January 18, 2023
Changing your car’s windshield wipers when they’re worn out is crucial for driving visibility and safety.
While most would agree on the importance of having good windshield wiper blades when you need them, it’s easy to wait too long and only realize you need a new pair when you’re caught in a storm. In preparation for winter driving, we look at when to replace wiper blades, how to find the right replacements, and how to put them on.
Most manufacturers recommend changing your wiper blades every 6-12 months. How often you need to replace windshield wipers depends on many factors including the type of wiper blades you use, how often you drive, and where you live. For instance, snow and extreme weather may cause the rubber on your wipers to become brittle and break down faster, meaning you may need to replace your blades more often. Alternatively, if your car is parked in a garage, your blades could last much longer.
A good way to check if you need new wipers is to use your windshield washer once a month and see how well your blades wipe the windshield. If your car wipers aren’t cleaning your windshield, it could mean they need an adjustment, or it’s time to replace them. Specific signs that your wiper blades need to be changed include:
Streaking from old wiper blades.
If your wiper blades leave a lot of streaks or smears, this may mean the rubber on the windshield wipers is worn out. Before replacing your windshield wipers, try cleaning them with soapy water and wiping the rubber part of the blade with rubbing alcohol. If you still see significant streaks, it’s probably time to get new wiper blades.
Listening to your wipers as they pass over your windshield is also a good way to tell if it’s time to replace them. Scraping, chattering, or squeaking sounds mean your blades are not effectively cleaning your windshield because they’re not making proper contact.
If your wipers still leave moisture, debris, or dust on your windshield, it’s likely the rubber part is so damaged it’s no longer wiping away obstructions and you’ll need to get new ones.
Choosing new windshield wipers that are compatible with the connectors on your car’s wiper arms and the correct size for your car’s make, model, and year is key to ensuring you get the best driving visibility during rainy or snowy weather.
Installing new blades that are too short will clear a smaller area and may leave your field of view obstructed. New blades that are too long could result in them hitting the top of your windshield or each other, damaging the arm.
A new wiper blade kit with an adapter.
When buying new wiper blades, it’s important to know that manufacturers use many different types of connectors to attach the wiper blade to the arm. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wiper blades from your car dealer or manufacturer are designed specifically for your vehicle, so you won’t need an adapter.
Aftermarket wiper blades are made to fit as many different vehicle models as possible, so they may come with multiple optional adapters. To choose the right adapter, you’ll need to know what type of connector your car uses.
Frame-type (left) and beam-type wiper blades are the 2 primary types of blades on the market today.
Frame or conventional windshield wipers are the most common and affordable type of blade. Frame wipers are designed to be flatter with rubber blades that are attached to a metal frame and apply pressure to the windshield at specific contact points.
Beam blades or frameless wipers are increasingly popular because they’re more flexible and aerodynamic. Because they aren’t mounted to a metal frame, beam wipers are curved and provide even, constant contact with the windshield across the entire length of the blade.
Manufacturers claim that beam wipers have greater wind resistance, last longer than conventional blades, and perform better in winter climates.
Most cars originally equipped with frame wipers can accommodate aftermarket beam wipers. Some manufacturers also make "hybrid" blades that are a combination of the 2 types.
Windshield wiper measurements are taken from the rubber part of the wiper blade from end to end.
Keep in mind that your wiper blades may be different lengths. Usually, the blade on the driver’s side will be longer to clear a larger visibility area for the person behind the wheel.
Once you have your replacement windshield wipers, follow the included manufacturer’s instructions, which will typically include how to remove your old wiper blades, which adapter to use (if applicable), and how to attach the new wiper blades.
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