How to inspect and replace wiper blades

Keeping your car's wiper blades in good nick is an important part of your general maintenance routine.

Faulty or worn wiper blades can be ineffective and may smudge your windscreen. And if they're not working properly, you may find your visibility is reduced when driving in challenging conditions like heavy rain or snow.

By following a few simple steps, you can ensure your wiper blades are in good shape.

How often should you inspect your wiper blades?

Inspect your wiper blades about every six months. Even if you don't use them very often, the rubber can deteriorate with time. If your wiper blades are faulty or worn, it's likely they won't be able to grip your windscreen properly. This means they won't be able to remove things like mud, rain or snow effectively.

Check your vehicle owner's manual or the packaging included with your wiper blades for the best info and, if in doubt, chat with your mechanic

When should you change your wiper blades?

Change your wiper blades as soon as you notice they're not making contact with your car's windshield. This may happen every 6-12 months or so. If you're not sure, ask a professional.

How to change wiper blades

What you'll need

If you're game enough to replace your own wiper blades, you'll need:

• your new wiper blades
• scissors or a craft knife, and
• pliers.

If you're unsure about the process, leave the job for your mechanic.

Changing your wiper blades

Once you're ready to go, follow these steps to replace your wiper blades:

• Remove your old wiper blades. After lifting the wiper blade away from your car's windshield, press the small clip beneath the rubber wiper where it connects to the wiper assembly. You should be able to slide the wiper blade off by pulling on it gently. If you're having trouble, try using your pliers to depress the clip.
• Install the new wiper blades. Attach the wiper blade to the wiper assembly. You should hear a clicking sound as it clips into place. The wiper assembly is spring loaded, so carefully lower it back onto the windshield to avoid cracking the glass. Repeat this step with the other wiper blade. If you find that the blades are too long, snip the ends off with your scissors or craft knife leaving approximately 3cm sticking out from the claw at the end of it.
• Make sure they work. Test your new wiper blades so you know they're installed correctly. You can do this using your car's windscreen washer function. Before you do, check the windscreen washer bottle is full. Top it up with water and washer additive. If you don't, and the wiper blades are used, you risk scratching your windscreen.

If you're unsure about the process, leave the job for your mechanic.

Need car insurance?

Keeping your wheels in good nick is an important part of being a safe driver, but without the right car insurance cover you could still be affected by the unexpected.

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