When it comes to vehicle maintenance, many drivers take their windshield wipers for granted, rarely considering their crucial role in ensuring visibility and safety on the road. While it may seem like an afterthought, improper use of your windshield wipers can cause serious damage to your car, potentially leading to costly repairs or even dangerous situations.
The following highlights the critical mistake drivers often make with windshield wipers—and why it can be a fatal mistake for your car.
1. Using Wipers on a Dry Windshield
One of the most common and often overlooked mistakes drivers make is using the windshield wipers when the windshield is dry. It may be tempting to swipe away dust or dirt, but this action can do serious harm to your wipers and the windshield.
Windshield wipers rely on the lubrication of water or windshield washer fluid to function smoothly. When the windshield is dry, the rubber blades of the wipers can scrape directly against the glass. This not only causes friction but also leads to premature wear and tear on the wiper blades, which can eventually cause them to crack or tear.
Additionally, using wipers on a dry windshield increases the likelihood of creating visible scratches or damage on the glass itself. These scratches can impair visibility and lead to expensive repairs down the line. The best practice is to ensure that your wipers only operate when the windshield is wet, allowing the rubber blades to glide smoothly.
2. Using Wipers on Frozen or Icy Windshields
Another fatal mistake that drivers frequently make is using windshield wipers to clear off ice or snow. In freezing temperatures, ice can build up on your windshield, creating a potentially hazardous driving situation. However, using the wipers to remove thick ice or snow can result in severe damage to both the wipers and the windshield.
The rubber blades are not designed to handle such a heavy load, and using them in freezing conditions can cause the wipers to bend or snap. Moreover, if the wipers are stuck to the windshield due to ice buildup, turning them on can burn out the motor that controls the wipers, resulting in costly repairs or complete replacement.
To avoid damaging your wipers, always clear off your windshield with an ice scraper or defroster before using the wipers. This will ensure that the rubber blades are not subject to undue stress and will allow them to work properly without causing harm to the car’s components.
3. Leaving Wipers in “Park” Mode During Freezing Weather
During cold weather, it is not uncommon for drivers to leave their wipers in the “park” position when they are finished driving. This can be an expensive mistake. When temperatures drop, windshield wipers left in this position can freeze to the windshield, causing them to get stuck in place.
In some cases, turning the wipers on when they are frozen to the windshield can damage the wiper motor. This can result in the motor burning out, leaving you without functioning wipers until the motor is replaced. Furthermore, leaving the wipers in the park position can cause the rubber blades to freeze and become deformed, leading to poor performance and the need for new blades.
The best approach during winter weather is to lift your wipers away from the windshield when parking your car. This prevents the blades from freezing to the glass and helps preserve the functionality of both the blades and the motor.
4. Ignoring Worn Wiper Blades
Over time, windshield wiper blades naturally wear out due to exposure to sun, heat, dirt, and constant use. However, many drivers neglect to replace their wiper blades, assuming they still function properly. Worn-out wiper blades can be dangerous, especially during heavy rain or snow, as they fail to clear the windshield effectively.
As wiper blades become worn, they lose their ability to create an even and consistent wipe across the windshield. This can result in streaking, smearing, or even a complete inability to clear the glass, significantly impairing visibility. Worse yet, damaged blades can scratch the windshield, leading to costly repairs.
To prevent this, it’s important to regularly inspect your wiper blades and replace them when necessary. Most experts recommend replacing wiper blades every 6 to 12 months, depending on climate conditions and how often they are used.
5. Using the Wrong Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is designed to work in conjunction with the wipers to clean off debris, dirt, and other contaminants from the windshield. However, using the wrong type of washer fluid can cause problems. Some drivers opt for water in the washer fluid reservoir, but this is a mistake.
Water alone doesn’t clean the windshield as effectively as proper windshield washer fluid, which contains cleaning agents that break down grime and dirt. Additionally, using plain water can cause the fluid system to freeze in cold temperatures, damaging the system and the wipers themselves. In some cases, the water can cause streaks or residue on the windshield, further obstructing visibility.
For the best results, always use the recommended windshield washer fluid designed for your climate, especially during colder months when freezing is a concern.
6. Turning the Wipers On While Driving Through Heavy Snow or Rain
When driving in severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow or rain, it’s important to adjust your wiper settings accordingly. Turning your wipers on to the highest setting when there is already an excessive amount of snow or water on the windshield can damage the wiper blades and motor.
When the wipers are subjected to such heavy loads, the blades may not be able to clear the windshield fast enough, causing the motor to strain. This can lead to overheating, and in extreme cases, can result in the wipers malfunctioning or failing altogether.
In heavy weather, ensure that your wipers are on the appropriate setting, and if conditions are particularly harsh, pull over to clear the windshield manually or use defrosters to reduce the snow or rain buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your car’s windshield wipers are far more critical than most drivers realize. Mistakes like using the wipers on a dry windshield, using them on frozen glass, leaving them in the park position during cold weather, or ignoring worn blades can cause significant damage to both the wipers and your car. Taking a few extra steps to maintain and properly use your wipers can save you money and, more importantly, keep you safe on the road. Always make sure to inspect your wipers regularly, replace worn-out blades, and avoid using them in situations where they are likely to be damaged. Proper care of your windshield wipers will not only prolong their life but also improve your visibility and safety during your daily drives.