by Lori Straus

Windshield wipers cost so little to replace and yet when they start to break down, they can create some serious trouble by not properly clearing windshields. In this blog post, we’ll cover a few maintenance tips for windshield wipers and then quickly explain how to replace them when the time comes.

How to Get More Life out of Your Windshield Wipers

The blades on windshield wipers are usually made of rubber and therefore breakdown with exposure to temperature fluctuations, friction, and precipitation. You can help lengthen the life of your windshield wiper blades by following these tips:

• Keep your windshield clean. The more road dirt and grime the wipers have to wash away, the more friction you’re creating. Although you should certainly expect your wipers to clean off anything that gets splashed on your windshield while you’re driving, be sure to wipe your windshield clean as needed by hand at home.
• Never use your windshield wipers to clear away ice. This is like rubbing sandpaper on your skin. Use your winter windshield washer fluid and a scraper to remove the ice off your windshield.
• Occasionally wipe your blades clean with a damp cloth.
• The jury is out on whether to keep blades lifted when not in use in the winter. To be on the safe side, and to speed up getting ready for work in the morning, buy third-party covers that go over your wipers and your windshield. In the morning, simply remove them, shake off the snow and ice, and store them away for when return at the end of the day.

Buying Replacement Windshield Wipers

Once you notice damage to your windshield wipers, it’s time for a replacement. This is something you can likely do yourself so long as you have the proper blades with you.

Always check your owner’s manual for any specifications first. For example, windshield wipers typically come in two styles: those that connect with a pin and those that connect with a hook. You’ll need to also know the length of each wiper. Don’t assume both wipers are the same length, because sometimes the wiper on the driver’s side is shorter than the one on the passenger’s side.

Lastly, don’t rush for the cheapest wipers or the most expensive ones. You’ll likely be fine with something in the mid-price range.

How to Replace Your Windshield Wipers

Replace both right away, even if one wiper blade doesn’t appear too damaged or damaged at all. If one blade is already damaged, chances are the second blade isn’t far behind, and life is just easier when you aim for prevention instead of waiting for a problem to arise.

1. Pull the blades up so they are perpendicular to your windshield.
2. Disengage the lock on the blade—push down on a hook-type blade, pull the locking tab up on a pin-type blade.
3. Remove the blade from the arm.
4. As a precaution, place the old blade on your car in such a way that if the arm snaps back down, it won’t impact your windshield. This could cause a crack.
5. Place the new blade on the arm and lock it into place.
6. Lay the arm back along the windshield.
7. Repeat with the other wiper.
8. You’re done!

What to Do with Your Old Wiper Blades

Did you know you have options for disposing of your old wiper blades that don’t involve throwing them into the trash can? Some localities offer recycling programs if you separate the rubber from the metal, so check online if that option is available to you. Another one is to use your old blades to make a wind chime. We’re not joking.