Summer is in full swing and now that you’re tan, looking fab, and getting ready to hit the road to your next adventure, nothing can stop your shine…except maybe a rainstorm. It’s no secret that we can get some pretty crazy rain storms during the summer, and even though they tend to be quick, they can sometimes be intense. If you find yourself stuck on the road during one of them, don’t stress, if anything just pull-over until it clears up. But if you plan to venture through the storm be sure that your wipers are up for the challenge.

Most of know how important wiper blades are, but rarely maintenance them! Why you might ask? Good question, I don’t know! I can only assume it is because when our wiper blades need replacement a little orange light doesn’t show up on our dashboard and because we don’t have to use them every day we tend to pay less attention to them. So this week we are giving you the 411 on everything you need to know about your wipers, including what to look for to see if they need replacement and tips for maintaining the life of them! Don’t wait any longer, get those wipers ready to take on anything and wipe away the stress the next time you’re stuck in a rainstorm!

When inspecting your wipers, look for the following:

• Broken frame – Detachment of frame arm or connection point
• Metal Corrosion
• Visible cracks, tears, or missing pieces
• Check squeegee wiper to see if it is still flexible  
• Check that squeegee is secure in the wiper frame.

Maintenance Tips:

Being able to see out of your window is essential to safe driving. Most drivers use wipers to clear away rain, sleet, and snow, yet most drivers wait too long and end up driving with bad wipers. Remembering to maintenance your wipers every six months or when you notice the action above happening.

Why your blades deteriorate:

• Sun: Ultraviolet light and ozone deterioration
• Oil: Car waxes and exhaust hold rubber-deteriorating oil
• Airborne debris: Sand, mud, and dust carried in the wind
• Moisture: Acid rain and salt water (in moist air both near the shore and inland)

Extend the life of your wipers by doing the following:

• Clean your windshield every time you fill your tank
• Gently wipe the rubber squeegee with a damp paper towel to remove any loose dirt or oil.
• Never use your windshield wipers to de-ice your windshield
• Pull your wiper blades away from your windshield during winter months to prevent ice on your wipers!