How to Determine When to Replace Wiper Blades?
3 Answers
There are several methods to determine if wiper blades need replacement: 1. Replace the wiper blades when there are a maximum of 4 permanent streaks or 12 temporary streaks across the entire visible area. 2. Replace the wiper blades when there are a maximum of 6 permanent streaks and the entire space is covered with temporary or permanent streaks. 3. If the rubber blade is worn, causing a thin layer of mist under the clamp, fine streaks, fog, or linear residues on the windshield, replace the wiper blades immediately. 4. If the wiper blades make a clicking sound during operation, replace them immediately. 5. If the rubber blade is deformed, leaving a water film on the windshield after wiping, replace the wiper blades immediately. Wiper blades are an essential component of the wiper system, playing a crucial role in cleaning the windshield and ensuring clear driving visibility.
I usually rely on my driving experience to determine if the wiper blades need replacement. If the wipers squeak or skip while wiping, leaving water stains or streaks on the windshield that make it look foggy, I know they're no good. For example, during the last rainy day, I could initially see the road clearly, but after a few wipes, my vision became blurry—how dangerous! Wiper rubber deteriorates quite quickly, especially after exposure to summer heat and winter cold, making it prone to hardening or cracking. Generally, you should inspect them every six months or a year by running your finger along the blade—if it feels hard or uneven, it’s time for a change. Delaying replacement might even damage the windshield, leading to costlier repairs. I stick to regular maintenance for peace of mind, especially on long trips where safety comes first. Remember to test the wipers with some water before the rainy season to avoid trouble during sudden downpours. These small habits have saved me a lot of hassle.
I can tell when the wipers need replacing from the discomfort during daily use. The noise during wiping is especially loud, like a brush jumping around on the glass, making me uneasy, especially when driving with kids, which is more distracting. Visibility is already poor in the rain, and if the wipers leave water streaks or blur, I get nervous while driving. A simple method is to spray some water on the glass and test: normally, they should glide smoothly without leaving any traces. Rubber deteriorates quickly, usually becoming unreliable after more than a year, so it's advisable to replace them. Don't procrastinate on maintenance; it can extend the overall lifespan of the vehicle. I've also noticed that in places with significant weather changes, like high humidity in autumn and winter, problems are more likely to occur. Regularly clearing leaves or dust can help the wipers last a bit longer, but ultimately, timely replacement is essential—safety comes first.
