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When To Replace GM Windshield Wiper Blades

Under normal circumstances, windshield wipers last between 6 and 12 months. If you live in a wet and/or harsh climate, your wipers may not last that long. Windshield wiper blades are made with rubber, which degrades over time. Direct sunlight and excessive use will make your wipers wear out faster.

If you want optimal visibility during bad weather, make sure your windshield wipers are in good shape. It only takes a couple of minutes to check your wipers every now and then. We'll show you how.

Telltale Signs That You Need To Replace Your Wipers

Ripped wiper blade

When in use, worn wiper blades can't do the job very well. So if you're driving and using your wiper blades, you should be able to tell if they're bad. Here are some of the most common signs of worn wiper blades:

  • Streaks across the windshield
  • Squeaking or scratching noise as the wipers drag across the windshield
  • Scratches on your windshield
  • Loose rubber blades flailing about when the wipers are in use

If you notice any of those signs while driving in bad weather, replace the wiper blades ASAP. Your wiper blades play a big part in your safety in bad weather. We always tell our customers to keep a set of replacement wiper blades in their vehicles (more on this later).

What To Look For When Inspecting Your Wiper Blades

Whether you're doing a routine inspection or confirming that your wiper blades are bad, you need to know what to look for. Grab a flashlight and then inspect your wiper blades for:

  • Cracks in the rubber blade
  • Missing pieces in the edge of the rubber blade
  • Any bent areas in the rubber blade or the plastic backing
  • Heavy wear (overly flexible, stripped down, etc.)
  • Any missing or loose rubber blades

If you find any of these signs of wear, you need to replace your wipers ASAP.

Keep A Set Of Replacement Wipers In Your Car At All Times

OEM GM wiper blades

The smart thing to do is to keep a set of replacement wipers in your car at all times. Replacing your wipers is very easy. It takes only a couple of minutes, and you don't need any tools. So if you're using your wipers and you notice that they're bad, you can pull over and replace them on the spot. It's important for your wipers to function well at all times. They help keep visibility optimal in inclement weather.

Wiper blades come in different sizes. So you can't really just buy the first set you see at an auto parts store. You need to get wiper blades that are the right size. They also need to be curved the right way to ensure that the rubber blades touch your windshield at all times. There are three ways to make sure you get wipers that are the correct size:

  1. Measure the wiper blade length
  2. Check your owner's manual for the correct size
  3. Look up your GM model in our catalog of wiper blades, and we'll give you the right OEM part number

The last option is the easiest option. You'll be getting OEM replacement wipers made for your GM model without a lot of effort on your part. If you need help finding the right wipers for your car, you're welcome to contact us.