Windscreen wipers are one of a vehicle’s unsung heroes. Often neglected and taken for granted, many of us don’t notice that our windscreen wipers need changing until we are caught in a heavy downpour. Failure to check your windscreen wipers can leave you in danger in the event of heavy rain, sleet or snow.
Depending on where you live, and the climate, you will probably need to replace your windscreen wipers every year or so, to make sure that they are able to completely clear obstructions from your windscreen.
Windscreen wipers consist of three parts: the lower arm, which links to the blades’ motor, the metal or plastic blade, which attaches to the lower arm, and the rubber blade, which acts as a squeegee and clears obstructions from your windscreen.
If you notice that your wipers aren’t as effective as they should be, carefully remove the rubber blades. Inspect them for cracks; rubber can perish and when a windscreen wiper blade is cracked, it won’t work as well. If you can’t see any cracks, give them a wash before buying new ones; it could be that they are simply dirty.
If, after you have washed your blades, you don’t notice an improvement in your wipers’ function, measure your blades or take them to the shop with you to make sure that you buy the correct size; remember that both blades may not be the same size.
How to replace windscreen wiper blades
- Raise the wiper arm from the windscreen and hold it at right-angles from the screen. Be careful to hold it steady, as it is spring-loaded and could spring back and crack your windscreen. It may be a good idea to place a piece of cloth on the windscreen to protect it in case you lose grip of the blade.
- Unhook the rubber blade from the metal or plastic blade; this will be held in place with a pin or a rubber hook.
- Slide your new wiper into place, and secure it using the hook or pins.
If you are in any doubt about the safety of your windscreen wiper blades, or are not confident replacing them yourself, contact a local garage, who will be able to check and replace them for a small fee.