4 Tips for Making Your Windshield Wiper Blades Last Longer
Windshield wiper blades are an essential component of your vehicle. While many people know it’s important to replace them approximately every six months, not everyone knows the strategies to prolong their shelf life. Here are four tips to make your wipers last longer.
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1. Avoid operating the wipers dry
Windshield wipers were designed to clear moisture from the vehicle windshield — whether that moisture is precipitation or washer fluid. If you use the wipers dry, you might scratch the windshield glass permanently due to dry debris on the surface.
2. Clean wiper blades regularly
As wiper blades age, it’s normal for them to collect dirt and grime. Not only does this lessen their impact but it also damages the rubber part of the blade. Help your blades last longer by regularly cleaning them. This involves soaking a cloth in washer fluid then wiping the blades clean.
Photo: Gerry
3. Lift wiper blades when it snows
There’s a reason that many vehicles look like insects with antennae in the winter — lifting the wiper blades when it snows enhances their durability. If your region experiences chilly temperatures during this season, make a habit of checking the weather forecast. Lift the wipers on your vehicle whenever the local forecast calls for freezing rain or snow to prevent them from sticking to your windshield.
4. Don’t de-ice the windshield with the wipers down
This might be a no-brainer, but it’s an easy tip to forget if you tend to be a little too enthusiastic about de-icing your windshield. When clearing snow and ice off of this surface, keep the ice scraper edge away from the wiper blades. (It’s a simple strategy to apply, especially if you make a habit of step #3.)
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Source: Your Mechanic
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