Have You Looked at Your Windshield Wipers Lately?

How Long Do Windshield Wipers Last?

Modern automobiles are equipped with some of the most advanced safety technology ever conceived by human beings. These tools have made huge strides in not only keeping people safe in a collision, but can also help prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Even with all of these innovations being broadly standard equipment, a driver looking through a clear windshield is still the most important safety tool. Rain, snow, ice, and dirt can all easily obstruct the view through the windshield and your vehicle’s wiper blades must be up to the task. So, how long do windshield wipers ask? Let’s take a look at a few things you might need to know.

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How Often Should You Replace Wiper Blades?

It should be pretty easy to imagine that there are hundreds, if not thousands of options for windshield wipers on the market. The industry standard states that most windshield wiper blades should be replaced every six to 12 months. However, that interval could be longer or shorter depending on the conditions in your area. Things like excessive ice, mud or dirt on the glass can cause the blades to wear down faster and lose effectiveness. The symptoms of the wiper blades needing to be replaced are straightforward and difficult to miss. If you notice:

• Squeaking while the wipers are in use
• Excessive streaking on the glass
• Spots where some material hasn’t been removed
• Vibrating or chattering sounds

Are Windshield Wiper Blades Expensive to Replace?

Like anything else in the automotive industry, vehicle owners can spend as much as they want to replace a set of wiper blades. The least expensive and most common type is made from rubber and will likely have the shortest life cycle. Second-tier options often use halogen-hardened blades that will likely be more durable and a little more expensive. Finally, most top-of-the-line options are made from silicone. There are a number of reasons to choose this type, but the trade-off will come with a high price point. The Fifth Avenue Volkswagen Parts Department will have several options available to suit your vehicle, your needs, and your budget.

What Affects the Life of Windshield Wiper Blades?

Nobody should be shy about using their windshield wipers. That’s what they’re there for. With that in mind, people can do a few things to make sure they get the most out of this crucial piece of equipment.

• Ultraviolet light causes everything to break down. Avoid parking your vehicle in direct sunlight, if possible.
• Rubber blades can become brittle over time, wiping them down with a rubber protectant that would normally be used for tires can help keep the rubber soft and pliable.
• Higher quality wiper blades might be more expensive up front, but the investment could pay off on the back end because they don’t need to be replaced as often.

We understand that this is a lot of information to absorb and that you likely still have some outstanding questions. Stop by the Fifth Avenue VW Parts or Service Department today and we’ll help you find exactly what you need.