What Wears Out Windshield Wipers?

Have you ever been driving in the rain, only to find that your windshield wipers aren’t working properly? It’s a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation. But have you ever wondered what causes windshield wipers to wear out?

Windshield wipers are an essential safety feature of any vehicle. They ensure clear visibility for the driver, and without them, driving in adverse weather conditions would be nearly impossible. However, over time, windshield wipers can wear out or become less effective, leaving you struggling to see the road ahead.

Knowing what wears out windshield wipers can help you prevent premature failure and ensure that you’re always able to see clearly while driving. From weather conditions to maintenance issues, several factors can contribute to the degradation of your wipers. In this article, we’ll explore some of the common causes of windshield wiper wear and tear, and give you tips on how to keep them in top condition.

What are the common causes of worn-out windshield wipers?

• One of the most common causes of worn-out wipers is simply time. Over time, the rubber blades that make up your wipers will wear down due to exposure to sunlight and rain, eventually becoming hard and brittle. This can cause them to lose their effectiveness, leaving streaks when you’re trying to clean your windshield. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to check your wiper blades every six months or so for signs of wear and tear. If they seem worn out, it’s a good idea to replace them as soon as possible.

• In addition to normal wear and tear, extreme weather conditions can also affect the longevity of your windscreen wipers. In cold climates, ice and snow can cause the metal part of the wiper arm to become brittle, while in hot climates, extreme heat can cause the rubber blade to break down over time. To prevent any issues with your wipers due to weather conditions, it’s important to find the right wiper blades for your vehicle and please check them regularly for signs of damage.

• Finally, another common cause of windshield wiper damage is improper maintenance. Many people don’t realise that they need to periodically clean and lubricate their wipers in order to keep them working properly. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the blades, causing them to drag or judder when you use them. To prevent this from happening, you should clean your wipers every few months with a damp cloth or mild soap and water. You should also use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the wiper arm moving smoothly and reduce wear and tear on the blades.

How frequently should you change your wiper blades?

Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to replace your wiper blades every six months or so. This will help ensure that they remain in top condition and don’t wear out prematurely. However, if you’re noticing signs of wear and tear on your wipers before this time, such as streaking or juddering, then it may be time to replace them earlier.

Do you know how to extend the life of your windshield wipers?

To keep your wiper blades in top condition and extend their lifespan, there are several actions you can take. 

• First, it’s important to make sure you have the right kind of wiper blades for your vehicle. Different vehicles require different types of wipers, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for information about what type of blades you should use.

• Another way to prolong the life of your wiper blades is to clean them regularly. As we mentioned before, dirt and debris can build up on the rubber blade and cause it to drag or judder when in use. To prevent this from happening, be sure to clean your wipers every few months with a damp cloth or mild soap and water.

• Finally, if you live in an area with extreme weather, you may want to consider using wiper blade refills. These are designed to replace the rubber blades on your wipers and provide additional protection from the elements. Replacing the refills regularly can help keep your windshield wipers in good condition and prevent them from wearing out prematurely.

In summary, several factors can contribute to the wear and tear of your windshield wipers, from time to weather conditions. To keep them working efficiently, it’s important to check for signs of damage every six months and replace them if necessary. You should also clean your wiper blades regularly and use wipes refills if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Doing these things will help ensure that you’re always able to keep your windshield clean and clear.

Conclusion

Overall, what wears out windshield wipers are extreme weather conditions, improper maintenance, and incorrect wiper blades for your vehicle. To extend the lifespan of your wipers, be sure to check them regularly for signs of damage and replace them when necessary. Additionally, it’s important to keep them clean and lubricated, as well as use wiper blade refills if you live in an area with extreme weather. Doing these things will help keep your windshield clean and clear at all times.

Get in touch with a Windscreen Replacer today if you need help or advice with your windshield wipers. Our team is here to help make sure you get the right wiper blades for your vehicle and keep them in top condition.