One quick and inexpensive way to improve your car’s value is to replace your car’s windshield wiper blades every six months. Wiper blades deteriorate over time because rain, snow, and debris on the glass windshield surface gradually wear down the effective clearing capabilities of the blades.
Wiper Blade Replacement
If you have noticed any of these signs, then it is time to change out your car’s wiper blades:
- Streaking – Road chemicals, sunlight, and extreme temperature can affect the flexibility of the blade surface as it touches the glass surface, causing streaks to form.
- Open areas on the wiping surface – Car washes, ice scrapers, and road debris can damage wiper arms and blades, and misshapen blades will miss wiping areas of the windshield.
- Torn rubber – The leading edge of the wiping surface can tear away from the support structure, leaving your wiper blades basically useless.
Normally, tools are not necessary to complete your windshield wiper blade replacements. While each wiper blade is slightly different, you’ll find that most blades have hook-type mounts. The wiper arm is lifted off of the glass surface, and the blade is rotated 180 degrees down the wiper arm. Look for a release clip that keeps the blade in place.
Wiper Blade Maintenance
Once you’ve replaced your wiper blades, be sure to perform regular maintenance on them. This helps prolong the life of the wiper blades. Simply take a moment to clean the blade surface when cleaning your windshield, using a soft rag and some glass cleaner.
Choosing the right windshield washing fluid can also extend your wiper blades’ life. Pre-mixed washer fluids are a great solution, especially ones that are tailored to the weather conditions. In the summer months, try “Bug Remover.” In the winter months, “De-icer” works well since the ethylene glycol helps melt ice and snow on the glass surface while driving. Be sure to remove any ice and snow from your windshield before turning on the wipers since blades can freeze to the glass.
Windshield Maintenance
While you’re taking care of your windshield wipers, check on the condition of your glass windshield. Under close inspection, do you see any small nicks, chips, or cracks in the glass? If so, now’s the time to take your car to an auto glass repair shop to fix these little problems before they turn into bigger problems.
Our highly trained experts at Waxwerks can help you with all of your auto glass needs, including windshield repair, windshield replacement, and window replacement. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, we also offer additional auto services, such as window tinting, car detailing, and car electronic installation. Contact Waxwerks today at 317-577-9700 if you have any questions or would like to make a service appointment.
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