Being a car owner is more than just hopping in and driving. You also have to make sure all necessary vehicle maintenance is done regularly.
While your mind may instantly go to oil changes, tyres, or routine engine checks as part of regular car maintenance, there’s one seemingly minor yet just as important part that also needs attention.
Your windscreen wipers!
If not checked, cleaned and replaced regularly then poor-quality or damaged wiper blades can cause everything from frustration to obscured vision while driving and even windscreen damage. Our preferred supplier is Bosch, who recommends that you replace your wipers every 12 months, depending on your usage and condition of the wipers.
Click here for some tips to help make your wipers last longer.
Changing wipers is something for anyone who is up for a bit of DIY car maintenance. So, if that’s on your to-do list, here are some handy tips.
3 things to consider when changing windscreen wipers
Just like with car tyres and other essential parts of your vehicle, wiper blades wear out over time and can stop working as they should. Here are three important things you should take note of:
1. Ensure you have the right wiper blade size
Wiper blades are not ‘one size, fits all’.
Depending on the model or type of car that you own, it’s important that you have the correct wiper blade measurement to get the exact replacement length.
Helpful tip: Don’t assume the windscreen wiper blades are the same length on the driver’s side and the passenger’s side. One is often longer than the other.
2. Be careful when removing old wiper blades
The wiper arms are spring loaded and can retract very easily. So, when replacing the blades, even though the wipers will stay in a raised position, if the wiper arm snaps back down it could damage your windscreen.
Helpful Tip: When replacing your Bosch wiper blades, scan the QR code on the back of the packaging, to be taken to a video on how to replace your wiper blades.
3. Make sure to check if newly installed wiper blades are functioning properly
Once you have successfully replaced the old wiper blades with new ones, check that both are working well. The best way to test this is to use the windscreen washer system and watch how they perform when clearing the fluid.
If anything seems abnormal, stop the wiper function immediately and recheck to ensure the wiper blade has been clipped in properly.
Helpful tip: Have a family member or friend help you so that someone can control the functions inside the car whilst the other inspects the wipers from the outside.
Should you replace your own windscreen wipers?
Replacing your windscreen wipers can be an easy fix. But often, it’s easier and more convenient to engage a professional, who can change wipers on all types of cars.
Need help with your windscreen wiper blade replacement?
Here at O'Brien® we recommend the Bosch Wiper Blade range for our customers. Not only do our specialist technicians provide a complimentary wiper blade check on all vehicles serviced, but we also provide free installation of any wipers purchased.
We recommend that when you replace your windscreen that you also upgrade your old wipers for brand new ones. It’s a great addition to your shiny new windscreen.
For more information about our Bosch wiper blade range at O'Brien® AutoGlass click here.
Get in contact with us today on 1800 719 738 or book online.
