Even if you don't feel comfortable with some of the bigger car repair procedures and would rather leave those to a professional, there are still quite a few simple tasks you can do that don’t require special tools. One of these is checking and cleaning your wiper blades, and recognizing when they need to be replaced. Simple inspection like these can help you spot problems before they turn into more serious trouble, and if you don't do them you won't find out you need new blades until the worse possible moment - during a sudden downpour. Being vigilant on simple maintenance like this can ultimate save you money and keep you car looking and working like new.
Check Your Wiper Blades
- Step 1 - Lift the wiper arm from the glass until it locks in the upright position (on some cars there is no locking position), taking care not to allow it to spring back against the glass. If the arm doesn’t lock in position, just hold it firmly while you check the blade.
- Step 2 - Wipe the rubber cleaning edge of the blade using a clean cloth dipped in undiluted washer fluid or glass cleaner.
- Step 3 - Run a finger along the edge of the blade to check the rubber for damage. If there are any cracks or splits it is time for a new blade.
Change Your Wiper Blades
- Step 4 - To remove the old blade, first turn the blade at right angles to the arm. Some blades have securing tabs that need to be pressed to release before the blade can be removed. Note which way the blade fits before removing it to make it easier to install the new one properly.
- Step 5 - Depending on the type of wiper blade arm your car has, you may need to fit the correct adaptor to it – check the instructions supplied with the new blade for details.
- Step 6 - Fit the new blade to the arm, making sure to push it in fully until it snaps into place, then lower the arm gently onto the glass. Check that the wipers work before driving the car.
Buying new wiper blades
If you’re on a tight budget, you can buy wiper blade refills, which are just the rubber part, and save $20 or more on the pair. However, to fit these you need to dismantle the blade somewhat, which takes longer than just fitting an entire blade. Replacing the whole blade is also preferred because the springs that hold the blade against the glass weaken with age, so do it at least every few years.
You can buy new wiper blades from any auto parts store, many big box retailers (like Walmart), and even hardware and home improvement stores. If you happen to be at the dealer for some other service, they also carry them and will typically install them for free. When you go to buy new blades you’ll need to know the make, model, and the year of your car, or you can just bring one of the old blades in with you.