|
|
 | | 
Choosing Wiper Blades
By Mike Bumbeck/autoMedia.com
Clarifying the Choices for a Clearer View -
Replacing windshield wiper blades is a low priority task for the most of us.
One only and suddenly remembers that the wiper blades are worn out when it
rains or snows. This thought is usually and quickly forgotten when the skies
clear up. This on and off act of procrastination continues, often until the
wiper blades are worn well beyond usefulness. The fact is that worn and poorly
operating windshield wiper blades can be dangerous. A split second of impaired
vision holds potential for an accident.
|
| | |  |
|
|
Replacing and even upgrading wiper blades takes minutes and can provide
improved visibility even in the worst of weather conditions. This is a task
best performed on a balmy day with a cold drink in wait, instead of during a
freezing rainstorm at the superhypermart parking lot.
Bewildering Assortment
Making the plunge into the store to purchase new wiper blades is the first
step. The second is being presented with a bewildering array of choices. At
its most basic, the windshield wiper is a thin strip of rubbery material
attached to an assembly that holds the strip against the windshield. The
windshield wiper squeegees water, snow, dirt, bugs, and the like off the
windshield to clear up the forward line of vision. If most of your driving is
done in a temperate climate then the simplest of wiper refills or wiper blades
may be the answer to your windshield wiper needs. If harsh weather or swarms
of insects are more the norm, then upgrading to heavy-duty or higher
performance wiper blades may be a better solution to seeing clearly.
Sun Baked
While a rainstorm or snow squall may serve as a reminder to replace the
windshield wiper blades, extremes in heavy weather are not the main factors in
wiper blade decay. Wiper blades receive their greatest abuse while sitting
idle baking in the hot sun. The same UV rays that make the days of summer long
and lazy can cook the flexibility and usefulness out of the material the wiper
blades are made of. The wiper blade needs to be soft to conform to the shape
of the windshield. The irony is that the end of summer often brings with it
some of the worst in weather. Worn blades that worked fine during the
occasional summer squall or shower will usually display their uselessness when
the first winter storm hits.
Wiper Refills
The first and often least expensive option in upgrading the windshield wipers
is a fresh set of wiper refills. The wiper refill is simply a replacement for
the strip of rubber that meets the windshield. Wiper refills are a good option
if the wiper blade assemblies are still in decent shape. These refills come in
a variety of lengths and widths. Swapping in the new for the old can restore
clear vision in seconds. Measure both or all wiper blade lengths and note the
width before purchasing wiper blade refills. Even though it may not look it,
wiper blades are often different lengths. Check width requirements as well. A
pair of pliers and a bit of patience is all that's required for wiper refill
replacement.
| |
|
