Regular Cleaning: Wipe down the rubber edge of your wiper
blades with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
This helps maintain a smooth swipe and prolongs the life of the blades.
Avoid Ice and Snow Damage: Before using your wipers in winter, ensure
that the windshield is clear of ice and snow. Use a scraper to remove any
build-up rather than relying on the wipers, as ice can damage the blades.
Inspect for Wear: Periodically check your wiper blades for
signs of wear, such as cracks, tears, or stiffness in the rubber. If you
notice any of these issues, it's time to replace the blades.
Keep the Windshield Clean: A clean windshield reduces friction and
prevents the wiper blades from working harder than necessary. Regularly
clean your windshield with a quality glass cleaner.
Avoid Running Dry: Don’t use your wipers on a dry windshield as
this can cause the rubber to wear down quickly. Always ensure the
windshield is wet or use washer fluid when operating the wipers.
Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your car in the
shade to prevent the wiper blades from deteriorating due to prolonged
exposure to UV rays, which can cause the rubber to harden and crack.
Lift Blades During Winter: If you're expecting frost or snow, lift the
wiper blades off the windshield when parking. This prevents them from
freezing to the glass and reduces the risk of damage when you start your
car.
Replace When Necessary: Even with proper care, wiper blades will
eventually wear out. As a rule of thumb, replace your wiper blades every
6-12 months, or sooner if you notice a decline in performance.
Technical Info and Basic Car Checks
Carrying out basic car checks shouldn’t just be something you do before an MOT – practising good car maintenance habits can save you time and money in the long term, with just a little effort. If you’re looking for more information on the topic, be sure to check out our comprehensive resource, below.