Avoid a £2500 fine with these windscreen wiper replacement tips

• As approximately 150,000 motorists faced visibility issues during their MOT, experts have provided an easy guide to fitting your windscreen wipers.

Experts are urging motorists to learn when and how to replace their windscreen wipers, as visibility issues continue to be widespread among British drivers.

This warning comes as 150,000 motorists were found to have visibility issues during their MOT.’

Aside from the fact MOT failures often cause car owners additional costs and inconvenience, driving with faulty windscreen wipers could lead to a fine of £2,500 and three penalty points on your license.

 So, to help drivers avoid these costly fines and the safety risks of poor visibility, the experts atWindscreen Wipers have shared their guide to replacing wiper blades quickly and conveniently.

1. Spot the signs of wear and tear

If your windscreen wipers are skipping, streaking, squeaking, or splitting, then its likely time for a new one.

However, if you want to double check, then you should inspect the rubber blades. Here, you are looking for signs of cracks, bends, or other signs of damage on the blades – if you spot any, you should replace them as soon as possible.

2. Choose the right wipers

Before you can remove your old wiper blade, you need to make sure that you’ve bought the correct wiper blade for your vehicle. The best place to start is your car’s manual, which will specify the exact size and type of wiper blades needed.

If you cannot find your manual or are still unsure, then visit an auto parts store or use awindscreen wiper finder. These tools and services will help you find the right wipers based on your vehicle’s make, model, and year.

3. Remove the old blade carefully

To install the new wiper blade, begin by lifting the wiper arm away from the windscreen until it locks into a vertical position. Check that the wiper arm is stable and won’t move during the replacement process - otherwise it will snap back and damage the glass.

 Once secure, remove the old wiper blade by locating and pressing the small tab where the blade connects with the arm, then carefully slide it off without bending the arm.

4. Attach the new wiper blade

After the old blade has been removed, align the new one with the wiper arm. You should be following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure correct positioning of the blade. However, if this isn’t possible or you need more guidance, then turn to video tutorials via an online fitting guide.

For most wiper blades, you simply slide them into place until they click. To test whether they are attached, gently tug on them to ensure they won’t come loose. Once in place, carefully lower the wiper arm back onto the windscreen.

5. Test the new wipers

After attaching the new wiper blades, it’s important to test them to ensure they are functioning properly. To do this, spray washer fluid onto the windscreen and turn on the wipers. If they don’t streak, squeak or skip, then they have been fitted correctly.

There you have it, five steps to replace your wiper blades quickly and conveniently.