How to inspect and maintain your windscreen wipers
Peter Sitkowski | 9th Nov 2023 | 6 minutes to read
Ensuring a clear vision through the windscreen is a priority for every motorist navigating the roads. Windscreen wipers and wiper blades are incredibly important in maintaining optimal visibility during those unpredictable downpours.
In this sense, wipers aren’t simply important for maintain the aesthetics of your vehicle by wiping away dirt and grime, they are also a vital safety feature, allowing you to see during torrential rain, pushing aside sleet, and keeping your vision clear of obstacles.
This makes maintaining your wipers a crucial element in keeping your family safe and your windscreen clean and free of scratches.
Below are some of the steps you should take to inspect and maintain your windscreen wipers:
Inspecting Your Windscreen Wipers
The first step of proper windscreen wiper maintenance is learning what to look for when inspecting your wipers.
Begin by lifting the windscreen wipers away from the glass surface, allowing for unobstructed access to the blades. This will allow you to inspect the entirety of the wiper more easily.
Check for Visible Wear and Tear
If you’re hearing your windscreen wipers squeaking, it’s likely a sign of some physical issue with the wiper’s rubber.
Start by scrutinising the wiper blades for visible signs of wear and tear. Look for any cracks, nicks, or irregularities along the edges of the blades. In the summer, where harsh sunlight and intense heat are common, wiper blades are subjected to accelerated degradation. A meticulous examination enables drivers to identify potential issues early on, preventing sudden malfunctions during critical moments.
Moving on, inspect the rubber component of the wiper blades. Run a finger along the edge to feel for any roughness or unevenness. This will allow you to detect subtle imperfections that may compromise the efficacy of the wiper blades.
If there are major defects or damage, then you will want to replace the wiper blades entirely, which is a fairly simple process outlined in this Know How Video.
Proper Alignment of the Wipers
You will also want to check for proper alignment of the wiper blades. Misaligned blades can result in uneven wiping patterns, reducing visibility during adverse weather conditions. Rectifying alignment issues ensures consistent and effective operation and an even clean across the windscreen.
Make sure to check the wiper arm and pivot points. Ensure that these components are free from rust or corrosion, as such issues can impede the smooth movement of the wiper blades as well. This step is especially important if you’re in a climate that is particularly humid or has a lot of salt in the air, as metal components will be more prone to corrosion.
Check the Windshield Washer for Issues
Don't overlook the windshield washer system. Confirm that it functions seamlessly, delivering an adequate amount of washer fluid to facilitate efficient wiper operation. A reliable washer system is integral to driver safety in order to clean off dust and sticky debris to give you clear vision of the road.
Testing Your Wipers
As the final part of the process, test the wiper blades in action. Activate the wipers and observe their movement across the windscreen. Pay attention to any stuttering, skipping, or inadequate coverage.
How To Clean Your Windscreen Wipers
Once you have completed a thorough inspection of your wipers and wiper components, the best way to maintain them is to clean the blades and armature.
Before starting your cleaning process, the windscreen wipers should be lifted away from the windscreen for easy access to the wiper blades.
Start by ridding the wiper blades of accumulated dirt and grime. This detritus can compromise the effectiveness of the wipers, leaving streaks and hindering visibility. Pluck out any leaves, twigs, or other large foreign objects that might be stuck in the wipers before you start your clean.
Gently wipe the blades with a soapy sponge or, if you want a particularly thorough clean, you can use a sponge soaked in a mixture of vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol. This concoction acts as a potent elixir, dissolving the stubborn residues that adhere to the wiper blades.
Make sure you clean the edges thoroughly, as they bear the brunt of the dirt and grim when the wipers are activated and always be careful when cleaning your wipers, as they are fairly delicate.
Using a Rain Repellent on Your Wipers
Once the blades are scrubbed clean, the next step involves applying a rain repellent such as Rain-X. This step serves a dual purpose—lubricating the wiper blades and providing an additional layer of protection against rain and water. Rain repellents reduce friction and maximise the smooth operation of windscreen wipers. The application process is a breeze, requiring a simple spray or wipe to give the wiper blades full protection with the repellent.
Proper Upkeep of Your Windshield
Remember that the less your windshield wipers have to work, the less likely they are to require maintenance or replacement. Regularly cleaning your windscreen to keep encrusted dirt and dry detritus off the glass will help to avoid damage to the rubber on your wiper blades and make them last much longer.
A well-maintained windscreen helps keep your wipers in good shape.
Keep Your Wipers Tip Top at Repco
A systematic approach to windscreen wiper maintenance and inspection is indispensable and helps to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your wipers, even in harsh climates and weather conditions.
Always remember that wipers are a device built for safety just as much for cleanliness, so keeping them clean and avoiding excess wear and tear is an important of vehicle maintenance.
If you’re looking for where to buy windscreen wipers, we’ve got you covered at Repco. We stock a wide range of wiper blade replacements, as well as car care and cleaning products that can help you keep your wipers functioning at their best. Head into your local store or shop with us online to make your drive a safe one.
