The Dangers of Worn-Out Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are one of the many features of your vehicle designed to keep you safe. Wipers clear debris and blinding rain off the glass, giving you a clear view of the road ahead. However, if wipers aren’t properly maintained, it can lead to serious dangers.



In this blog, we’ll cover the potential dangers drivers face with neglected wipers and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Understanding Windshield Wipers

The primary function of windshield wipers is to clear obstructions and provide the driver with clear visibility, which is crucial for safe driving, especially in adverse weather conditions. There’s no denying that they play a vital role in maintaining safety.

The components of the wipers are as follows:

• Wiper Motor: An electric motor powers the wipers, converting energy to move the arms back and forth.
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• Wiper Linkage: This system of levers and pivot points turns the motor's rotational motion into sweeping arcs.
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• Wiper Arms: The arms are the metal or plastic rods that hold the wiper blades in place. The motor moves the arms, which move the next component.
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• Wiper Frame: This part connects the arm and the blade.
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• Wiper Blades: These rubber or silicone parts sweep across the windshield to clear away rain, ice, snow, and debris.
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• Wiper Switch: This switch allows the driver to control the wipers.
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• Windshield Washer System: This system sprays washer fluid onto the windshield, helping to loosen dirt and debris when used with the wipers.
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• Wiper Nozzles: These spray wiper solution onto the windshield.
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• Wiper Water Tank: This is the tank that stores the windshield washer fluid.
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• Wiper Washer Pump: The pump pulls fluid from the reservoir and pushes it through the nozzles to spray onto the windshield.
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What Are the Dangers of Neglecting Wiper Maintenance?

There are several potential dangers associated with using worn-out wipers:

• Reduced Visibility: If you don’t have a clear view of the road, you’re putting yourself and your passengers at risk.
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• Increased Risk of Collision During a Storm: Good wipers leave your windshield clean when rain, snow, sleet, or hail come pouring down. Worn wipers can cause streaking, raising the chances of an accident.
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• Impaired Reactions: Poor visibility makes it harder to react quickly to obstacles like other cars, trees, or animals that may suddenly appear on the road.
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The Importance of Professional Maintenance

Regularly check your wipers for signs of wear and tear. If you’re unsure, you can have a professional auto glass technician inspect them. The general rule is to replace your wipers every six to twelve months, so if yours are past that time frame, consider getting them replaced.

Auto glass professionals have the expertise to maintain wipers on all types of vehicles. Plus, they have access to high-quality products and can provide professional installation.

Signs Your Wipers Are Old

Here are some signs it may be time to replace your wipers:

• Poor Visibility: If your view isn’t completely clear when it’s raining, it’s time to replace the wipers. Driving with unclear visibility is a safety risk.
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• Streaking or Smearing: If your wipers leave streaks or smudges behind, it’s a sign the blades need replacing.
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• Skipping or Chattering: If the wipers squeak, skip, or make jagged movements across the windshield, there may be an issue with the arms.
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• Damage to the Rubber: If the wiper blade is cracked, ripped, or showing signs of wear, it’s time to replace it.
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Do You Need New Wipers in the Boone, NC, or Mountain City, TN, Areas?

If you're concerned about the condition of your wipers and live in Boone, NC, or Mountain City or Butler, TN, contact us at Appalachian Auto Glass. We’re a licensed, certified, and veteran-owned auto glass company, and our team is available to answer any questions you might have about your auto glass or windshield.