Windshield Wiper System Components
Your windshield wiper system consists of four primary components: the blades, wiper arms, wiper arm covers, and wiper cowls. Your wiper blades can have problems at many of the four components, but usually the blades themselves tend to wear out first because they do most of the work.
Windshield Wiper Life
Most wiper blades will last about a year under normal conditions and circumstances, but with proper conditions they can last as long as three years before they need to be replaced. Most blades cost between $20-$30, but how often you replace them depends on several factors. Direct and regular exposure to UV radiation can dry out the edges of the blades and cause them to crack. In cold climates, using wipers to clear your windshield of snow and ice can cause cracks at the edge as well, and ice accumulation can tear chunks out of the blade. High heat and arid desert-like conditions will also dry out the blade and sandy conditions can whittle down the edge of the blade. Normal wipers will work for most temperate environments, but high heat or extreme cold conditions may require a wiper more fitting for that type of climate.
Wiper Care
There are some tips that can extend the life of your blades, so they need to be replaced less frequently.
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When fueling up, wipe your wiper blades with a soft cloth or paper towel wet down with washer fluid to remove dirt and debris from the blade.
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Use a squeegee soaked with washer fluid to remove larger clumps of debris from your windshield.
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Park your care under cover or a well-shaded area to prevent constant bombardment of UV radiation.
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Don’t use dry wipers on a dry windshield.
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In colder conditions, allow the frost and ice on your windshield to thaw before using the wipers.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace the Blades
Here are some common signs:
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Steaks in the same place.
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Smearing, not clearing.
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Pieces of rubber hanging off the blades, visible cracks in the blade, notches or chunks removed from the blade edge.
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Screeching or chattering as the wiper moves over the glass.
If you need windshield wiper service, contact us at ALM Ford Marietta and set up an appointment with our Service Center, or set it up yourself online, and be sure to look at our parts and service specials often to see if your new wipers are included in our specials.
