4 Tips for Taking Care of Your Windshield Wipers

It's easy to forget about your car's windshield wipers until they stop working. However, completing a few maintenance tasks and protecting your windshield wipers can go a long way in making sure they do their best for six months. Follow these tips for taking care of your windshield wipers.

Watch for Tree Branches

Tree branches can bend and tear at windshield wipers if you're driving near trees with reaching branches. Trees can also drop leaves, twigs, and debris on your wipers, scraping them or wedging into the moving parts. Try not to park your car under any trees, and pick away any twigs or leaves before running your wipers.

Use Wiper Fluid—and Pick the Right One

If you use your windshield wipers when they're dry, the friction can wear down the edges and cause tears. Instead, always keep your car's windshield wiper fluid container full so there's always lubrication. Higher-quality windshield wiper fluid can clean your windshield with minimal streaking or spotting. Some fluids even de-ice your windshield and reduce the risk of ice accumulation.

Lift Wipers Up During Ice and Snow

If you leave your windshield wipers down during snowfall, snow and ice can build up around them, sticking them in place so firmly that you'll break them if you try to pull them free. Instead, manually lift up the wipers so they stick slightly up while your car is parked. There are two additional benefits: it's much easier to brush them free of snow, and you can more easily clean off your windshield glass in the morning after a storm.

Replace Your Windshield Wipers Every Six Months

It’s important to remember that windshield wipers aren't meant to be permanent, and trying to extend their lifespan too far can be dangerous. Replace your windshield wipers every six months so you're ready for heavy rainfall or winter storms. If you want to have a professional mechanic handle your windshield wiper replacement or troubleshoot electrical problems with your windshield wipers, the team at Complete Custom Automotive is here to help. Schedule an appointment that fits your schedule today!