When to Replace your Windshield Wipers
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Your windshield wipers are one of the hardest working parts of your Toyota. They wipe away everything from the San Diego rain to dust to dirt for good visibility and safety. But like all other automotive parts, they’ll wear down with time, decreasing their functionality and your visibility. This can result in a collision.
With that said, it’s important to replace them regularly to maintain your safety. Unfortunately, with so many internal components, many drivers forget about maintaining their windshield wipers. So to help you stay on top of your maintenance schedule and avoid collisions, Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego has provided your guide to when to replace your windshield wipers .
Recommended Time Frame
It’s recommended that you replace your windshield wipers every six months to one year regardless of how often they’re activated. This is because the amount of use isn’t the only factor that dictates their life span. Windshield wiper deterioration is caused by sun exposure, airborne debris, air moisture (especially for those living near the beaches San Diego), and car waxes.
Windshield Wipers Warning Signs
There are instances where your wipers can wear down faster than six months, so you’ll want to keep your eyes open for the following common warning signs that indicate it’s time to replace your windshield wipers:
- Streaks when wiping the windshield
- Cracks and tears in the rubber squeegee
- Metal corrosion and rust on mechanical arm
- Detached joints on mechanical arm
The second your windshield wipers begin wear down, your visibility is compromised and your chances of a collision increase. These signs are usually the first indicators of excessive wear and tear, so if you notice any of them when you activate your wipers, you’ll want to replace them immediately.
Preventative Maintenance
To extend the life and performance of your windshield wipers, it’s best to refrain from overworking them. This means keeping them at a low speed when it’s drizzling and turning them off promptly after it stops raining.
Another way to maintain your wipers is regularly cleaning them with rubbing alcohol to remove any damaging particles. Last, but not least, you should keep your windshield clear of debris such bird droppings and dirt to avoid tears in the squeegee.
What You Need to Know
Replacing your windshield wipers is fairly easy. However, there are a few key details you need to know before you buy your replacement pairs.
It’s important to know that not all wipers are equal. There are different types and they all come in a variety of sizes. You need to make sure the ones you get fit properly onto your vehicle. So check the owner’s manual for your car’s specific wiper measurements.
You’ll also want to replace both wipers at the same time. This doesn’t mean to wait until they’re both worn down. Once one shows a difference in performance, head to the store and buy both the passenger and driver wipers for complete visibility.
Driving with worn-down windshield wipers isn’t just annoying, it’s also dangerous. So be sure to keep an eye out for warning signs and replace them every six months to one year to maintain your visibility and safety on the road ahead.
For more information about when to replace your windshield wipers, visit Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego near Escondido and Kearny Mesa and talk to our service experts to learn more or schedule a service appointment today.