Regularly inspecting and replacing your wiper blades probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list, in fact, it might not be on your to-do list at all.
The lifespan of a windscreen wiper is typically between six months and a year, but it varies dependant on usage, weather conditions, and blade quality. If you’ve had yours for longer than 12 months, they’ve probably started to degrade.
Ensuring your wipers function properly is crucial – not only for your own safety but also to comply with the law. Reduced visibility can be dangerous, so it’s important to replace your wipers as soon as they start to hinder your view.
If you’re not sure whether it’s time for a replacement, then look out for these tell-tale signs.
Skipping
Skipping tends to strike just after the summer, when your wiper blades have been sitting idle for months.
The constant cycle of heating and cooling under the sun can warp them out of shape, leaving you with streaky, ineffective wipes. To keep your blades in top form, try parking in a garage or under a carport when the weather is warmest. If this isn’t an option, then throw on a car cover to protect your blades from the sun. When you’re out and about, try parking in a shady spot to keep your vehicle cool and protect your wipers.
Squeaking
The notorious squeaking sound is a clear sign that your wiper blades need replacing—preferably sooner rather than later, before it drives you and your passengers crazy!
The most likely reason your wiper blades are making noise is improper installation. If they’re too tight, the added resistance can create a squeaking sound. On the other hand, if they’re too loose, they’ll drag across the windshield, producing an equally annoying clamour.
If you’re not confident enough to tackle wiper arms yourself, why not book in a free 5 Point Spring Car Check and let the experts handle it? We’ll check the condition of your wiper blades and assess whether you’re due a fresh set.
Streaking
If you notice streaks on your windscreen after using your wipers, a couple of culprits could be to blame.
Firstly, the rubber on your blades may have started to wear down and degrade. Small cracks and splits may be visible – if you can see these, then it’s time for a replacement.
If you can’t see any visible signs of wear, then mud, road grit or other particles on your windscreen might be causing your wipers to streak. Investing in a good washer fluid such as the Halfords Berry Screenwash for your vehicle will leave your windscreen sparkling and your wipers performing as they should.
Smearing
Smearing, much like streaking, is caused by worn down blades or a dirty windscreen. Smearing is easier to identify that streaking, as most of your windscreen will be covered in muck – causing a significant reduction in your ability to see the road.
Once your wiper blades are at this stage, it’s important to take action to keep yourself and other road users safe. Try cleaning your wiper blades using a sponge, soapy water and surgical spirit. If this doesn’t solve the smear, then it’s time to get a new blade.
Visit our Wiper Blades Buyer’s Guide for guidance on wiper blade cleaning.
If you’ve identified any of the above problems with your wiper blades, then it may be time for a replacement. You can find our top recommended wiper blades for your vehicle by using our handy blade finder tool.
Halfords Motoring Club
By joining the Halfords Motoring Club today, you’ll get access to a range of amazing benefits and discounts that are designed to keep you moving, keep you safe and keep you saving.
It’s free to join and you’ll receive money off your MOT, a free car health check, and a welcome voucher that can be spent on any Halfords product or service, including our range of windscreen wipers.
Or choose our Premium membership for a small monthly fee of £4.99 (£59.88 total) or £49 annually to unlock exclusive member pricing on all motoring products and services online and across our stores, garages, and Halfords Mobile Experts, as well as a variety of other benefits that will help you to keep moving for less.