The wiper blades you have on your front, and sometimes rear, windshields have one purpose: to clear debris from your auto glass so you can see clearly through them. However, when it comes to regular vehicle maintenance, windshield wiper blades are often forgotten about. A good rule of thumb is to replace your wiper blades every six months — or to at least have them checked every six months. There are many factors to keep in mind when it comes to the life of your wipers. For instance, the quality of the blades, the environment/climate in which you live, and the ways you use your vehicle, can all help determine the frequency of when you should replace your blades.
Six Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades
The auto glass pros at Denver Mobile Auto Glass always have your safety in mind, which is why today, they’ll share with you the six signs that it’s time to replace your wiper blades. Whether you want our expert opinion on the wiper blades we recommend, or you need a windshield replacement, give your Top Rated Local® auto glass company a call and tell us how we can help you. In the meantime, here is a guide to help you determine when it’s time to change your wipers.
Frayed Wiper Blades
If your wiper blades appear to literally be falling apart, it’s time replace them. When the rubber squeegee blade is frayed, cracked, falling off the metal frame, or missing, the wiper blade can’t function properly, and could actually harm the surface of your windshield.
You Hear Scratching Sounds
If you hear loud squeaks or scratching sounds when you run your blades, this is a sign that the rubber blade is either worn down or missing. When it’s in this state, it cannot properly clear your windows of even the lightest debris such as raindrops or snowflakes.
Constant Smudging and Smearing
When your wipers leave smudges and smears, this is actually doing more harm than good. This can make it impossible for a driver to clearly see through their windshield, which is dangerous to them, their passengers, and other drivers.
Windshield Never Seems Clean
If there is a constant layer of dirt on your windshield, your wipers probably need to be replaced. Additionally, if the metal frame on your blades is exposed, it can scratch your windshield, making it difficult to see even after you replace the blades.
Blades Don’t Make Contact
Whether your wiper blade frame has been damaged or the rubber squeegee has simply worn away, when your wiper blades don’t make contact with your auto glass, they can’t clean them efficiently. Inspect the wipers for a bend in the frame that may be keeping them from making contact with your windshield. Otherwise, if the rubber blade is missing, it’s time to replace the blades.
Ice Accumulation
Wintertime in Colorado is when you need your blades most, but if all your wipers are doing is catching clumps of ice that make it harder to see through your windshield, they need to be replaced. What’s more, the ice can capture other kinds of debris like dirt and mud, which can make it even harder for your blades to move under the weight. More debris means more chance for buildup and smearing, which is hazardous while driving.
Contact the Auto Glass Experts
It’s important to change your wiper blades regularly to not only ensure you can see clearly through your windshield, but to also avoid damaging your front and rear windshields. If you have questions about the wiper blades we recommend, or you need to schedule auto glass repairs or a windshield replacement in Denver, call us! We’ll get you back on the road in a safer vehicle with strong and sturdy auto glass.