How Often Should I Change My Windshield Wiper Blades?

We know that many drivers wonder how often to change wiper blades on their vehicles. Unlike oil changes, there is no hard-and-fast rule for this in your owner's manual. Many manufacturers make a suggestion, but ultimately you'll have to determine when you need new blades based on several criteria that we will lay out below. Thankfully, drivers in Jacksonville, NC, do not often encounter the icy weather found further north, which can damage the blades, as can the general dry air and exposure to rock salt. However, our blades still wear out.

How Long Do Windshield Wipers Last?

Generally speaking, wiper blades will last between six months and a year. Several things can influence how long they last, though. Using them more frequently can cause premature wear and tear. Where you store your car matters, too. If your vehicle lives outside, its wipers are more likely to wear out quickly. Knowing this does not, however, tell us how often to change wiper blades.

Rather than asking how long do windshield wipers last, we need to learn what indicates they need to be changed. We'll delve into these indicators in the next section. If you need immediate wiper blade replacement in Jacksonville, NC, you'd do well to make an automotive service appointment with us today or pick up a new pair from our parts department to install them yourself.

When to Change Windshield Wipers

Several signs tell you it's time to change your wipers. If the rubber that wipes water off the windshield has become cracked, stiff, loose, or worn down, switch out your windshield wiper blades. Another way to tell when to change windshield wipers is if you find corrosion on the metal. This may not affect their immediate performance, but it's a sign that they need to be replaced.

If your wipers make a screechy sound when they are used, then it's time to switch them out. Unfortunately, this can signify that your wiper arms are bent. You can visit our service center to have our trained techs figure out if that's the issue you're encountering.

Most drivers in Jacksonville, NC, have dealt with streaks on their windshields at some point. This can be the result of several things. First, you'll want to ensure that your windshield wiper fluid is topped off. Next, wipe the screen down by hand. Doing so can remove particles that tend to just get pushed around the windshield by wipers. After this, test the wipers out. If the screen is still streaky, then it's probably time for new wipers.

How Often Should I Change My Windshield Wiper Blades?

As we have seen, it is not always a question of how often to change wiper blades but rather figuring out when they need to be changed. Damage to the wipers or poor performance can indicate that they need to be switched out. Otherwise, you risk poor visibility on the road or permanent damage to your windshield if the metal components start scratching the glass. One great rule of thumb is to request that the technicians check your wipers out whenever you get an oil change.

If it's time to change your blades, let our auto parts store help you out. We will try to ensure that you get the right blades the first time, and we can even help you install them if you'd like. We are your one-stop shop for all your automotive needs in Jacksonville, NC. Visit us today or contact us to ask any follow-up questions on how often to change wiper blades, what size of blades you need, or how to properly install them.