Autos: how often to replace windshield wipers?

Self-tutoring about car maintenance: the tutor researches a question.

As a kid, I can’t recall witnessing anyone change their wipers. I didn’t drive, so of course didn’t look for an advantage from it.

Now, as a driver in this rainy climate, windshield visibility, to me, is crucial. How can I augment it?

Of course I use rain-x (see my post here). A while back, however, I started to notice streaking across the windshield.

I’d recently treated it with rain-x, so decided the problem lay with the wipers. I noticed some Michelin ones on sale at Costco, so picked up two sets – one for the van and one for my older son’s jeep. My post about installing them is here.

Yet, I recall replacing the wipers last winter. I wondered if it’s common for wipers to need changing so often?

Apparently, yes. Depending on the situation, changing wipers every six months might be expected. Kaltire recommends checking them for possible replacement when you change your tires from winter to summer or vice-versa: approximately at six-month intervals.

Interesting, eh?

BTW: This morning is the first time I’ve driven the van with these new wipers, and I’m impressed:)

Source:

kaltire.com