Are winter wiper blades worth it? As Mainers prepare for the winter (which we know doesn’t always follow the calendar), it’s a question that comes up, particularly for inexperienced drivers.
What are the benefits of winter wiper blades and can you get by without making the switch from summer blades to winter blades?
The Importance of All Windshield Wiper Blades
According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, weather plays a role in about 21% of crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
Windshield wipers serve a number of purposes with the obvious being their ability to clear rain, snow, and/or ice from obscuring your view.
A sometimes overlooked function is that they keep your windshield clean, which helps reduce glare from “the sun, traffic lights, and headlights.” Glare is challenging in ideal situations but even worse in inclement weather.
Windshield wipers are therefore important for reducing inclement weather’s potential to cause accidents. Selecting the right wiper is also important.
The Differences Between Summer and Winter Blades
There are important differences between summer and winter blades that make them better suited for specific seasons.
Summer blades are lightweight and are designed with a thin layer of rubber around their blades. These blades are ideal for the warmer months when rain is the only precipitation you have to deal with.
On the other hand, winter blades have a sturdier frame built to help move through the snow and ice. The frame is covered by synthetic rubber (unlike summer frames that can get clogged by snow and ice due to having exposed frames).
Can I Use The Same Blades?
If winter blades work so well, why not leave them on all year round? That may sound good but just as summer blades function poorly in the winter, winter blades underperform in the warmer months.
The Importance of Fresh Blades
Whether you have summer blades or winter blades, you’ll want to make sure they are changed on a regular basis. “Streaks or missed expanses of glass are sure signs that the blades are ready for retirement.”
Blades wear out and worn-out wiper blades are not good for anything, let alone winter driving. Make sure you are prepared for the winter season.
Stop by Berube’s Complete Auto Care in Lewiston, Maine and we’ll be happy to help you install the right wiper blades for your vehicle. We can also help you find other products to help reduce weather-related problems. Get in touch with Berube’s today.