As winter approaches, windshieldwipers.com wants to ensure your vehicle is ready for the cold, wet, and sometimes snowy conditions is crucial. Among the many preparations, one often overlooked but essential task is preparing your windshield wiper blades. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get your wiper blades winter-ready:
1. Inspect Your Current Wiper Blades
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Visual Check: Look at your wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage. Check for cracks, tears, or if the rubber has become hard or brittle.
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Operational Test: Turn on your windshield wipers. Do they make a clear sweep across the windshield, or do they leave streaks or miss spots?
2. Clean the Blades Thoroughly
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Remove Debris: Use a mild soapy water solution to clean the blades. This removes dirt, grime, and any salt residue from previous winters.
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Inspect the Frame: Look at the metal or plastic frame of the wiper blade. If it’s corroded or bent, it might be time for a replacement.
3. Check the Wiper Fluid
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Type of Fluid: Winter requires a windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze at low temperatures. Look for one rated for sub-zero temperatures.
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Top Up: Ensure the reservoir is full. During winter, you'll use more fluid due to more frequent cleaning of salt, snow, and ice.
4. Consider Blade Replacement
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Age of Blades: Typically, wiper blades should be replaced every six months to a year, depending on usage. Winter is a harsh season, so if your blades are due or close to being due, now’s the time.
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Type of Blades: Consider our winter wiper blades that are designed with more durable rubber compounds. Our Silicone+ wiper blade is made for extreme weather conditions and also comes with embedded rain repellent.
5. Apply De-icer or Lubricant
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De-icer: Some products can be sprayed on the blades before a storm to prevent ice buildup. This can save you from having to chip ice off your blades.
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Lubricant: A silicone-based lubricant can help the rubber stay flexible in cold temperatures, reducing cracks and ensuring smooth operation.
6. Parking Strategy
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Blade Positioning: When parking in snowy conditions, leave your wiper blades up (if it’s safe to do so). This prevents them from getting embedded under snow or ice.
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Garage Use: If possible, park in a garage. This not only protects your wiper blades but also reduces the amount of ice and snow you need to clear off your car.
7. Regular Winter Checks
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Weekly Inspection: Once winter sets in, check your blades weekly. Look for ice buildup, snow accumulation, or any new damage.
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Operational Test: Frequently test your wipers to ensure they're still functioning correctly. Replace immediately if you notice any issues.
8. Emergency Kit
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Include in Kit: Keep an ice scraper and possibly a small brush in your car. Sometimes, manual clearing of the windshield and blades is necessary.
Preparing your windshield wiper blades for winter isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety. Clear visibility is paramount when driving in adverse conditions. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your wiper blades are up to the task, keeping your windshield clear and your drives safe throughout the winter months. Remember, preparation is proactive maintenance; it's about preventing problems before they arise. Stay safe, and drive prepared!
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