Windshield Wipers: How to Tell When They Need Replacing and What to Look For
When your windshield wipers, the rubber blades that clear rain, snow, and debris from your car’s front glass. Also known as wiper blades, they’re one of the most overlooked safety features on any vehicle. If they’re streaking, chattering, or leaving smears, you’re not just dealing with a nuisance—you’re driving with reduced visibility. In the UK, where rain is frequent and road spray is constant, bad wipers can turn a short drive into a dangerous gamble.
Wiper blades, the replaceable rubber strips that make contact with the windshield wear out faster than most people realize. Most last 6 to 12 months, depending on weather, sun exposure, and how often you use them. Even if they don’t look cracked, the rubber can harden and lose its flexibility, making them ineffective. The wiper arm, the metal part that presses the blade against the glass can also bend or lose tension, causing uneven pressure and missed spots. And if you hear a grinding noise or the wipers stop mid-sweep, that’s often the wiper motor, the electric unit that drives the entire system starting to fail.
You don’t need a mechanic to check your wipers. Just turn them on with a spray of washer fluid. If the blades skip, leave streaks, or don’t clear the glass fully, it’s time for a replacement. Don’t wait until it’s pouring—by then, you’ve already compromised your safety. Replacing wiper blades is one of the easiest DIY jobs on any car, and it costs less than a coffee at most garages. But if the arms are bent or the motor won’t respond, those are bigger issues that need proper attention.
What you’ll find below are real-world guides from drivers and mechanics who’ve dealt with everything from frozen winter blades to summer sun damage. You’ll learn how to pick the right size, how to spot fake or low-quality replacements, and why some brands last twice as long as others. There’s no fluff—just clear, practical advice on keeping your view clear, no matter the weather.
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