08/10/2016
Having a clear view of the road is paramount for safe driving, and at the forefront of this visibility are your car's windscreen wiper blades. You never know when you might get caught out in a downpour, and making sure your car's windscreen wiper blades are in good, working condition can help you be as safe as possible on the road when the inevitable happens. It is recommended to change your windshield wiper blades every 12 months to ensure the maximum visibility, or more often still for higher mileage drivers. Neglecting this simple maintenance can lead to dangerous driving conditions, reduced reaction times, and potential MOT failures.
What Windscreen Wipers Do I Need?
One of the most common questions car owners have is about selecting the correct wiper blades. Windscreen wiper blades come in various shapes and sizes, so it's important to find the right ones to fit your car. Using the wrong size can lead to ineffective cleaning, leaving streaks or missed spots, compromising your view. Finding the right size car wiper blades ensures the blade will cover the entire windscreen, without leaving any gaps they're unable to reach. You can find the correct size windscreen wipers for your car by a few simple methods:
- Measure your original wipers: Carefully remove your old wiper blades and measure the length of the rubber blade.
- Check your car handbook: Your car's owner's manual, often referred to as the car handbook, should provide the exact measurements for both the driver's and passenger's side wiper blades.
- Consult a professional: Local garages or automotive parts specialists can help you identify the correct size for your specific vehicle make and model.
Many online automotive retailers also have 'vehicle lookup' tools where you can enter your car's registration number to find compatible parts, including the correct wiper blade sizes.
Fitting Windscreen Wiper Blades
While replacing wiper blades might seem straightforward, incorrect fitting can lead to damage or poor performance. At ATS Euromaster, we provide free fitting for replacement windscreen wiper blades when booked online. This service ensures that your new blades are fitted correctly and efficiently. We use original-equipment quality wiper blades or higher, meaning the parts you get are at least as good as the ones used by the original manufacturer. This commitment to quality means you can be confident in the performance and longevity of your new wiper blades. We’ll also make sure we select exactly the right kind of wiper blades for your vehicle so you can be sure you’re getting the best wipers for your windshield as possible. *In a very small quantity of cases, your vehicle may require original equipment or speciality wiper blades. In this scenario, an additional charge may be required or alternatively, we would be happy to offer you a refund if preferred. For those who prefer a DIY approach, many automotive stores offer advice on fitting, and you can often find helpful video tutorials online. However, if you're in any doubt, taking advantage of professional fitting services is highly recommended.
Signs Wiper Blades Need Replacing
Your wiper blades are subject to constant wear and tear from exposure to the elements, UV rays, and abrasive dirt. There are usually clear indicators to look out for when your wiper blades are becoming less effective that might mean it’s time for you to consider a replacement. These include:
| Indicator | Description | Impact on Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| Skipping/Hopping/Juddering | The blades do not move smoothly across the windscreen, instead they bounce or skip. | Causes erratic clearing, leading to blurred vision. |
| Wipers Not Clearing Entire Screen | Sections of the windscreen remain wet or streaky after the wipers have passed. | Creates blind spots, particularly dangerous in heavy rain. |
| Water Streaks | Visible lines or trails of water are left behind on the glass. | Distorts vision and can be very distracting. |
| Wipers Missing the Windscreen | The wiper arm itself, or part of the blade, fails to make contact with the glass. | Significant areas of the screen are left uncleared. |
| Squeaking/Squealing Noises | The rubber blade makes loud, unpleasant noises as it moves across the glass. | While not directly impacting visibility, it indicates worn rubber and potential future performance issues. |
If you notice any of these signs, it's a strong indication that your wiper blades are no longer performing optimally and should be replaced soon. You can get free fitting for replacement windscreen wipers at your local ATS centre or read our blog about how to replace wiper blades.
Are Working Windscreen Wiper Blades a Legal Requirement?
Absolutely. Your windscreen wipers are not just a convenience; they are a crucial safety feature and a legal requirement. Your car's windscreen wipers are assessed during their annual MOT test to check their effectiveness at clearing the screen. If they cannot clear water from the windscreen effectively enough, they are deemed an MOT failure. This means that driving with worn-out or ineffective wiper blades could result in your vehicle failing its mandatory roadworthiness test. Furthermore, law enforcement officers can issue fines for driving with poor visibility due to faulty wipers, as it poses a danger to yourself and other road users. Your car's washer fluid levels are also tested during an MOT, so it is advised to check that your car’s washer fluid levels are topped up before taking your car in for its MOT test. Ensuring your wipers are in good condition is essential for both legal compliance and road safety.
Where Can I Get Replacement Windscreen Wiper Blades?
Replacement windscreen wiper blades are widely available from a variety of sources:
- Automotive Parts Retailers: Shops like Halfords, Euro Car Parts, and many independent motor factors stock a wide range of wiper blades for most vehicle makes and models.
- Online Retailers: Websites such as Amazon, eBay, and specialised automotive parts websites offer a vast selection. These often provide detailed compatibility checkers.
- Main Dealerships: While often more expensive, dealerships can supply genuine manufacturer-approved wiper blades.
- Garages and Service Centres: Many garages, including national chains like ATS Euromaster, offer replacement wiper blades as part of their servicing or as a standalone purchase, often with fitting included.
When purchasing, always ensure you have your vehicle's registration number or make, model, and year to hand to guarantee you select the correct size and type of wiper blade. Consider the different types available, such as conventional, flat (aero), and hybrid blades, each offering different benefits in terms of performance and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How often should I replace my wiper blades?A1: It's generally recommended to replace them every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you notice any signs of wear and tear. Q2: Can I just replace the rubber part of the wiper blade?A2: While refill rubbers are available for some blade types, replacing the entire blade assembly is often more cost-effective and ensures optimal performance. Q3: What's the difference between flat and conventional wiper blades?A3: Conventional blades have a traditional metal or plastic frame, while flat blades have a more streamlined, flexible design that conforms better to the windscreen, often providing a more consistent pressure and quieter operation. Q4: My wipers are streaking, what should I do?A4: Streaking is a clear sign your blades are worn. Clean the windscreen thoroughly and check if the wiper arm has the correct tension. If the problem persists, it's time for new blades. Q5: Do I need special wiper blades for winter?A5: Some manufacturers offer 'winter' blades with a rubber cover to prevent ice build-up, which can be beneficial in very cold climates, but high-quality all-season blades usually suffice for most UK conditions.
If you want to read more articles similar to Your Guide to Windscreen Wiper Blades, you can visit the Automotive category.