When you’re thinking about ensuring the safety of your car, windshield wipers may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But making sure your windshield wipers are ready for any weather is important. Roadway Insurance, a MAIF insurance provider, highlights helpful tips for keeping your wipers in their best shape.
Check Them Regularly
Your windshield wipers should be checked at least every six months and changed at least once a year, but more may be needed. Check both the rubber and the metal part to make sure that everything is in good shape. Though the metal doesn’t actually touch your windshield, it needs to be in working order so that the mechanism performs properly.
Many factors can impact the state of your wipers. If your car is out in the sun frequently and you don’t park in a garage, the rubber can dry and crack from the constant light. Certain components in car wax and exhaust can cause the rubber to break down. And, of course, snow, ice, and rain take their toll.
Keep Your Windshield Clean
If you have dirt and debris on your windshield, the wipers can be damaged when you go to use them next. You may notice that your windshield is streaky and there seems to be a film you can’t get rid of. This is a sign the wipers need to be changed. You can help extend the life of them by cleaning your windshield every time you get gas and wiping down the rubber wiper blade itself.
Pull the Blades Away From the Car
During the winter months, pull the wiper blades off of the windshield every time you park. This prevents them from getting bogged down and stuck to the windshield because of snow and ice. Ice can build up on the rubber parts, rendering your wipers useless when you need to use them to see.
Don’t Use Them to Clear Ice
It’s always tempting to get in your car, blast the defrost, and use your windshield wipers and fluid to get rid of the ice and snow built up on your windshield. But this increases the wear and tear on the blades by a lot, meaning you’ll have to replace them much sooner than normal. You can buy a windshield de-icer or make a natural one at home to help get your windshield clear faster, without damaging your wiper blades.
Contact Your MAIF Insurance Provider
If you get stuck with damaged wiper blades or other issues in a snowstorm, consider emergency roadside assistance to use as a backup. We’re also here to make sure you have the right insurance plan at the right price for you. Call us or get a free quote online.