Don't Let Winter Blindside You: The Importance of Wiper Care
As winter's chill envelops Southeast Michigan, the road ahead may bring treacherous conditions. While we often prepare ourselves with winter coats and snow tires, one often overlooked aspect is the windshield wipers. Properly winterizing your wipers can significantly enhance your visibility, keeping you and your loved ones safe during inclement weather.
A Quick Five-Minute Checkup
Winterizing your wiper blades is a quick task that can make a world of difference. Duane "Doc" Watson, an auto industry veteran, emphasizes that merely taking five minutes to check your wipers can be the deciding factor between a safe ride or a potentially unfortunate incident on the road. Start by inspecting your wiper blades for cracks or tears and test them for streaking. If you see streaks, it's time to replace them—ideally every six to twelve months.
Simple Steps to Keep Wipers From freezing
On frosty mornings, having your wipers freezing to the windshield can lead to damage. Here’s how to prevent that:
- Lift the Blades: Before you leave your car for the night, lift the blades off the glass and retract them fully. This way, they won't be in contact with the icy surface until you're ready to drive again.
- Utilize Covers: Investing a few dollars in wiper blade covers can be a game changer. If you lack covers, old tube socks work just as well!
- Apply Water Repellents: Using a water repellent spray saves you from scraping ice each morning.
- Choose Winter-Appropriate Blades: Opting for winter-specific wiper blades can significantly reduce the likelihood of freezing—these are designed with materials that stay flexible despite the cold.
Top Wiper Blades for the Winter Challenge
When it comes to wiper blades, Watson recommends several reliable products that will withstand Michigan winters:
- Bosch Winter Wiper Blades: These are well known for their durability and performance in harsh conditions.
- Rain-X Latitude Water Repellent Blades: Car and Driver magazine's top choice for their exceptional repelling capabilities.
- Bosch ICON Blades: Their premium pick, known for exceptional function and longevity.
The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Wiper Maintenance
Not maintaining your wipers can lead to big consequences. Using damaged wipers can not only decrease your visibility but also lead to larger potential damages related to windshield scratches or mechanical failures. Proper care, as simple as it may be, is your first line of defense and can save not just your windshield but also your life.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Prepared
This winter, ensure your home on wheels is ready for whatever the road throws at you. Investing time and minimal resources into winterizing your wiper blades could save you from a dangerous situation on icy roads.
Don't wait until it's too late; make your vehicle's safety a priority this winter season.
Add Row
Add



Write A Comment