When Should I Get My Windshield Wipers Replaced?

Nov 17, 2020

When Should I Get My Windshield Wipers Replaced?

rn By Product Expert | Posted in Tips and Tricks, Vehicle Maintenance on Thursday, December 26th, 2019 at 10:38 amrn

Close up of a person checking a windshield wiper blade

Signs of Worn Windshield Wipers

As you drive in the rain, do you notice that your windshieldrnwipers aren’t working as well as they should? If you have trouble seeing whilernusing the wipers, it’s time for a replacement. Here are some signs that yourrnwindshield wipers are going bad.

Skipping, Streaking, or Splitting

The most common issues with bad wiper blades are that theyrnstart skipping, streaking, or splitting. When wipers do this, water isn’t beingrnmoved off the windshield properly and can cause visibility issues. Most driversrnwait until one of these signs arise to change their windshield wipers.

Skipping, streaking, and splitting can be caused by a varietyrnof factors. The rubber may be rounded rather than squared. There may be cracksrnor missing pieces in the rubber that water is seeping through. The frame may bernbroken, corrosion is present at the joints or claws, or the wiper wasn’trninstalled correctly. Be sure to check the rubber, arm, and joints so you know wherernthe problem is coming from.

Driver's perspective of a streaking windshield wiper

Chattering Noise

Another sign that your windshield wipers are going bad is ifrnthey are making a chattering sound when being used. Many times, this is due tornthe blades or windshield not being clean. Another cause is if the wiper arm isrnbent and not allowing the blade to contact the glass correctly. If yourrnwindshield and wipers are clean and the arm isn’t bent, then it’s time to getrnreplacements.

[ READ MORE: Signsrnthat your Car Battery is Failing ]

How Long Do Windshield Wipers Last?

Windshield wipers can last roughly six months to a fullrnyear. Factors that affect how long they last for include the weather, how oftenrnthey are used, the material they are made from, and age. Thankfully, gettingrnwindshield wipers replaced is very cost-effective as wiper blades arernrelatively cheap and you don’t have to replace them too often.

Looking for more tips and tricks regarding proper care ofrnyour car? Check out the OkCarz blogrnfor more!