Windshield wiper blades in good condition are important to your
safety
Copyright 2005 Marc Deschamps
Tell me how your windshield wiper blades are and I will tell you
the condition of your car. Worn out wiper blades are symptoms of
neglected vehicle maintenance that put drivers and passengers at
serious risk during rainy or snowy periods.
Rainy or snowy weather also affects driver visibility and
control of the vehicle. Because 90 percent of driving decisions
depend on good vision, a clean windshield is imperative.
Streaking and smearing impair vision and are caused by worn
windshield blades. One out of every five vehicles that goes
through an inspection has worn wiper blades.
Replacement wiper blades are inexpensive and they are easy to
change. Why put it off until there's a downpour or a major
snowfall and your blades are chattering and smearing the
windshield?
Do you need different windshield wiper blades for the winter
period ?
We all tend to run to the auto parts store when winter is
approaching, to get winter replacement wiper blades. Usually,
winter blades are covered with a rubber membrane which are
supposed to better fight against icing. However, before you make
the purchase you should carefully check them. Several types of
winter blades listed in catalogs of aftermarket parts or even
those recommended by car manufacturers are not that effective.
Several models are shorter than the "summer version" and do not
cover enough windshield surface. Others are long enough but do
not have the "banana" shape allowing for proper contact on the
windshield over the full lenght. In either case this results in
reduced visibility for the driver.
Windshield wiper blades should be checked regularly to ensure
they offer maximum performance. If you need to replace them do
not compromise on the quality and ensure they provide good
coverage and adherance to the windhield. If you are unsure if
the model you are considering meets those criterias ask the auto
parts store about their return/credit policy. Once tested, you
should be allowed to return them if the results are not
conclusive.
Also, don't be afraid to ask your local mechanic for some sound
advice. They constantly replace wiper blades on a wide range of
car models and they should be able to tell you about the do's
and don't for your particular vehicle.
Replacing windshield wiper blades should be simple process .....
but don't jump the gun and make a quick desision. You may regret
it next time you drive rainy or snowy weather.