Windshield Wipers – Quick Guide for Choosing, Installing & Maintaining

Got streaky vision after the first rain? Most drivers don’t think about wipers until they start squeaking. The truth is, a good set of wiper blades does more than clear water – they keep you safe and save you money by avoiding costly glass damage.

In this guide we’ll walk you through the signs that tell you it’s time for new blades, how to pick the right size, and the legal bits about rear wipers in the UK. By the end you’ll know exactly what to buy and how to fit it without a trip to the garage.

When to Replace Your Wiper Blades

Most people replace wipers once a year, but you can tell sooner. Look for these clues:

• Squeaking or chattering: The blade is no longer pressing evenly on the glass.
• Streaks or smears: If water leaves lines, the rubber is hardened or torn.
• Missed spots: The blade skips parts of the windshield, especially the corners.
• Visible wear: Cracks or split rubber on the edge mean the blade is done.

Even if the weather’s mild, you should check the blades every few months. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can reveal cracks you missed before.

Choosing the right size is easy when you bring the old blade to the store or look up your car’s make and model online. Most shops, including Northwich Tyres Centre, have a lookup chart – just type in your registration and you’ll see the exact length for both the driver’s and passenger’s side.

When you buy, consider these options:

• Standard rubber: Cheap, works well in moderate climates.
• Silicone‑coated: Lasts longer, repels water better for rainy regions.
• Beam‑style: No external frame, good for high‑speed driving and uneven glass.

Installation takes five minutes. Lift the arm, press the release tab, slide the old blade off, and snap the new one in place. Lower the arm gently and give the wipers a quick test run.

Legal Stuff about Rear Wipers in the UK

Thinking of taking off the rear wiper to save a buck? Think again. The UK’s MOT test rules require a functional rear wiper on vehicles built after 1995, unless the car is classified as a “trailing vehicle” (like a horse trailer). Removing it can lead to an MOT failure and may affect your insurance.

If the rear wiper is on its last legs, replace it instead of ripping it out. The part isn’t expensive, and fitting it keeps you on the right side of the law. Northwich Tyres Centre offers a range of rear wiper kits that match most UK models.

When you’re at the shop, ask the tech to check the wiper’s alignment. A mis‑aligned rear wiper can leave streaks that look like damage, even though the blade itself is fine.

In short, keep both front and rear wipers in good shape. It’s a small cost that protects your visibility, keeps you MOT‑legal, and avoids dangerous night‑time drives.

Ready to upgrade? Drop by Northwich Tyres Centre in Northwich. Their staff can help you pick the perfect blades, fit them on the spot, and even check your wheel alignment while you’re there. Clear vision, safe driving – it all starts with a good wiper.