Keeping your car’s windshield clear and debris-free is essential for safe driving, especially during inclement weather.
Windscreen wiper blades are crucial in maintaining clear visibility but can wear out over time and become less effective. So how to recondition wiper blades?
Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to deal with your old wiper blade and extend its lifespan, saving you money and ensuring your safety on the road.
This article will explore some simple yet effective techniques for restoring this component to its optimal condition. Let’s read until the end!
How To Recondition Wiper Blades
How to restore wiper blades? There are many ways to restore wiper blades.
Following the instructions to complete the job perfectly is essential, whichever you choose. Below, I will guide you in detail on how to do it.
Preparation
Before you start the task, ensure you have all these things at your home:
- Cleaning materials: You’ll need a soft cloth or sponge, mild soap, and water to clean the blades.
- Rubbing alcohol: This is an optional material that can be used to remove the buildup of dirt or debris.
- Fine-grit sandpaper: You’ll need this to sand any rough spots or imperfections on the blade.
- Conditioning treatment: This is also optional but can help prolong the blades’ life.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Clean the windshield wiper blades
Use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the wiper blades with water and mild soap. Be sure to remove any dirt, grime, or debris on the component.
Step 2: Inspect the blades
Check them for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. They may need to be replaced rather than reconditioned if they are severely damaged.
Step 3: Use rubbing alcohol
Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol and use it to wipe down the blades. This can help to remove any buildup of dirt or debris that may be causing the part to perform poorly.
Step 4: Sand the blades
Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the blades’ surface. This can help to remove any rough spots or imperfections that may be causing the blades to skip or streak.
Step 5: Apply a conditioning treatment
How to soften wiper blades? Apply a conditioning treatment to the component to help soften and restore their flexibility and performance.
Follow the instructions on the conditioning treatment product for the best results.
Step 6: Test the blades
Turn on your wiper system and test the blades to ensure they are working properly.
If the blades are still skipping or streaking, you may need to repeat the conditioning process or consider replacing the blades altogether.
Remember that these steps are general guidelines, and the specific process to restore wiper blades may vary depending on your product or technique.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional if you have any doubts or questions.
Other Methods To Recondition Wiper Blades
Straightening Tool
There are several methods for reconditioning wiper blades, but one of the most common is to utilize a straightening tool.
A straightening tool is a vehicle tool. It is used to straighten bent metal. To use this tool on your wiper blades, grab them from the bottom and spread them apart.
The edge should return to its former beauty. Finally, dry it with a cotton towel before reinstalling it in your vehicle.
Wiper Fluid
While wiper fluid is designed to help clean your windshield and improve the performance of your wiper blades, you can also use it for reconditioning wiper blades.
Wiper fluid contains cleaning agents and sometimes lubricants that can help to remove dirt and debris from the blades.
Yet, it does not have the conditioning properties needed to restore the flexibility of the rubber.
Compressed Air
Wiper blades can become worn out over time. When you turn on your wipers, the rubber may become difficult and begin to squeal.
But it’s not enough to simply return the real dagger!
Another option is to use compressed air. Compressed air has a lot of benefits, such as detecting AC leaks.
First, as normal, install the wiper blades on your windshield.
Then, spray some compressed air for approximately 10 seconds while holding it about 6 inches away from the rubber.
After that, wash down the rubber blade with a dry clean cloth to restore it to its original silky smooth coating.
Vinegar And Water
If your wiper blades are worn, chipped, or cracked, you can recondition them with vinegar and water.
Remove it from the arm and soak it for 15 minutes in a bowl of vinegar and water.
Eliminate the edge from the bowl, brush it clean, and replace it on the wiper arm.
You can also clean the blade with WD-40 to have the same effect if it’s available at your home.
How Often Should We Clean The Wiper Blades?
It is recommended to clean the wiper blades once a month or whenever you notice that the blades are not wiping the windshield properly.
Additionally, you should clean the wiper blades more frequently if you drive in particularly dirty or dusty conditions.
Regular cleaning can prolong the wiper blades’ life and ensure they effectively work when needed.
Some Basic Maintenance Tips
Here are some care tips for maintaining the component to extend its lifespan:
Clean wiper blades regularly
As mentioned earlier, regular cleaning can help to remove dirt, debris, and buildup that can cause the wiper blades to skip or streak.
How to clean wiper blade? Use a soft cloth, sponge, and mild soap to clean the blades and wipe them dry.
Replace worn-out blades
Over time, wiper blades can become worn-out and less effective at clearing the windshield.
If you notice that your blades are leaving streaks or not removing the windshield properly, it may be time to replace them.
Keep your windshield clean
A clean windshield can help to prevent damage to your wiper blades and improve their performance. Use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the windshield regularly.
Be gentle with your wiper blades
Avoid using them to remove heavy debris or ice, as this can damage the blades or wear them out more quickly.
Park your car in a covered area
Exposure to the sun and other elements can speed up the deterioration of the rubber on your wiper blades.
Parking your car in a covered area can help to protect it from the elements and prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion
How to recondition wiper blades? Reconditioning this component can help to improve their performance and extend their lifespan.
With a few simple steps and some basic supplies, you can remove buildup and restore the flexibility of the rubber, which can help to prevent skipping, streaking, and other issues.
Regularly maintaining your wiper blades ensures that they work effectively when needed and enjoy clear visibility on the road, even in challenging weather conditions.