When Should I Change my Windscreen Wiper Blades?

Windscreen wiper blades don't get the respect they deserve. They remove rain, snow, ice and dirt from the windscreen.  They do it quickly and smoothly, at the push of a button. They endure extremes of temperature, from sub-zero winter weather to scorching summer sunshine. They may have to operate for hours at a time. And yet they're made out of thin, soft, flexible rubber -- not exactly the sort of material that can take this kind of abuse indefinitely.

This makes windscreen wiper blades one of the hardest working -- yet least durable -- parts of your car. Over time, they'll crack, become misshapen or lose their flexibility.

So when your mechanic recommends replacing wiper blades, don't dismiss this as an unnecessary item.  It is a cheap maintenance item that will really make a difference next time you are driving in bad weather.