Tips on the Importance of Wiper Blades

To keep your vehicle at its optimal operation level, it is important to consider every function of your vehicle, including the wiper blades. Considering that 90 percent of your driving decisions are based on how well you see the road, having a clear and unobstructed view through your windshield is essential for safety.

It is recommended that you replace your wiper blades every 6 months or 6,000 miles as there are many factors that can contribute to your windshield wiper blades' deterioration. These can include:

• Weather is the chief factor of wiper blade wear. Freezing temperatures can make the rubber parts hard and brittle which can lead to cracking and/or tearing. In the opposite, hot temperatures can warp the rubber and prevent the wiper blade from wiping your windshield effectively.

• As with many of the components of your vehicle, heavy use can cause wear on parts. For the wiper blades, the dust, abrasives, grime from the road and bugs can wear away on the cutting edge of the blade, wearing away the flat surface needed for efficient clearing of your windshield.

• Rubber deteriorates over time, so as the blades age they can lose flexibility and the ability to wipe cleanly. They may also possibly develop a permanent set or curvature which can prevent the full contact needed with the windshield for optimal usage.

• Exposure to sunlight and ozone can also cause the wiper blades to age regardless of how often they are used. Airborne contaminants, oil or pollutants also can weaken and reduce their ability to keep your view unobstructed.
Many factors relate to your wiper blades' ability to clean your windshield effectively. These are:

• The size and slope of your windshield. In many of today's car designs, the windshields are sloped for improved aerodynamics. The "cab-forward" design directs more wind against the wipers which can cause the blades to lose close contact with the glass at high speeds unless the wiper system has been designed to resist lifting.

• The spring tension in the wiper arm. Tight contact with the windshield from the spring tension is essential for effective cleaning to provide an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

• The amount of pressure points that hold the blade. Also called "claws", the more the better is the rule.
The more that a blade has, the broader the area the pressure of the wiper arm is spread. This also can provide more flexibility for the blade to follow the curvature of the windshield for better side-to-side contact.

The material used in the blade manufacture. Commonly, wiper blades are made of natural rubber, however some newer blades on the market are now made from a composite structure combining a soft flexible rubber on the surface for squeegee-like wiping and a firmer rubber in the body of the blade for support and durability.

When considering replacing your wiper blades, it is important to check with your ASE Certified Technician for their recommendations of types of blades and brands for your vehicle.