Driving without properly working windshield wipers is a hazard. You never know when dangerous conditions, such as rain or snowfall, will arise to impair your visibility and risk your safety. As the auto service team at High Point Tire & Automotive in North Carolina explains, it’s crucial that you be on the look out for a few warning signs that it’s time for a replacement.

Here, they share how to tell your windshield wipers aren’t up to par:

1. Residue

Wipers that are past their prime won’t clear a windshield when it’s raining, but rather smear the water across the glass. This can create a blurry mess that will obstruct your vision and make driving incredibly difficult and unsafe.

2. Skidding or Scraping Sounds

When your windshield wipers emit high-pitched sounds while in use, it means they’re not moving smoothly across your windshield. Instead, they are popping up and down and barely coming into contact with the glass. 

3. Age

Most windshield wipers will lose their effectiveness after around six months of use. If you’ve had your current wipers longer than this period, they’re probably struggling to keep your windshield clear.

4. Detached Rubber

When you wait too long to change your windshield wipers, it is common for the rubber on the inside of the arm to break and separate. If this happens, your wipers become much less effective at cleaning your windshield. Also, since the buffer on the metal arm is no longer present, the wipers could slam against and crack the glass instead of gliding across it. If this happens, visit a mechanic for auto service immediately.

5. Bent Frame

From clearing ice in the winter to cleaning off the blades, there are many ways you can damage the frame of your windshield wipers. If it is bent, you might notice that they skip over several areas of your glass.

Don’t let faulty wipers hinder your safety on the road. Whether you need new windshield wipers, an oil change, or a full car tuneup, High Point Tire & Maintenance can help. They provide all tire and auto services under one roof. For more information about their services, call (336) 882-6215. You can also view their current list of deals and promotions by visiting their website.