Windshield Wiper Maintenance Tips: Get Your Car Ready for Winter

As the chill of winter approaches, it’s time to think about the safety of your vehicle in cold weather. One of the most overlooked, yet crucial, components of your car during winter is your windshield wipers.

In snowy, rainy, and icy conditions, these small tools are essential for maintaining visibility and driving safely. Here are some windshield wiper maintenance tips to ensure you’re ready for the winter months ahead.

Inspect Your Wipers For Damage

Start by inspecting your windshield wipers to check for any visible damage. Wiper blades can crack, tear, or lose their flexibility over time, especially after a long summer of heat and sun exposure. 

If your wipers leave streaks or miss spots when activated, it’s time for a replacement. In winter, even the smallest issue with your wipers can drastically affect your visibility, so it’s best to address it before the first snowfall.

Replace Wiper Blades Regularly

Even if your wipers look fine, it’s a good idea to replace them every 6 to 12 months, depending on their condition. Winter months can be hard on your blades, and the cold weather can cause them to wear out faster. 

Consider switching to winter-specific wiper blades. These are designed with a rubber cover that helps prevent snow and ice buildup, making them more effective in harsh winter conditions.

Keep Your Wiper Fluid Reservoir Full

Wiper fluid is a lifesaver when driving in winter weather, especially if road salt, ice, or snow is kicking up onto your windshield. Make sure your wiper fluid reservoir is full, and keep an extra bottle in your car just in case. 

It’s important to use a winter-grade windshield wiper fluid because it’s designed to work in freezing temperatures and won’t freeze in the reservoir.

Clear Snow and Ice from Wipers Before Driving

Before you hit the road in the winter months, always clear the snow and ice off your windshield and wiper blades. If you try to use your wipers to clear away ice, you could damage the blades or even burn out the wiper motor. 

Use an ice scraper or defroster to remove ice, then run the wipers to clear any remaining debris. This ensures that the blades don’t freeze in place and that your wipers work properly.

Use Your Wipers Sparingly in Extreme Cold

When temperatures drop to freezing or below, it’s best not to use your windshield wipers as the first line of defense against ice buildup. Instead, rely on your car’s defrost setting and use the wipers sparingly. 

If your wipers freeze, try gently loosening them before attempting to use them again. Running wipers on frozen blades can damage the rubber or the motor.

Check the Wiper Motor and Mechanism

Your wiper blades might be in perfect shape, but what about the mechanism that controls them? The wiper motor and other components can also wear out or become corroded over time. 

If you notice any issues, such as the blades moving slower than usual or not working at all, have the mechanism checked by a professional before winter weather sets in.

Keep Your Windshield Clean

A clean windshield makes all the difference when using your wipers. In winter, dirt, salt, and debris can build up quickly, making it harder for your wipers to do their job. 

Give your windshield a quick clean every few days to ensure a clear, smooth surface for your wipers to work on. This helps prevent damage to your wipers and provides you with the best visibility possible.

Stay Safe On The Road This Winter With Boggs

By following these windshield wiper maintenance tips, you’ll keep your car in top shape and be ready for whatever winter weather brings.

At Boggs Automotive, we offer comprehensive vehicle maintenance services to ensure that every part of your car, including your wipers, is ready for the season ahead. Schedule an appointment with us today, and we’ll take care of your car’s winter readiness!