Parts for your 2016 Ford Fiesta-Wiper blades

Maintaining and Replacing the Wiper Blades on Your 2016 Ford Fiesta

The 2016 Ford Fiesta is equipped with wiper blades that are essential for maintaining clear visibility during rain or snow. Like any other vehicle component, they require regular maintenance and occasional replacement to ensure optimal performance. In this guide, we will explore how to maintain your Ford Fiesta's wiper blades and provide tips for replacement.

Wiper blades are often overlooked during vehicle maintenance, but they play a crucial role in ensuring safe driving conditions. Over time, blades can wear out due to exposure to various weather conditions such as extreme sun, cold, and rain. Worn-out blades will not effectively clear your windscreen, which can lead to poor visibility and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

1. Inspect Regularly: Regular inspection is key to maintaining your wiper blades. Look for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, splits, or any unevenness in the rubber. If the blades are not in contact with the windscreen uniformly, it's time to consider replacing them.
2. Clean the Blades: Dirt and grime collect on wiper blades, which can reduce their effectiveness. Clean the blades with a soft cloth and some soapy water. Ensure you also clean the windscreen to prevent quick re-accumulation of dirt.
3. Check for Streaks: If the wiper blades leave streaks or create noisy chatter, this might indicate that they are worn out or damaged. Sometimes, streaks can be due to stuck debris, so proper cleaning might solve the issue temporarily.
4. Replacement: If you notice signs of deterioration, it's best to replace your wiper blades. For the 2016 Ford Fiesta, you will typically find 24-inch blades for the driver's side and 16-inch blades for the passenger side. Always check the manual or the current blades for the correct size.
5. Choose the Right Blades: There are different types of wiper blades available, including conventional, beam, and hybrid. Beam blades are becoming more popular due to their durability and performance in adverse weather. Choose a type based on your specific driving conditions and personal preferences.

Replacing your wiper blades is a straightforward task that requires only a few minutes. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to follow:

1. Raise the Wiper Arm: Gently lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen until it locks in an upright position. Be cautious as the arm is spring-loaded and can snap back onto the glass.
2. Remove the Old Blade: Locate the release tab where the blade connects to the arm. Press or pull the tab to release the blade and slide it off the arm. Some models may have a hook instead of a tab, in which case you would need to unhook the blade.
3. Install the New Blade: Align the new blade with the wiper arm. If it's a hook-style arm, slide the hook into the opening on the blade and pull it tight until it clicks into place. For a pin-type connection, insert the pin and press firmly until secured.
4. Lower the Wiper Arm: Carefully lower the wiper arm back onto the windscreen once the new blade is securely attached.
5. Test the Wipers: After replacing, turn on the wipers to ensure they are functioning properly and make no unusual sounds or streaks.

Maintaining your wiper blades can extend their life and improve their performance. Consider these additional tips:

• Use a windscreen washer fluid that contains a mild detergent to keep the blades and windscreen clean.
• During winter, be cautious when clearing ice from your windscreen as this can damage the rubber on the blades.
• Park your car in the shade when possible to protect the blades from UV damage.

By making wiper blade maintenance and replacement a routine part of caring for your 2016 Ford Fiesta, you help ensure safer driving conditions. Don't wait for a streaky windscreen to remind you, proactive care can prevent most issues. Remember that high-quality wiper blades can make a significant difference, especially in challenging weather conditions. Keep an eye on their condition and act swiftly when replacement is necessary.