Introduction to Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers were invented by Mary Anderson in 1903 and have since become a standard feature on all automobiles. They allow you the ability to see out of your windshield during bad weather conditions. Most automobiles have two synchronized wipers that are attached to radial style arms.
These arms move in a way that brings your wiper across your windshield and clears it from rain, snow or debris. It is important that you understand the components of you wipers and how to care for them.
FAQs
Q. What size wiper blade should I buy?
A. Windshield wiper blades come in an array of sizes, with the most standard wipers being between sixteen and twenty-six inches. If you take a look through your automobile’s manual, you should be able to find the size you require listed. If you have lost your manual, any automobile repair center will be able to help you decide on the right size blade.
Q. When should I replace my wiper blade?
A. Wiper blades are usually made of rubber and over time the rubber will begin to go bad. You should take time to check your wiper blades regularly to see if they have any damage to them. You will be able to see if the rubber is cracked and chipping. If the blade has damage then you should buy replacement wiper blades in order to keep your wipers working properly.
Q. What is the best way to clean my wiper blades?
A. To keep your windshield wiper blades working in peak condition, you should clean them regularly. The purpose of cleaning your blade is to get all of the dirt and grime off of the blades so that they will provide better visibility. To clean the wiper, you should take a damp, clean cloth and wipe it gently across the blade of the wiper. This should get rid of the dirt on the wiper.
Q. What if dirt still remains on the blade after I wiped it?
Most of the dirt will come off of your wiper blade after going over it with a damp cloth several times. However, if after several attempts water alone will not remove all of the dirt and debris from the blade; you may need to add an alcohol solution to your cloth. This alcohol solution should work to remove the remaining dirt off of the wiper blade.
Q. My wipers will not turn on?
A. If your wipers will not turn on, do not panic. If you are driving, immediately find a safe place to pull over. Turn your wipers to an off position and check around the arm of the wipers to see if anything is lodged into them. Debris can sometimes get into your wipers and cause them to get stuck. If you see anything, gently remove it and try your wipers again. If this does not fix the problem, you may have a problem with the motor of your wipers and you should see your mechanic. |
