Windshield wiper maintenance tips

Windshield wipers are the unsung heroes of road safety. They provide you with maximum visibility when there’s a sudden downpour and they help keep your windscreen clean even when it’s not raining. However, they’re often neglected. Harsh weather conditions, seasonal changes and lack of use can contribute to their wear and tear.

Checking your windscreen wipers every now and then is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. To help them last longer, follow these tips:

1. Clean the wiper blades 

• Clean the wiper blades every time you fill up with petrol. You can use the soapy water provided at most petrol stations to do this. Gently wipe off the dirt from your blade and let it dry.

2. Fill the windshield washer with quality fluids

• Windshield washer will help get your windscreen clean, with fewer streaks. 

3. Never use wiper blades on a dry windshield

• Wiper blades are for use on wet windscreens only. Using them on a dry windscreen will not only damage the rubber of the blades but also cause streaks on your windscreen. 

4. Adjust, reposition and tighten the blades

• Wiper blades only work best when installed properly, so check them regularly to see if you need to adjust the blades and tighten the fittings. 

Looking after your windshield wiper blades should be a part of your vehicle maintenance activities. They usually need to be replaced about once a year. Below are signs that it’s time to replace your windscreen wipers:

• Poor visibility when you use them, and they leave streaks on your windscreen. 
• Broken metal frame, presence of bents or corrosion. Especially at the joints and claws. 
• Worn out wiper fittings. 
• The surface of the rubber is not even. In most cases; rubber cracks, splitting and broken off in different places.
• Wipers start making chattering sounds.