Your car’s windscreen wipers serve an important function when driving, they help you to keep visibility in poor and wet conditions and help to keep you safe on the road.
Due to wear-and-tear, weather conditions, cleaning sprays, or build up of dirt, windscreen wiper blades can wear down over time. If you notice that your wipers aren’t clearing your windshield fully then it’s probably time to replace them.
Drivers can also fail the NCT if their wipers are damaged, missing or are not clearing the screen effectively to provide a clear view of the road. The RSA Rules of the Road advise drivers to keep their windscreen wipers and wiper blades in good working condition.
So, what do you do when you need to replace your windscreen wipers? The good news is that you don’t need to be a mechanic to change your blades. Our guide below will take you through the steps for how and when to change your windscreen wipers.
When to Replace Your Windscreen Wiper Blades
Before you go changing your windscreen wiper blades, it’s important to know what to look out for and how to tell if your wipers need to be replaced.
Generally speaking, it’s good practice to replace your windscreen wipers every six to twelve months (or twice a year), depending on their condition and your usage patterns. But you should consider replacing sooner if you notice any:
Streaks
If your wipers are struggling to clear water or leaving streaks on your windshield then it might be time for a new set. Streaks can be also caused by dirt or debris, so check the rubber for damage or any cracks or splits. If you can see damage then it’s time to replace.
Squeaks
Squeaks or unusual sounds from your wipers may be a sign that the rubber has hardened; or that the wipers have been assembled incorrectly.
Skipping
When working properly, wipers should move smoothly across the windscreen. If yours are skipping or juddering as they move, it might be a sign that your wipers need to be replaced.
Getting the Right Wiper Blades For Your Car
Before you start to replace your wipers, make sure you’ve got the correct replacement blades for your car. Wiper blades come in a range of different sizes so make sure you choose based on your vehicle’s specifications. If you’re unsure, you can check your car owner’s manual or measure against your existing wiper blades.
Changing Your Windscreen Wiper Blades
Removing the Old Wiper Blades
- Getting Ready: Before you start, make sure your car is stopped and parked on a driveway or somewhere away from traffic. Make sure your wipers are off and give your windscreen a quick clean to remove any dirt or debris that may have built up.
- Lift the Wiper Arm: One at a time, carefully lift the wiper arms away from the windscreen. When raised, it should hold steady in a raised position and allow you to unclip the clips. Just be careful not to let the wipers snap back as they can damage your windshield.
- Unclip the Blade: Most wiper blades have a small clip or fastening mechanism that holds the blade in place. Remove this clip and then slide the blade out from the arm. Once you have removed the old blades, you can attach the new ones in much the same way.
Attaching the New Blades:
- Prepare the New Blades: Start by removing your new blades from any protective coverings. Do this gently and carefully so you don’t break them or cause any damage.
- Attach the Blades: Next, simply slide the new blade onto the wiper arm until you hear a click letting you know that they are locked securely in place. Once they are secured, you can carefully place them back on to the windscreen of your car. Make sure the blades are secure and do not move around loosely.
Testing Your New Wiper Blades
- Turn on Your Wipers: Once the blades have been replaced, give them a test swipe to make sure they are working correctly and fully clearing your windshield. If they need some adjusting or need to be re-fitted, you’re likely to experience again some of the issues noted above.
Common Mistakes When Changing Wiper Blades
Handling With Excessive Force: Wiper arms and blades can be somewhat delicate. Take care not to bend them or let the arm snap back against the windscreen (which can also damage your windscreen).
Changing your windscreen wiper blades is a fairly straightforward task that you should be able to complete by yourself, without professional help.
At KennCo, our comprehensive car insurance policies have windscreen cover included as standard, with our approved repairer. Click here to get a reliable online quote from us here or simply call one of our trusted agents on 01 409 2600.
FAQs
How To Replace Windscreen Wipers
Written by KennCo Staff
Approved by Marketing Manager Noel Gavin