Different oil types

Here at Auto Fit Bedford, we have mechanics who can replace your oil and filters, brake pads, and discs, or provide a full vehicle health check. Call us on 01234 215 500.

Replacing your wiper blades is a simple yet essential maintenance task that significantly impacts your driving safety and comfort. By ensuring clear visibility, protecting your windshield, and maintaining optimal performance, new wiper blades help you navigate the roads with confidence, regardless of the weather conditions.

Why Is It Important to Replace Your Wiper Blades?

Replacing your wiper blades regularly is crucial for several reasons, ensuring your safety and maintaining the overall condition of your vehicle.

1. Clear Visibility

  • Safety: The primary function of wiper blades is to provide clear visibility during rain, snow, or dust storms. Streaks or smears caused by worn wipers can obstruct your view, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Night Driving: During nighttime, glare from oncoming headlights can make streaky windows even more dangerous. New wiper blades ensure a clear windshield, reducing glare and enhancing visibility.

2. Preventing Damage

  • Windshield Protection: Old, hardened, or damaged wiper blades can scratch or damage your windshield. Replacing them prevents such wear and tear, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.
  • Proper Functioning: Worn-out wiper blades can cause the wiper arms to drag across the glass, potentially leading to motor or linkage issues. Keeping blades in good condition ensures the entire wiper system works correctly.

3. Optimal Performance

  • Effective Cleaning: New wiper blades efficiently clear water, snow, and debris, ensuring your windshield stays clean and your vision remains unobstructed.
  • Noise Reduction: Old blades can squeak or chatter against the glass, causing distractions. Fresh blades operate smoothly and quietly.

4. Weather Preparedness

  • Seasonal Changes: Different weather conditions can wear out wiper blades quickly. Hot summers can make the rubber hard and brittle, while cold winters can cause them to crack. Regular replacement ensures your wipers are always ready for the changing seasons.
  • Emergency Situations: Sudden downpours or unexpected weather changes require reliable wipers. Having new blades installed ensures you’re always prepared.

How Often Should You Replace Your Wiper Blades?

  • Regular Intervals: It’s generally recommended to replace your wiper blades every 6 to 12 months. However, this can vary based on usage and weather conditions.
  • Signs of Wear: Replace your wiper blades if you notice any of the following signs:
    • Streaking or smearing on the windshield
    • Squeaking or chattering sounds
    • Cracks or tears in the rubber
    • Reduced contact with the windshield surface

Why Is It Important to Top Up Window Washer Fluid in Your Car?

Topping up your window washer fluid is a vital part of vehicle maintenance that ensures your windshield remains clean and your visibility stays optimal. Here are several reasons why it’s important:

1. Clear Visibility

  • Safety: Clean windows are crucial for safe driving. Dirt, grime, bird droppings, and other debris can obstruct your view. Window washer fluid helps quickly remove these obstructions, providing a clear line of sight.
  • Night Driving: During nighttime, streetlights and headlights can create glare on a dirty windshield. Washer fluid helps maintain a clear windshield, reducing glare and improving visibility.

2. Removing Debris and Contaminants

  • Bug Splatter and Pollen: Bugs, pollen, and other contaminants can accumulate on your windshield. Washer fluid contains cleaning agents that effectively dissolve and remove these substances.
  • Road Salt and Mud: In winter, road salt can create a hazardous film on your windshield. Mud and dirt can also splash up from the road. Washer fluid helps clear these elements quickly.

3. Preventing Windshield Damage

  • Wiper Blade Efficiency: Running wiper blades on a dry windshield can cause scratches and wear on the glass. Washer fluid lubricates the windshield, allowing wiper blades to move smoothly and prevent damage.
  • Avoiding Abrasion: Dirt and grit can act like sandpaper when caught between the wiper blades and the windshield. Washer fluid helps wash away these particles, reducing the risk of abrasion.

4. Maintaining Washer System Functionality

  • System Longevity: Regular use of washer fluid helps keep the washer pump and nozzles in good working condition. Running the system dry can cause damage to these components.
  • Preventing Freezing: In cold weather, using a washer fluid with antifreeze properties prevents the fluid from freezing in the reservoir and lines, ensuring the system works properly when needed.

5. Convenience

  • Immediate Cleaning: Washer fluid allows you to clean your windshield on-the-go, without needing to stop and manually wipe the glass. This is especially useful during long trips or in adverse weather conditions.

6. Legal Requirements

  • Regulatory Compliance: In some regions, maintaining a clean windshield is not just a matter of safety but also a legal requirement. Failing to keep your windshield clean can result in fines or penalties.

How Often Should You Top Up Your Washer Fluid?

  • Regular Checks: Check the washer fluid level regularly, ideally during routine oil checks or before long trips.
  • Seasonal Considerations: In winter or dusty conditions, you may need to top up the fluid more frequently due to increased usage.

Get your car booked in today with Auto Fit Bedford.

Need us to check and book you in for a service? Provide us your details and we’ll give you a call to discuss the best availability at your convenience. 

Be roadsafe
With Auto Fit Bedford, we can have you booked in for an MOT at your earliest convenience to ensure your car is roadworthy and safe for you and your passengers.
Done in the hour
Did you know an MOT can be completed as little as an hour. We have great Wi-Fi and seating area. We also have a genuine Italian Pizzeria next door.