What wiper blades do I need?
Wiper blades are a small but important component on any vehicle, helping to improve visibility and keeping you safer on the roads. Being unable to see properly out of your windscreen, whether due to rain, dirt or debris, can put you in the line of danger. Having the right, high-quality wiper blades on your car is so important. But how do you know which wiper blade you need?
Do I need new wiper blades?
Look out for clues that your vehicle is in need of some new blades. Tell-tale signs include leaving streaks on the windows, smearing, failure to properly make contact with the glass, rough edges on the rubber blades and a juddering motion as they move over the windscreen. If any of these signs appear, and a wipe with a damp cloth does not remedy the problem, then it is likely to be time for new wiper blades.
You should check the condition of your front and rear wipers regularly and experts recommend that they should be replaced every six to 12 months. Harsh winter weather and scorching summer sun can both impact on the rubber, causing it to crack, stiffen or distort.
Choosing new wiper blades
To choose new blades, you need to know the size and type you require depending on the make and model of your car. This information can be found either in your vehicle handbook or by searching online. There are many wiper blade search functions available online. Wiper blades are usually measured in inches and come in sizes ranging from 10ins to 32ins. New blades will have a numerical code written on the box to help you find the right one for your car. If you are still unsure what type of wiper blades you need, then it is time to call in the experts, such as your local Protyre garage, where our qualified fitters will be able to help.
There are two main varieties of wiper blade to choose from. The standard wiper blade is the one that usually comes with your vehicle. They consist of a small rubber piece attached to a metal holder. Flat wiper blades, on the other hand, sit lower on the windscreen and apply pressure to the windscreen in a different way. They are known to be more aerodynamic than standard wipers. It is also possible to find silicone varieties, rather than traditional rubber ones.
Changing wiper blades
Start by identifying which blade is for which side. Lift your windscreen wiper arm away from the glass. Unclip the older wiper blade either by sliding it or unhooking it. Slide the new blade into place or snap it until it clips into place. Once this is done, you can lay the wiper back down before tackling the other one.
If you need help to find or fit wiper blades, please contact your local Protyre garage. Our qualified experts can also carry out vehicle maintenance and servicing, as well as supplying high-quality tyres from brands including Pirelli, Falken, Sumitomo and Bridgestone.
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