Fall is a good time of year to change your vehicle’s wiper blades, although any season will do. Even if you have purchased new ones recently and feel like you don’t need others, manufacturers sell wiper blades made just for the winter ice and snow. Check on a regular basis to be sure your solvent reservoir stays full. Another way to tell if you need new windshield wipers is when you are not seeing a clear view through the vehicle’s windshield, or you hear a scratching or scraping sound as they move back and forth.
After replacing the old with the new, clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild abrasive cleaner. Or use the windshield wiper washer solvent. This will remove the accumulation of salt, waxes, or road film and dirt, and help reduce streaking and smearing during use. If you operate the wipers on dry glass for long periods of time, the wipers may begin to deteriorate. Always use washer fluid with the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from the windshield. Make sure the wipers are not frozen to the glass before turning them on to avoid damaging the blades. Keep the rubber part out of contact with products such as oil or gas, or anything that includes petroleum products.
To remove the blades, lift the wiper arm away from the glass. Push the release tab and slide the wiper blade assembly down along the arm. Then very carefully place the wiper arm on the windshield. Install the new blade assembly onto the wiper arm tip until it locks in place. If the aim on your windshield washer needs adjusted, place a safety pin into the nozzle opening and move the nozzle slightly. Keep doing this until you obtain the desired pattern.
Now check the washer fluid reservoir, and fill it with washer solvent. Never put antifreeze in the reservoir. This should be done every couple of weeks, depending on the weather. When you go to buy new blades, remember that they come in different sizes, so take the old one with you as a measurement. Check your windshield wiper arm to make sure it is not bent or damaged. If you have to replace it, just lift the arm assemble off the windshield, and where the arm hooks on to the bottom of the windshield there are two buttons to press in. As you do this, slide the arm out. Reverse this process to replace with a new arm. You can get all the parts you need at any auto parts outlet or department stores with automotive sections like Wal-mart. While you are checking your windshield wiper fluid, go ahead and check all the fluids, like oil, antifreeze, and even the fluid in your battery. Make sure that your battery terminals and cables are clean as well.
Follow a few simple steps like these to keep your vehicle operating safely and smoothly throughout the winter months. There is no need to take chances on getting stuck in a snowstorm or freezing rain where quality wipers may mean the difference between reckless and careful operation of your car.
