While the holidays are a great time of year, winter weather can put a damper on all the fun. One of the many things that can ruin your winter is the sound of your windshield wipers screeching every time you turn them on, especially in snowy weather conditions. But did you know that there’s a pretty easy way to avoid that this winter with just a little bit of maintenance? 

How do you fix screeching windshield wipers?

According to FamilyHandyman.com, “To eliminate this noisy issue, first clean your windshield wiper blades with a bit of soap and water and then coat the moving parts with some spray silicone lubricant. The silicone will keep the wiper blades running smoothly and quietly throughout the winter months. You may need to reapply the silicone spray a few times, so add the step to your winterizing routine.”

There are other ways to care for your windshield wipers

Aside from using spray silicone lubricant, there are other ways to care for your windshield wiper blades this coming winter season. In fact, your windshield wipers are one of the most important parts of your car, truck, or SUV, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance. Neglecting your wipers can lead to all sorts of problems, from decreased visibility in bad weather to safety hazards. 

Luckily, caring for your windshield wipers is relatively simple and only takes a few minutes. Below are some tips on how to keep your wipers in tip-top shape:

• Inspect your wipers regularly for cracks, tears, or signs of wear and tear. Replacing your wipers regularly is key to maintaining good visibility and avoiding hazards. It’s recommended to replace your wiper blades every six to twelve months, depending on how often you use them.

• Always clean your windshield before using your wipers. If there’s dirt, grit, grime, or snow on your windshield, it can damage your wipers or cause them to streak. You can also use windshield washer fluid when needed. This will help keep the blades from drying out and cracking.  

• In the winter months, it’s especially important to keep your wipers clean and free of ice and snow. Be sure to clear any ice or snow buildup before using your wipers, as this can damage the blades.

• Using the wrong kind of wiper fluid can actually damage your windshield wipers. In order to avoid this, be sure to use a wiper fluid that’s designed for winter weather conditions. Look for a wiper fluid that has antifreeze properties, so it won’t freeze on your windshield and damage your wipers when you turn them on.

Keep your windshield wipers in excellent condition this winter

Following the simple tips above, you can avoid the annoying screeching noises coming from your windshield wipers this winter! Taking a few minutes out of your day to care for your wipers now will save you time in the long run. So don’t wait until the first snowfall to start preparing—a little bit of effort now can go a long way!