There are a variety of wiper blades for your vehicle, each having their own benefits. Conventional or traditional wipers are flat blades on a metal frame with multiple contact points, which can leave missed spots or cause streaking on the windshield. These were commonly installed on older vehicles originally, and may be a suitable replacement for normal driving conditions. Beam blades are frameless, causing them to conform to the shape of the windshield without distinct pressure points to provide better wind resistance and more complete wiping than conventional blades. Hybrid wiper blades are often designed for extreme weather conditions, and prevent ice and snow from sticking to the blades for optimal performance in poor weather.
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When Should You Replace Your Windshield Wipers?
Since windshield wipers are made from rubber, they can weaken, crack, or become brittle over time. Wipers should be replaced every six to twelve months depending on the environment in which they are used, or when you notice the blades skipping, squeaking, or streaking. It’s recommended that your wiper blades be replaced in pairs since they have likely experienced the same amount of use and exposure to the elements. Learn more from O’Reilly’s Parts Professionals about when to change your windshield wipers.
Everything You Need to Know About a Windshield Wiper Motor
A vehicle’s wiper motor is a small electric motor that controls the wiper linkage to move the arms and blades when you turn them on, and there may be a separate motor for your rear wiper if your vehicle is so equipped. Signs that your wiper motor is near the end of its service life includes blades that are moving slowly or not moving at all, if the wipers only function at one speed, or if the wipers stall when they are activated, in addition to noise from the motor. If the wipers will not function and you have ensured that the fuses, relay, and wiper switch are working properly, there is likely an issue with your wiper motor. Learn how to replace a windshield wiper motor yourself to save time and money.