Don't spend too much on wiper blades

Everyone gets caught like a cat within the rain sometimes. If you are in a auto too, then you have to be able to see where you are going still. Wiper blades must be in good condition in order to effectively whisk moisture from the windshield. Your blades shouldn’t make any streaks or smears on the windshield. If your car needs new wiper blades, keep this cash-conscious idea in mind – just because a set of blades is more expensive does not necessarily mean they’re better, says Consumer Reports.

Previous wiper blades

You used to pull a lever inside the automobile to operate your windshield wipers. Cars now use wipers electronically by a simple push of a button. If your wiper blades are good and your automatic system works, then there can be no dirt left on your windshield. An Everblades electric system and heated wiper blades will protect your vehicle from snow and ice also. But for maintaining effective driving visibility, Consumer Reports reminds us via tests on 185 cars that some brands – such as Valeo 600 series, Anco 31 series and Michelin RainForce – aren’t the most costly, however they are highly effective.

Change wiper blades each six to nine months

Wiper blades after a half year or more, except the RainX Latitude brand, were reported by Consumer Reports to be not nearly as effective. More streaking, smearing or even missed areas of the windshield became more common over time. Consumer Reports also found in a 185-car sample that many had been using wipers that had degraded beyond recommended safe use. Most individuals do not notice when their wiper blades get really bad because they’re used to it.

Good wipers are recommended

It is easy to replace wipers with a hook that is on most vehicles. The new blades should simply snap into place. If more work is needed than this to get the blades on, you’ve paid too much.

Check out the owner’s manual

Remember the mantra “Check the owner’s manual.” You can get the info online or check inside your car for it. Here you’ll see all the information of proper maintenance of your vehicle. You can replace them each six to twelve months. If you aren’t certain about size, bring one of the blades to the store with you when you are ready to replace.

Additional reading

Consumer Reports

consumerreports.org/cro/cars/tires-auto-parts/auto-parts/windshield-wipers/overview/windshield-wipers-ov.htm

Everblades

everblades.com/

How Stuff Works

howstuffworks.com/wiper.htm

YouTube

How to change your windshield wiper blades

youtube.com/watch?v=cJN7NqkUd1k