How To Replace Your Windshield Wipers

We’ve all been there before — it starts to rain or snow, and we realize our windshield wipers are streaky, broken, or just not up to the task of keeping the windshield clean. Visibility is vital to staying safe, especially when driving in inclement weather. Regularly replacing your windshield wipers can help you improve visibility. If you think your wipers are worn or broken, it’s essential to replace them as soon as you can. Here’s everything you need to know about replacing wipers, why it’s necessary, and how often.

Why Is It Important to Replace Wipers?

Windshield wipers are just a tiny part of your vehicle, but they can significantly impact safety. When your wipers move over the glass, they should glide without creating friction, smearing, smudging, squeaking, or streaking. If wipers are damaged, they may not contact the windshield properly. Here’s why it’s essential to replace your windshield wipers regularly.

• Increase visibility: High-quality, well-maintained windshield wipers can provide a crystal-clear windshield in tough driving situations. This is especially important when it’s raining because it gives you a clear view of the road and helps you identify and avoid obstructions.
• Avoid distraction: A squeaky or streaky windshield wiper may distract you from driving. Repetitive noises or marks on the windshield can also draw your attention away from driving and make it less safe.
• Prevent scratches: In a worst-case scenario, a windshield wiper may deteriorate so much that a complex piece of plastic or metal rests on your glass instead of the intended material. If you turn on the wipers, this may cause a scratch across the glass of your windshield.

How Often Should You Replace Your Wipers?

A general rule for maintaining your wipers is to replace them every six to 12 months, but it’s best to assess your wipers rather than relying on the rule. Some wipers may need replacing far before six months. The quality of your wipers, sun exposure, oils, sand, mud, and dust can all determine how quickly your windshield wipers deteriorate.

For example, if you store your car in a garage and mostly drive on the highway, your wipers may deteriorate slower than those of someone who stores their vehicle outside and frequently goes off-roading or mudding. It’s important to change the wipers when you notice any wear or tear or when the blades no longer make contact with the glass. It can be tempting to wait when you notice these signs, but you’ll thank yourself for taking action when driving in the rain with great visibility.

Signs It May Be Time to Change Your Wipers

It’s a good idea not to go with the same wipers for a year, as wipers can deteriorate even if you don’t drive your vehicle very often. Other than smudging, squeaking, and streaking, there can be different signs that replacing your wipers is time. If you’re unsure, here are some things to check:

• Inspect the edges of the wiper squeegee. If the edges of the wiper are worn down, frayed, or cracked, they may not function properly.
• Look for visible damage. Cracks, missing pieces, tearing, or shredded plastic can all signal that it’s time to get a shiny new pair of wipers for your car.
• Check for flexibility. The blade should be flexible and conform to the windshield’s shape. If it’s too stiff, it may not work right.
• Make sure the blade is attached securely. You can pull on the end of the wiper gently to ensure the blade is still securely attached to your car. It may come off while driving and using the wipers if it wiggles or is too loose.

How to Replace Your Windshield Wipers

The first step in changing your own windshield wipers is making sure you get high-quality blades that fit your vehicle. If you’re unsure what size to get, you can always talk to one of our friendly experts. For high-quality wipers from the best brands, check out our parts selection. We carry Subaru-approved parts, including windshield wipers that are just right for your car or SUV.

Getting the right windshield wipers can help you retain the value of your car by ensuring they don’t damage your windshield. After you have the wipers right for your vehicle, you can lift them away from the windshield so they’re standing up straight. Then, open up the little tabs where the blade connects to the wiper and pull the blade off. Do the same for the other wiper until both wipers are blade-less.

Take your new blades and hook them onto the wiper. Pay attention to where the old blades come off to help you better understand how to put the new ones on. After hooking the blade on, pull up until you hear a click, which indicates the blade is securely on the wiper. After you install the new blade, lower the wiper back down so it touches the windshield in the resting position.

Make It Easy at Huffines Subaru Corinth

Changing your windshield wiper blades can be a pain, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of trying to replace the wipers alone, you can bring your vehicle to the Huffines Subaru Corinth service center, where we treat every car with Subaru love. Our customer service is top-notch, and we always ensure you understand what we’re doing with your vehicle.

Besides changing your wipers, we offer oil changes, tire rotation and replacement, alignment, battery checks and changes, transmission maintenance and repair, and brake servicing. We’re your one-stop shop for everything you need to keep your car in tip-top shape. Our certified technicians are highly trained and can tackle any problem with your car. We won’t rest until you’re satisfied with the service you’ve received.

We hope this guide has been helpful if you’re wondering when to change your wipers or how to do it yourself. Maintaining your vehicle is important for retaining value and improving safety, and windshield wipers are no exception. If enjoying our waiting room while we take care of all the heavy lifting sounds good, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our friendly team members so you can schedule services today.