How Often Should You Replace Wiper Blades?

by Rick Popely, Cars.com

If your windshield wiper blades leave streaks and smears, or if they scrape and chatter even when there is plenty of moisture on the glass, you could need new wiper blades. If in bad weather you find yourself ducking and dodging your head like a boxer to see out your windshield, you could need new wiper blades.

Let your eyes and common sense dictate when to change wiper blades. Wiper blades should be able to easily clear water, snow and slush. This is especially true if you live in an area where salt is used on the roads because dried salt can practically make a windshield opaque. If you pull a wiper arm away from the windshield, you might find tears or cracks in the wiper blade — other signs they need replacement.

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