Usually, car owners forget about their windshield wipers until bad weather hits. Then, instead of clearing the window, the blades streak across, limiting visibility. Rather than finding yourself in this situation, change your blades regularly. Typically, how to replace windshield wipers is an easy process.
How To Replace Windshield Wipers In 3 Easy Steps
Usually, environmental factors are the reason for the deterioration of wiper blades. UV sunlight, airborne dirt, and acid rain can all cause blade degradation. However, it’s fairly simple to change your wiper blades:
1. Generally, you want the wiper assembly at a 90-degree angle to the windshield. Gently pull the wiper blade arms into this position.
2. Remove the worn blades. For some cars, you need to push a button, while others require you to unlatch a hook. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your automobile.
3. Install windshield wipers making sure they’re locked in place.
While the procedure on how to remove wiper blades appears fairly simple, sometimes problems arise. If you browse some automotive forums, often you’ll find a car owner having difficulty either removing or installing blades. That’s where the experts at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville can help. Our team has experience with nearly every type of vehicle and windshield wiper problem.
Types of Wiper Blades
Typically, most experts recommend you change your wiper blades every 6-12 months. However, the climate you live in affects this time frame. Harsh environmental factors can shorten your blade’s life.
Yet, before you begin to install windshield wipers, you’ll have to buy the replacements. While learning how to remove wiper blades is easy, finding the right part is a bit more complicated.
First, not all wiper blades are the same size, even on the same automobile. Using the wrong length will interfere with your wipers’ ability to clean your windshield. Check your owner’s manual for the correct size for your car.
Besides size, windshield wipers are also available in conventional, beam, or hybrid styles. Conventional wipers are flatter with a metal frame to hold the blade. These have only 6-8 pressure points to make contact with the windshield. Unlike conventional, beam-style curves match the contour of modern cars’ windshields and are frameless. With infinite pressure points, the entire length of the blade remains in contact with the windshield.
Finally, hybrid wipers combine the best of the other types at a lower price than beam-style. Like conventional, hybrids have a frame but it’s enclosed in plastic for an aerodynamic design. Furthermore, hybrids operate similarly to beam wipers offering complete contact with the windshield.
Moreover, even if your car comes equipped with conventional wiper blades, you can switch to one of the other types. Is it worth the expense of upgrading to a beam style? Usually, the answer to this question depends on the type of weather in your area.
Silicone Vs. Rubber
When Mary Anderson invented the windshield wiper in the early 1900s, she used a rubber blade. For decades, automakers continued to use rubber as it’s cost-effective while providing good performance.
Today, car owners also have the additional choice of silicone wiper blades. Generally, this material is much more resistant to varying temperatures and can last a lot longer. Additionally, most have a special coating that repels water leaving you with a clearer view.
How To Replace Windshield Wipers – FAQs
If you’ve been trying to figure out how to replace windshield wipers, bring your car to Xpress Lube instead. We can help you decide on the best type of wiper blade for your vehicle. Below, we answer a few frequently asked questions about windshield wipers.
What Are Some Signs Telling Me It’s Time Replace My Windshield Wiper Blades?
Usually, you can tell you need new wiper blades by the following signs:
- There are cracks in the blades
- Your blades leave streaks instead of clearing the windshield
- As the blades move across the windshield, they make a chattering sound
Driving with worn wiper blades can make driving during bad weather difficult. Additionally, if you fail to change your blades, you can eventually damage your windshield. Speaking of replacing your wiper blade, check out some of these spring maintenance tips to keep your care prepared.
Can I Fail An NC Safety Inspection With Bad Wipers?
One of the most important aspects of driving is having an awareness of your surroundings. Road debris and wet or icy conditions can affect a car’s handling. Thus, good visibility is crucial for accident prevention.
This is why during an NC safety inspection, the technician will check to make sure your windshield wipers are working properly. The inspector will also check the blades to make sure they’re free from any noticeable damage.
How Much Will A Wiper Blade Replacement Cost?
Earlier in this article, we discussed the different types, conventional, beam, and hybrid as well as the material, rubber or silicone. Your price varies depending on which material and wiper type you choose.
Why Should I Choose Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville?
For over a quarter of a century, we’ve been serving the greater Kernersville community with outstanding automobile service. Our 4 ASE-certified mechanics and support staff work in a modern facility with the latest technology. We can fix both small problems like replacing your windshield wipers and large ones like transmissions.
Before the next big storm hits, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. You can make an appointment by calling 336-993-7697 or use our online form. With friendly service and competitive prices, try us and you’ll find out why our customers stay with us for years.
