How Often Should Car Wiper Blades Be Replaced?
2 Answers
It is generally recommended to replace them once a year. However, if the wiper blades are still performing well and show no signs of aging, extending the replacement interval is acceptable. The most important factor is the condition of the wiper blades themselves. The specific replacement methods and classifications are as follows: How to Remove Wiper Blades: First, lift the wiper arm upward. Then, use the thumb and index finger of your left hand to firmly pinch both sides of the wiper connector at the anti-slip textured positions. Simultaneously, use your right hand to lift and open the cover. Hold the wiper arm tightly with your right hand, and with your left hand gripping the wiper blade, pull it downward along the direction of the arm. This will allow you to remove the wiper blade. Types of Wiper Blades: Traditional wiper blades rely on a metal frame to press the rubber blade against the windshield. Due to their structure, they cannot achieve perfect contact with the glass, leading to issues such as incomplete wiping, faster blade wear, and increased noise. Beam-style (or frameless) wiper blades use a single pressure-distributing strip to evenly distribute force across the blade, reducing water streaks and scratches for a cleaner wipe.
I think the timing for wiper replacement is quite flexible. I usually change mine every 6 to 12 months, depending mainly on usage habits and weather conditions. Living in the rainy south, I replace them whenever I notice they're not cleaning properly or making squeaky noises. Otherwise, driving in the rain would be like driving blindfolded, which could easily lead to accidents. Checking them is simple—just wipe the rubber blades after washing the car to prevent aging, or use wiper fluid to extend their lifespan a bit. Safety comes first; don't wait until you can't see the road clearly to take action. If you encounter heavy rain on the highway, it might be too late to regret not replacing them sooner.
