As the temperatures rise during the summer months, it’s not just your body that feels the heat. Your car and its different parts can also feel the effects of the hot weather, especially your windshield and the wiper blades.
Summer heat can cause the blades to dry out and crack, which can compromise their ability to clear your windshield effectively. This can be dangerous and put you at risk, especially if you’re caught driving during a sudden rainstorm. It’s thus important that you pay attention to your windshield wiper blade during the summer months and ensure that this is working properly.
Summer and Your Windshield
When the temperature rises, the glass in the windshield expands. If there are already small chips or cracks in the windshield, the expansion can cause them to grow and spread.
Extreme heat can also cause the windshield to warp, which can affect its structural integrity. This can potentially compromise its ability to protect passengers in the event of an accident.
Summer and Your Wiper
Summer heat can also impact negatively on your windshield wiper blade. If it gets too hot, the rubber material on the blade can become brittle and crack, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing streaks or smearing on the windshield. This can be especially true in areas with high temperatures.
However, other factors, such as the age of the blades, frequency of use, and exposure to the elements, can also affect your wiper’s durability and effectiveness. Given this, ensure that you regularly inspect your wiper blades during summer so any unwanted damage can be detected early.
When Not to Use Windshield Wipers
Below are several situations where the use of your wipers is not recommended.
1. When the windshield is clean and dry.
Running your car windshield wiper blades unnecessarily can wear them down faster and decrease their life span. If your windshield is already clean and dry, there’s no need to use the wipers.
2. When you’re driving at high speed.
Using your windshield wipers when you’re driving at high speed can reduce your visibility as the moving blades can cause streaks and smears. Instead, you can adjust your car’s ventilation system to clear the moisture from your windshield.
3. When your windshield wipers are damaged.
Using a broken windshield wiper blade can lead to further damage and even impair your visibility. In this case, the obvious solution is to get the wiper repaired or replaced before using them.
Summer Windshield Wiper Protection Tips
Exposure to direct sunlight and the summer heat can damage your car wiper blades. Here are some ways to protect them during the hot months.
1. Park the car in a shaded area.
This is one of the simplest and easiest ways to protect your windshield wipers from the sun. The home garage or even under a tree are the ideal parking places.
In this regard, it’s best to keep the windshield wipers up when parked in summer to prevent the rubber blades from sticking to the windshield. When the weather is hot, the rubber material of the blades can soften, causing them to stick to the windshield. Lifting the wiper arms can become difficult, and forcing them can damage the blades.
2. Use a windshield sunshade.
This is another effective way to protect your car windshield wiper blades from the heat of the sun. A windshield sunshade is designed to block the sun’s rays from entering your car’s interior,. This can also help to keep your wipers cool and prevent them from becoming damaged.
3. Keep your windshield clean.
Dirt and debris on your windshield can cause damage to your wipers, especially when these are exposed to sunlight. Keeping your windshield clean and free of debris will help your wipers to remain fully functional.
4. Replace the wipers.
Sometimes, even with proper care, windshield wipers will end up worn-out and may have to be fixed or replaced. Regularly inspect your wipers for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or tears, and either replace them or get a windshield wiper blade repair service.
Key Takeaway
To prevent problems with your windshield wipers during the summer season, it’s essential that you perform regular maintenance and replace these when it becomes necessary. This can include cleaning the wipers regularly with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Additionally, you should inspect your wiper blades for signs of wear and tear such as cracks or discoloration.
If you don’t have the time to do this, you can bring your car to a professional auto body shop where you can have a full-service vehicle cleaning job. Either way, the important thing is that you take the needed steps to ensure that your wiper blades are ready to keep your windshield clear and your driving safe during summer.
Wipe away all debris from your vehicle through Saul’s Autotek’s complete auto inspection.
If you’re not seeing clearly while driving, but your eyes are perfectly fine, the problem could lie with your car windshield. Saul’s Autotek can look into it and provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
Our Broomfield full vehicle inspection service covers your car engine, brakes, transmission, headlights, taillights, and even your windshield wipers. We guarantee thorough cleaning and inspection that will have you smiling from ear to ear. Call us now.
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