The first step to safety on the road is being able to see, which makes your windshield wipers one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Most people don’t give them much of a second thought, but they do require regular maintenance, and the blades need replacement in order to make sure they’re doing the best possible job of keeping your windshield clear of rain, snow, slush, and mud. Learn more with the team here at the Downtown Auto Group.
Ineffective Wipers
A sure sign your wiper blades are overdue for replacement is when they stop effectively doing their job. Streaking and skipping in the wipers are sure signs the rubber has stopped properly conforming to the contour of the windshield. If the wipers fail to clear parts of the windshield, that’s also an indication the rubber has worn out in those spots. If you start to hear an audible scraping or squeaking noise when the wipers are active, that could also mean the rubber on the blades has worn completely down to the metal.
Replacement Schedule
The best practice when it comes to wiper blades is to replace them once or twice a year, usually in the 6 to 12 month range depending on the frequency of use. This makes sure your vehicle’s blades are always working their best, especially in the rainier or snowier months.
Winter Wiper Blades
Another option is to swap your all-season wiper blades for thicker winter blades. Much like a snow tire, winter wiper blades are made from rubber that is better suited to cold weather use, keeping them flexible and helping reduce ice buildup. They’re also stronger, allowing them to clear snow more effectively than regular blades. Plus, by swapping them in, you preserve your all-season blades longer. It may be worth considering switching your wiper blades at the same time as your winter tires.
Schedule Your Wiper Blade Replacement with Downtown Auto Group
The certified service teams here at the Downtown Auto Group are always on hand to help you with any part maintenance and replacement for your vehicle. Schedule a service appointment at our state-of-the-art facility in Toronto, ON, today, and we’ll get your wiper blades replaced as soon as possible.
