exposure accelerates rubber degradation over time.
๐งด Check washer fluid levels often
Higher summer evaporation means fluid runs out faster.
๐ ROUTINE CHECKS โ EVERY 4โ6 WEEKS
Regular checks help spot issues early.
๐ Inspect the rubber edge
Look for cracks, splits, or uneven wear.
๐ Listen for noise
Squeaking or juddering often means contamination or wear.
๐ Check wipe coverage
Missed areas or streaks usually indicate the blade is nearing replacement.
๐ WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR WIPER BLADES
Even with good aftercare, wiper blades are a wear item.
๐จ Replace your blades if you notice:
Persistent smearing or streaking
Chattering or vibration
Skipping across the glass
Reduced visibility in rain
For most drivers, replacement is recommended every 6โ12 months, depending on mileage and conditions.
๐ WHY AFTERCARE MATTERS
Good wiper blade maintenance:
Improves visibility in all weather
Reduces strain on the wiper motor
Extends blade lifespan
Helps maintain MOT readiness
Improves driving safety year-round