As a car owner, you might not think about your windshield wipers until it’s too late. But did you know that worn-out wipers can cause damage to your windshield and even impact your safety on the road? At Auto Glass Ottawa, we’re here to help you understand how often you should replace your wipers and why it’s so important for the longevity of your windshield.
Why are windshield wipers important?
Windshield wipers might seem like simple tools, but they play a crucial role in keeping your visibility clear and your windshield protected. When your wipers are working properly, they ensure that rain, snow, and debris are wiped away efficiently, preventing the build-up of dirt and grime. But when they’re worn out or damaged, they can leave streaks, scratches, and even cracks on your glass.
The wipers help to remove everything from rain to road salts and grime. If they’re not functioning at their best, it can be hard to see clearly, which puts you at risk, especially in inclement weather. Plus, improper wiper blades can actually cause damage to your windshield that might require windshield repair in Ottawa.
How often should you replace your windshield wipers?
Generally, you should replace your windshield wipers every 6 to 12 months, depending on the weather conditions and how frequently you use them. If you live in Ottawa, where winters can be harsh and summers can bring a lot of rain, it’s important to stay on top of wiper blade maintenance. Extreme temperatures, whether it’s the freezing cold or the sweltering heat, can cause the rubber on your wipers to crack, tear, or lose its effectiveness.
If you’re using your wipers frequently, you might need to replace them sooner. The rubber can start to degrade over time, losing its ability to make proper contact with the windshield. This can cause the blades to skip, streak, or even smear water or dirt across your glass, which is definitely not ideal when you’re driving.
Signs your windshield wipers need replacing
If you’re unsure whether it’s time for new wipers, here are a few signs to look out for:
- Streaking or smearing: If your wipers leave streaks or smears on the windshield, it means they aren’t clearing away water as they should. The rubber may be worn down, preventing it from making smooth contact with the glass.
- Chattering or skipping: When the wipers make a chattering sound or skip across the windshield, the rubber has likely lost its flexibility, and the wipers aren’t making full contact with the glass.
- Visible damage: If you can see any cracks, tears, or splits in the rubber blades, it’s time for a replacement. Damaged wipers can’t perform properly and could even damage your windshield.
- Loud noises: If your wipers are making a squealing or scraping sound, it’s a sign that they aren’t gliding smoothly across the glass. This could be due to hardened rubber or debris caught between the blade and the windshield.
- Poor performance in bad weather: When it’s raining or snowing heavily, if your wipers aren’t clearing the windshield properly, it’s a sign they’re not functioning at full capacity. Poor visibility in bad weather is not something to risk.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a replacement to avoid causing damage to your windshield.
What happens if you ignore replacing worn-out wipers?
If you put off replacing your wipers, you might be setting yourself up for more than just a frustrating driving experience. Damaged wipers can leave behind abrasions and streaks, which over time can result in scratches on your windshield. These scratches may not seem significant at first, but they can grow into cracks that require windshield repair in Ottawa.
In severe cases, poor visibility due to ineffective wipers can contribute to accidents or collisions, especially when the weather is bad. And if you’re dealing with a cracked or damaged windshield, you may end up needing a full windshield replacement, which is much more costly than simply replacing your wipers.
How to take care of your windshield wipers
Proper maintenance of your wipers can help extend their life and ensure they’re always ready to perform when you need them most. Here are some tips:
- Keep your windshield clean: Dirt and debris can accumulate on your windshield, which can cause wear on your wiper blades. Regularly clean both the windshield and the wiper blades to keep everything running smoothly.
- Check for any debris on the blades: Before using your wipers, inspect them for any debris like leaves or twigs. This can cause the blades to tear or get damaged.
- Avoid using wipers on a dry windshield: If you’re cleaning your windshield without water, don’t use your wipers. Wiping a dry windshield can damage the rubber and reduce the lifespan of the wipers.
- Replace the wiper blades as a pair: It’s a good idea to replace both the driver’s and passenger’s side wipers at the same time. Even if only one side is showing signs of wear, it’s better to replace both to maintain balanced performance.
When it’s time to replace your wipers, it’s also a good idea to consider other glass care tips to protect your vehicle. Using a high-quality windshield cleaner, waxing your windshield, and avoiding harsh chemicals can keep your glass in top condition.
Need windshield repair or replacement?
If it’s time to replace your windshield or you need windshield repair in Ottawa, we’ve got you covered. Contact Auto Glass Ottawa today at 613-234-9111 or book an appointment. We offer same-day repairs, use only top-quality materials, and back every job with a lifetime warranty for leaks and air noise. Don’t let a cracked windshield slow you down – we’ll come to YOU! Our certified technicians ensure the best results, every time.