Windshield Wiper Service at Griffith Ford Uvalde
Windshield wipers may seem like a trivial part of your vehicle’s safety system but keeping your windshield clean and clear is critical when you are trying to keep your eye on the road around
Uvalde,
Crystal City, or
Del Rio. Worn or damaged wiper blades can limit your visibility, hindering your ability to see possible dangers ahead of you.
When to Change Your Wiper Blades
Most manufacturers recommend changing blades every 6 to 12 months. Some suggest that your blades can last longer, but various factors can shorten the lifespan of your blades. Most mechanics will check your blades when they do your oil change and may suggest a replacement if appropriate.
Symptoms of Windshield Wipers That Need Replacing
As with any part of your vehicle, there are a few hints or warning signs that let you know when it is about time to change your windshield wiper blades.
- Wipers make a squeaking noise: That horrible squeaking noise your wipers make when they move across the glass is your first warning that they may be going bad.
- Chattering or vibration: Dried and worn wiper blades may cause thee sounds.
- Streaks: If your wipers leave streaks, it may be time to replace them.
- Puddles: Patches of standing water are left behind when the wipers pass over the glass.
Factors That Affect the Life of Your Wiper Blades
The chemical compounds used to make wiper blades wear out, dry out and become brittle over time, losing the flexibility they need to make proper contact with the windshield’s glass surface. Other factors can shorten the life expectancy of your wiper blades.
- Overuse: If you constantly need to use your wipers due to above-average amounts of rain or snow, chances are your wiper blades won’t last as long.
- The weather: Regions with extreme weather patterns from excessive rainfall to bitterly cold winters or blistering heat can cause the compounds in the blades to break down prematurely.
- Direct sunlight: The UV rays from sunlight can break down the compounds in your wiper blades.
Extending the Life of Your Blades
A little care and maintenance can help keep your wiper blades healthy and flexible, so they are ready to do the job they were meant to do. Here are a few simple steps that can prolong the life of your windshield wipers.
- Keep your windshield clean: Even a quick cleaning when you fill up your gas tank can help extend the life of your wiper blades
- Blade cleaning: Rubbing alcohol is great for cleaning your wiper blades, just put a small amount on a clean towel and rub down the blades.
- Keep them lubricated: Clean water is a simple way to keep your blades lubricated. Dampening them with the soaked sponge or towel can keep the compounds from drying out.
Service with Griffith Ford Uvalde
Let the service pros at
Griffith Ford Uvalde handle your windshield wiper needs. Our mechanics will inspect your wipers and blades and install new ones for your vehicle when needed.
Schedule service with our
service department today.
