What Wiper Blades Do I Need? When To Replace + How

Whether it is bugs, dirt, or torrential rain, being unable to see out of your windscreen is both annoying and dangerous. It can make driving hard and even lead to severe car accidents.

That's why it is important to maintain your wiper blades and replace them when needed. If they're broken, misshapen, or fail to properly clear away debris, then it's time for servicing. However, not all wiper blades are made equal.

They differ in size, length, and base materials according to your particular car. Some are designed by vehicle manufacturers, while others are specially made by third-parties for certain needs. If you're wondering, "what wiper blades do I need?", you can find out by:

• Checking your owner's manual
• Searching up the make and model of your vehicle online
• Consulting with a mechanic

Let's explore when your wiper blades need to be replaced, the kind of wiper you need, and how to change them out.

When Do You Need New Windscreen Wipers?

Windscreen wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time, due to exposure from the elements and general wear and tear. Depending on how frequently they're used, wipers can begin to weaken in as little as 6 months, though most don't need replacement until 12 months.

Even if yours appear to be in good condition, it's recommended to change them out every year to ensure you always have maximum visibility of the road. If you're unsure about when to invest in new wiper blades, keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Wipers leaving streaks or blank spots
• Wipers failing to move over the windscreen smoothly
• Wipers not making proper contact with the windscreen, or leaving some parts dry
• Cracks or rough edges on the rubber blades

If your wipers aren't performing at their best, but don't need a full replacement yet, then a cleaning will help improve their performance. Wipe them with a damp sponge or rag, and use mild dish soap to remove any debris. This will help the blades make better contact with the windscreen.

Why Do You Need To Replace Your Windscreen Wipers?

An unclean windscreen is a safety hazard for drivers. Not only can a lack of visibility cause accidents, but it can also damage your car. If the rubber blade is damaged, then the wiper arm may rub against the glass directly, ruining the windscreen over time and increasing the likelihood of cracks in the glass.

If your windscreen wipers aren't effective, then it can also result in an MOT failure. That makes it wise to check your wipers before your MOT test and arrange for replacements if necessary.

Choosing Your New Windscreen Wipers

If new windscreen wipers are needed, this means replacing the blades – in particular, the rubber strip that makes contact with the glass. These are measured in inches, with sizes ranging from 10-32 inches, and one side is often different from the other.

To determine which size of windscreen wiper blade you need, check your vehicle handbook or use our windscreen wiper tool to find the right size for your vehicle.

You can also visit a garage like Autofusion for a consultation. We keep stock of a wide variety of replacement wiper blades, which are designed to fit most cars and vans. Our mechanics not only source the right blades for your vehicle, but also fit them into place.

Visit us today or give us a call for more information.