When you are looking for interesting information about cars, check out our blog! We strive to entertain and educate Truckee drivers about any and all auto repair related topics, and if you have any other questions, we encourage you to ask the auto mechanics at Quality Automotive Servicing.

When To Change Windshield Wipers

When Should I Replace My Wiper Blades?

Well, many Truckee drivers will wait until they fail. The problem with that is that you find out they have failed when you actually need them most – a little too late.

Wiper blades are really a critical safety system for travelers to Truckee and Lake Tahoe and mountain residents. As 90% of driving decisions are based on what we see, if you can’t see well because your wipers can’t clear your windshield, your ability to drive safely is significantly impaired.

The simple answer to when windshield wiper blades should be replaced is when they are not working well. But replacing them before they go bad and prior to a first big storm is wise. For some Truckee and Lake Tahoe car owners, once a year may be enough. For others – those who drive a lot, whose wipers are exposed to a lot of sun, or use their wipers more – replacing the blades a couple of times a year might be in order.

There are several types of wiper blades. The conventional blade is the base model. On the other end of the spectrum are beam blades. These have a solid beam that provides uniform pressure over the entire wiper surface for better contact with the windshield. There are also hybrid blades that are a combination of conventional and beam blades.

Premium wiper blades will last longer and provide a cleaner wipe. Truckee auto owners can always upgrade to a better blade, but should never go with a lower grade blade than what was installed on your vehicle from the factory.

Finally, there are special winter blades. The special design of a winter wiper blade resists snow and ice build-up on the blade. For our mountain driving conditions, we suggest using the winter beam blade in all applications for the Truckee area driver.

Remember, using your wipers on an icy windshield will tear up your wiper blades. Also, running wiper blades across a windshield full of snow can cause a failure in the wiper motor system. Always turn off your windshield wipers when you turn off the vehicle and clear the windshield of snow and ice before turning wipers on.

Your knowledgeable Quality Automotive Servicing service adviser can give you wiper blade options and help you select what’s best for this vital safety system.

Right now Red Check Club Members can “Buy One Wiper Blade and receive one free” Go to qualityautomotiveandsmog.com for details on the Red Check Club.

And give us a call at 530-587-1933 for Your Trusted Local Auto Care.