Wiper blades are one of those things that are easy to forget about, until you're stuck in a Spring downpour and realize they're not doing their job anymore. Like every other part of your vehicle, wiper blades wear down over time and eventually need to be replaced. The good news is that knowing when to swap them out is pretty straightforward once you know what to look for. Here's a quick guide from the team at Downtown Hyundai to help you stay ahead of it.

You can also learn more about the available Hyundai models we have at Downtown Hyundai, including the Venue, Tucson, and Kona.

How Often Should You Replace Your Wiper Blades?

A good general rule is to replace your wiper blades every six months, roughly in line with the seasons. In Ontario, that usually means swapping to winter blades in the fall before the snow arrives, and switching back to summer blades in the spring once the ice is gone. That said, if your blades are showing signs of wear before the six-month mark, don't wait. Replace them as soon as you notice a problem.

A quick habit that makes a big difference: give your wiper blades a quick look every time you fill up your gas tank. It only takes a few seconds and can save you from being caught off guard in bad weather.

4 Signs It's Time for New Wiper Blades

1. They're Leaving Streaks on Your Windshield

If your wipers are smearing water across the glass instead of clearing it, that's a pretty clear sign the rubber is no longer making full contact with the windshield. This usually happens when the rubber element is worn, torn, or bent out of shape. It can also happen if the blades have been exposed to a lot of sun. UV rays dry out the rubber over time, making it stiff and unable to glide smoothly across the glass. Either way, streaky blades mean reduced visibility, and that's worth fixing right away.

2. You're Hearing Squeaking Noises

Your wipers should move quietly across the windshield. If you're hearing a high-pitched squeak every time they run, a few things could be going on:

• Debris or grime buildup on the blade or windshield. Try cleaning with window cleaner first
• Low washer fluid causing the wipers to drag on a dry windshield
• Worn or damaged rubber that's allowing the wiper frame to scrape against the glass, which can actually cause windshield damage over time

If cleaning doesn't fix the squeak, it's time for new blades.

3. The Blades Are Chattering

“Chattering” is that stuttering, skipping motion you sometimes notice when the wipers move back and forth unevenly. It's most common in extreme temperatures. Summer heat can cause the rubber to set in one position (called permanent set), while cold winters can stiffen the rubber and limit its range of motion. If your blades are chattering regularly, upgrading to a premium beam-style wiper blade can help, as they use a more durable rubber compound that holds up better in all weather conditions.

4. You Can See Visible Damage

Sometimes it's obvious, with tearing, cracking, corrosion on the frame, or rubber that's clearly falling apart. If you can see the damage with your own eyes, the blades are well past their prime and need to go.

Keep Your Hyundai in Great Shape at Downtown Hyundai in Toronto, ON

Staying on top of small maintenance items like wiper blades is one of the best ways to keep your Hyundai running safely and reliably year-round. If you're not sure whether your blades need replacing, the team at Downtown Hyundai is always happy to take a look. Book a service appointment today, or contact us with any questions. We're here to help.