Windshield Wiper Blades: When It’s Time to Replace, and How to Do It…

Summertime will soon come to a close, and the fall/winter weather will present certain driving challenges. Oftentimes our vehicle’s windshield wiper blades are worn out and need to be replaced, and we don’t find out until it’s too late, in the middle of a bad storm, and there is limited visibility. Windshield wipers are made of rubber, extremely durable, but the rubber can eventually break down from constant exposure to the elements, including the hot sun and last winter’s freeze. If you notice that the windshield blades are cracked or chipped then it’s time to replace the blades. A damaged windshield wiper blade won’t grip the surface of the windshield. But if the blades don’t appear damaged, then make sure that the blades are clean. Wipe down the blades with a damp rag or towel to remove any dirt and debris caught beneath the rubber. Keep the blades clean and free of dirt/debris, and they should continue to function, and work efficiently. It’s not overly difficult to replace a windshield wiper blade, but there are a few steps. If you don’t want to replace the blades yourself, then the experts at Willard’s Garage can quickly and easily handle the job. If you choose to do it, then the first step is to determine the size of wiper blade you need. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should have the correct wiper blade size listed, but if not, simply measure the length of the blade with a tape measure. To remove the old wiper blade, lift the wiper arm up and away from the windshield. On the wiper arm, there is a tab on the underside of the wiper, where the wiper meets the wiper arm. Depress the tab to remove the wiper, which should slide free. Then simply attach the new wiper to the wiper arm, and press it into place until you hear an audible click. Then check the wipers for complete functionality, using the wiper fluid to make sure they function efficiently.