When winter weather strikes, car owners scramble to prepare their vehicles for snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. But there’s one simple tip that many overlook—raise your wiper blades before a winter storm. This small action can go a long way in protecting your vehicle’s windshield wipers and ensuring safe driving during the coldest months of the year. Here’s why this is a good idea and how it can save you time, effort, and money.
The Importance of Preparing Your Wiper Blades for Winter
Your windshield wiper blades are your first line of defense against snow and icy conditions. However, they’re also one of the most vulnerable components of your car when winter sets in. Factors like ice buildup, the weight of the snow, and freezing temperatures can cause damage like cracked rubber blades, bent wiper arms, and even strain on the wiper motor. If you want to maintain your wipers in good condition and avoid costly repairs—or a full windshield replacement—raising them early on is one of the easiest ways to protect them during snowy weather.
What Happens When You Don’t Raise Your Wiper Blades?
If you leave your windshield wipers down during a big storm, winter weather can wreak havoc. Snow and ice will harden around the rubber blade and wiper motor, making it difficult for your wipers to function properly. This can lead to:
- Ice buildup on the rubber windshield wiper blade, cracking the material and shortening its lifespan.
- Bent wiper arm springs, affecting the pressure they exert on the windshield.
- Straining or burning out the wiper motor, which is costly to replace.
- Frozen windshield wipers, making them ineffective when you need them most.
Raising your wiper blades to an upright position prevents them from freezing to your windshield. Plus, removing snow and ice from the entire windshield becomes a lot simpler when the blades are out of the way.
How to Raise Your Wiper Blades the Right Way
Raising your vehicle’s windshield wipers is quick and easy, but here’s the best way to do it:
- Park Your Car Safely: Whether you’re in North Dakota, upstate New York, or anywhere facing significant snowfalls, ensure your parked car is in a safe, level area away from passing traffic. This includes Charlotte and our possible snowfall coming this weekend!
- Put Windshield Wipers in an Upright Position: Gently lift the wiper arms away from the windshield until they stay raised on their own. Be careful not to force them beyond their range.
- Use Protective Measures if Necessary: For extra protection, you can cover your lifted wiper blades with plastic bags to prevent ice build-up directly on the blades.
- Clear Snow the Right Way: Use an ice scraper and snow brush to remove debris before you lower the blades back down. Never pour hot water onto a frozen windshield—it can crack the glass!
The Benefits of Raising Your Wipers Before a Storm
Still wondering if this is a valid point? Here’s why raising your wipers is a good idea before a snowy weather event:
- Prevents Damage: Protect your wiper arms, motor, and rubber blades from damage caused by ice and snow.
- Saves Time: No more chiseling frozen wiper blades off a cold windshield.
- Maintains Wiper Functionality: Keep your wipers in good condition throughout the winter months for clear visibility during icy weather.
- Enhances Safety: Functional winter blades paired with a clear windshield lead to safe driving, no matter the storm.
Additional Winter Driving Tips
Raising your wiper blades isn’t the only step you can take to winterize your car. Follow these tips to keep your vehicle in top shape this season:
- Invest in Winter Wiper Blades: Heavy-duty winter blades are designed to handle the weight of the snow and tough icy conditions.
- Use Proper Windshield Washer Fluid: Swap out standard fluids for one designed for sub-zero temperatures—this prevents freezing at the freezing point.
- Remote Start Your Car*: If you have new vehicles with remote start, use it to warm your vehicle beforehand. This helps defrost the windows faster and eliminates the need for manual scraping.
- Check Your Wipers Regularly: Replace new wipers as needed. Dull or cracked wipers will smear ice and snow rather than clear it.
- Keep an Ice Scraper and Snow Brush Nearby: These are essential tools for clearing your frozen windshield.
Final Thoughts
Managing your windshield wiper blades in cold weather seems like a small task, but it can have a huge impact on your car’s performance and safety during winter weather. Simple steps—like raising your wipers—can save you from costly damage and improve your vehicle winterization efforts.
Need Expert Help?
Noticed chips, cracks, or other issues with your windshield due to winter conditions? Don’t wait—contact Keffer Auto Glass today for expert repair and support. We’re just a call away and here to ensure your car is ready for any snow storm or icy weather coming your way. Stay safe, car owners!
0 Comments