How Long Should My Wiper Blades Last?
Many factors, ranging from rain, ice, sleet, snow, mud, and debris, could affect your visibility while driving. And if you aren’t careful, poor visibility could lead to accidents, even fatal ones. This is why it’s important to make sure that your wiper blades are in good service and operating correctly.
How long does it take before wiper blades begin to show signs of wear? It all depends on how frequently their used and what they must clear from the windshield. For instance, if you use your wiper blades to clear rainwater from your windshield, they will last longer than another person who uses them to remove debris and waste from trees and birds.
Regardless of what we use them for, or how often we use them, windshield wiper blades will need to be replaced.
How Long Do Wiper Blades Last?
Ideally, your wiper blades should last between a year to two years. If you drive more than the national average of a little over 14,000 miles per year, your windshield wipers might have a shorter life span. However, if your wiper blades are damaged or are not cleaning your windshield, have them replaced immediately.
How Do You Know If Your Wipers Need Replacing?
Wiper blades must be replaced from time to time to make sure they are operating at their optimum performance. How do you know when it's time to replace your wiper blades? They will show signs that let you know they are bad. The following signs are indications that your wipers need replacing.
1. Streaking
This happens when worn blades warp from exposure to elements like automotive chemicals, road tar, and tree sap. When this happens, the rubber hardens or cracks and leaves streaks on your windshield.
2. Squeaking and Chatter
This is a result of aging. As your wiper blade ages, the rubber stiffens. A stiff wiper blade produces a squeaking sound when moving back and forth across the windshield.
3. Splitting Rubber
The rubber of your wiper blades can split after many hours of exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
4. Scooting
Wiper blades that have been on a vehicle for a very long time could show signs of corrosion. When this happens, the blades may skip across the windshield.
It’s important to inspect your wipers frequently for loose blades, bent or broken frames, corroded metal, stiff arms, and missing screws. If your wiper blades show any signs of damage, then it’s time to replace them. Replacement wiper blades are easily accessible and can be purchased from an automotive dealership, auto parts store or most service facilities. You can also purchase high-quality wiper blades online from reputable automotive stores like SilBlade®.
