How Do I Know When My Wipers Need to be Replaced?

How One Little Part
Can Change Everything!
.
While the windshield
wipers may not be the first automotive part that you think of when it comes to car
safety, these little pieces of rubber and plastic can mean safer travel for you
and your loved ones. According to the Federal Highway Administration, impaired
visibility is a leading factor in 46 percent of all fatal car accidents and in
the U.S., there are 3400 weather-related car accidents every day.
.
When
to Replace?
This is a very common
question that the Service Center here at South
Bay Lincoln, and while
we would like to tell you that there is one simple equation to equal the
perfect answer in car care, there isn’t. In fact, how often you should change
windshield wiper blades will depend on how much they are used and in what type
of weather or climate they are often being used in.
·
Age. While most mechanics recommend replacing your windshield
wipers every six months, this isn’t always needed. Instead, look for signs of
serious wear like cracks or breaks in the rubber, bent frames/blades, squeaking
noises while in operation, ability to see clearly on a rainy or foggy day.
·
Wiping Away Dust or Sand. Anyone who lives in California knows that
dust and sand are part of our reality. If you enjoy a day at the beach in
something like the Lincoln MKX, the dust and grit caused by those
sandy beaches accumulates on the windshield making your wipers wear out
surprisingly fast. As a result, it is best to change the wiper blades at least
once per year, but you should check them every couple of months to make sure that
they are still in good working condition. It is also important to keep
temperatures in mind. Wiper blade rubber that is damaged by sun, or by
overexposure to heat, becomes hardened as well. They streak, and skip across
the windshield instead of gliding smoothly, causing your view to become
obstructed, and creating a dangerous driving situation.
·
Rain or Thunder. At this point no one wants to stand out
in the rain trying to put on new wiper blades. As anyone else who lives in
California knows, this type of weather pattern can be often and unpredictable.
The more these type of on-again or off-again showers occur, the more frequently
the use of your vehicle’s wipers, which means more wear and tear. So, if you
have noticed a lot of downpours in the last six months, it is time to consider
replacing.
·
Whether Snow, Sleet or Ice. Although this type of weather isn’t
common in this area, there are those who enjoy taking their family to enjoy a
little weather at places like Mammoth Mountain. So, if you are planning to load
up the new Lincoln MKC for the annual family ski trip, don’t hit the
road without assuring that your car vision is taken care of with new windshield
wipers.
.
Maintain
Your Wiper Blades
Along with replacing
your wiper blades at the proper intervals, it is also important to keep one of
the most important safety features on your vehicle maintained and clean. When
dirt becomes trapped, it could scrape across your windshield causing scratches
and damage. Maintain your wipers by cleaning them whenever they are dirty to
ensure that dirt isn’t trapped underneath them.
.
Keep your Lincoln model’s windshield in good shape. Making sure
your windshield wipers are in good condition by replacing them regularly.
Uncomfortable with replacing your car wipers yourself? No problem, schedule a service
appointment at South
Bay Lincoln today!
