Windscreen wipers are one of those things we completely ignore until it suddenly starts pouring and we are squinting just to see the car in front of us.
Keeping your wipers in top condition barely takes any effort, but it makes a massive difference when you are driving through a sudden thunderstorm, a heavy monsoon downpour, or even thick morning mist. Here are three quick habits to keep them working perfectly:
1. Remove dirt and debris regularly
Think about all the road dust, tree sap, and bird droppings that land on your car. If you don’t clean your wipers, you are basically dragging all that rough gunk right across your glass, which causes annoying streaks and tiny scratches.
What to do:
Next time you wash your car or pump petrol, grab a damp cloth with a little wiper fluid. Gently wipe along the edge of the rubber blade until the cloth comes away clean. It is a simple habit that only takes a few seconds!
2. Check for damage and replace if necessary
Our Malaysian sun is absolutely brutal on rubber. Over time, the heat dries out the blades, making them stiff and brittle. If your wipers are leaving large patches of uncleared water on your windscreen, skipping across the glass, or making that terrible squeaking noise, they are definitely worn out.
What to do:
Once a month, just run your finger along the rubber blade. If it feels cracked, torn, or jagged, it is time for a new set. Generally, you should replace them every 6 to 8 months to ensure they sweep smoothly and effectively.
3. Lift the wiper in hot weather to prevent sticking
You have probably seen cars in open-air car parks with their wipers sticking straight up. There is actually a really good reason for it! A scorching hot windscreen can literally melt the thin edge of the rubber, baking it firmly onto the glass. If you turn your wipers on while they are stuck like that, it might tear the rubber right off.
What to do:
If you are leaving your car out under the blazing sun for a few hours, just pop the wipers up. Even better, try to park in the shade or throw up a sunshade to keep the glass temperature down.
How to change your own wipers
If it is time for a fresh set of wipers, you don’t necessarily need to visit a mechanic. Changing them yourself is easy! Here are the basic steps:
- Identify your wiper size: Windscreen wipers come in different lengths (usually measured in inches). Check your car manual or simply use a measuring tape to measure your current left and right blades.
- Check your clip type: There are a few different ways wipers attach to the metal arm. The most common in Malaysia is the “U-hook,” but some cars use pinch-tabs or push-buttons. Look at how your current wiper connects before buying a new one.
- Unclip and replace: Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen. Press the small release tab or button on the old wiper to unhook it, slide it off, and slide the new one on until you hear it click securely into place.
A little bit of basic care goes a long way. Keeping your wipers clean and protected from the heat means they will last longer, stop streaking, and give you a crystal-clear view of the road exactly when you need it.
Maintaining windshield wipers is a vital, yet often overlooked, component of vehicle safety. By proactively cleaning debris, inspecting for signs of wear, and protecting blades from intense heat, you ensure clear visibility and prevent the dangers of wiper failure during poor weather. Investing a few minutes in these simple maintenance habits will extend the lifespan of your wipers and keep you driving safely.
Drive Safer, Stay Protected
By making a few simple habits part of your routine — clearing away dirt and debris, checking for wear, and lifting your wipers in hot weather — you can keep your wipers working perfectly and your view of the road crystal clear.
Keeping your wipers in good condition is a simple way to stay safe on the road, but protecting yourself against unexpected events is equally important. Chubb’s motor insurance offers comprehensive protection covering liabilities, fire, and theft, with reliable support when you need it most.
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The benefit(s) payable under eligible products is(are) protected by PIDM up to limits. Please refer to PIDM’s TIPS Brochure or contact Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad or PIDM (visit www.pidm.gov.my ). Terms and Conditions apply.
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