Are you finding yourself having a hard time seeing during the rain? Effective windshield wipers are essential to both your safety and the safety of others on the road. While you may not think twice about your wiper blade health until an issue arises, thinking ahead could save you a lot of trouble. This leaves drivers with questions, such as “When do I need to change my wiper blades?” Chapel Hill Tire has the answers here to your common questions about windshield wiper blade replacements.
How Often Should I Change My Wiper Blades?
Many drivers make the mistake of waiting until their wiper blades are coming undone before having them replaced. For full effectiveness, your wiper blades need to be changed twice each year. This can be impacted, however, by your wiper blade brand quality, your usage patterns, and other external factors. If you are unsure whether or not you need new wiper blades, bring your vehicle by an expert for insight.
Do I Need New Windshield Wiper Blades?
Beyond just the twice-yearly replacement cadence, you can easily look for additional signs that your wiper blades need to be switched out.
- Ineffective wiper blades: Perhaps most obviously, the first and most prominent sign that you need new wiper blades is that they have become ineffective. Poor-functioning wipers are a sign that you are past due for replacements.
- Visual declination: You can also visually inspect your wipers for signs of declination, including tearing, rubber rot, and rusting beneath the rubber. These issues will render your windshield wipers incapable of proper functioning.
- Irregularities during use: Your wiper blades should swipe smoothly across the glass when you use them. If you notice any squeaking, streaking, or bouncing, this is a sign that you are due for new wiper blades.
When it comes to replacing your windshield wiper blades, it is always better safe than sorry. Waiting too long for this vehicle service can leave you facing hazards on the road.
Dangers of Waiting on Wiper Blade Replacements
Inclement weather can strike at any moment, and it is essential that you are ready. If you wait too long to get your wiper blades replaced, you could find yourself without the tools you need to safely drive in these conditions. In a best-case scenario, this could leave you waiting under an overpass for the rain to clear. In a worst-case scenario, you could create an accident or cause harm on the road.
Windshield wipers (paired with windshield wiper fluid) also work to clear away unexpected impairments that may obstruct your vision, including bugs, dirt, and more. For all of these reasons, wiper blade issues can also cause you to fail your vehicle safety inspection.
How Much Do New Wiper Blades Cost?
While we can’t speak for other mechanics, Chapel Hill Tire offers transparent pricing to take the guesswork and the deception out of service visits. New windshield wipers only cost $9.95-$14.95 at Chapel Hill Tire, depending on the brand and type you need. Best of all, this cost includes expert installation.
What Makes Wiper Blades Decline?
Like any other vehicle part, your wiper blades require care and maintenance. Wiper blades can become damaged by ice and overnight freezing during the winter. During the warmer months, your wipers can also be warped by the sun and the heat. These stressors accelerate the standard wear and tear that your wiper blades will experience during regular usage.
Chapel Hill Tire Local Wiper Blade Replacement
Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we install trusted wiper blade brands, such as Michelin, so that our customers can drive with confidence. Our professionals will inspect your wiper blades and install new, high-quality wipers that perfectly fit your vehicle. Make an appointment with your nearest Chapel Hill Tire mechanic location to get started today!