Do you need new windshield wiper blades? Look for these signs.

Good Windshield Wiper function is vital to maintaining your driving safety. Worn windshield wipers can seriously compromise driver vision whenever road conditions become wet or icy which is exactly when you need to see your best. With the winter driving season just around the corner, now is the time to make sure your windshield wiper blades are in top condition.
A good rule of thumb is to replace your windshield wiper blades every six months, especially in climates where there are temperature extremes. In between wiper blade changes, it is also good maintenance to clean the rubber part of the windshield wipers at least once a month to keep the blades in good condition. While you are cleaning the blades, it is a good idea to inspect your windshield wipers and look for trouble in any of the three main components: the arm, the blade, or the wiping element.

Poor visibility may cause accidents! Is the rubber element warped, hardened, split or contaminated with foreign substances? Are there bends or twists in the wiper element's backing strip, frame, or wiper arm? A bent arm, no spring tension in the arm, or other damage to the wiper assembly also requires replacement. Such damage isn't rare. Windshield wiper superstructure can be damaged by automatic vehicle washes, by scraping ice off the windshield during the wintertime, or by vandalism.

New wiper blades give better visibility! If you are experiencing any of the windshield wiper blade conditions described in the chart below, it is time to change those wiper blades.