Replacing car wiper blades: When and how often should it be done?

When should you replace your car wipers?

Properly working wiper blades are essential for clear visibility—and your safety behind the wheel. Like tires or brake pads, wipers are wear-and-tear parts and need regular attention. In this article, you’ll learn:

• How worn wipers affect visibility
• Signs it’s time to replace them
• How often to change your wipers
• Tips to extend their lifespan

Why are wipers so important?

Studies show that up to 90% of driving decisions rely on what drivers see through the windshield. Good visibility is non-negotiable, and wipers play a key role—especially in rain, snow, or when the windshield is dirty.

Independent tests confirm that efficient wipers can improve visibility by up to 34% compared to worn ones. That’s a significant safety boost.

Also worth noting: damaged wipers can scratch your windshield. What starts as a minor issue can lead to expensive repairs. That’s why it’s smart to recognize early warning signs.

Signs your wipers need replacing

You should check your wipers regularly—just like tire pressure or oil level. The easiest way? Pay attention while driving in the rain. Reduced visibility is often the first red flag.

Look out for these key signs:

• Streaks on the glass – Caused by worn edges, stuck debris, or hardened rubber.
• Noisy or jerky movement – Often due to hardened rubber or loosened connections.
• Uneven cleaning – May point to bent arms, deformed rubber, or poor blade contact.
• Foggy or hazy windshield – Usually a result of dried-out rubber.

How frequently should you replace wipers?

It depends on usage, climate, and quality—but generally:

We recommend:

• Changing them before or after winter to avoid freezing and cracking.
• Monitoring performance throughout summer, as UV rays speed up rubber aging.

Pro tip from OXIMO®

OXIMO® wipers are made with a silicone-rubber blend, which resists cracking. They also feature a Teflon coating for quieter, smoother operation—even in harsh weather.

Remember: performance drops gradually. Just because the wipers seem “okay” doesn’t mean they’re working at 100%.

Quick self-check: Are your wipers still good?

Sometimes a little dirt makes it seem like your blades are failing. Try cleaning them first. But if you notice:

• Loud sounds during use
• Visible streaks or missed spots
• A foggy film left behind

…it’s time for new blades.

You can also inspect them by hand. If the rubber is cracked, chipped, or crumbling, replacement is necessary.

How to make your wipers last longer

No wiper lasts forever, but you can extend their life with good habits:

• Clean the blades regularly – Use a damp cloth and mild soap to remove grime.
• Scrape off ice and snow – Don’t use wipers to clear heavy build-up.
• Park indoors when possible – This protects rubber from UV damage.
• Use wipers regularly – Unused rubber hardens over time.
• Always wet the windshield first – Never use wipers on dry glass. Friction is 25× higher on a dry surface!

Why choose OXIMO® wipers?

OXIMO® wipers are engineered for durability and performance. What makes them stand out?

• Natural rubber with silicone – More resistant to aging and cracking.
• Teflon coating (PTFE) – For whisper-quiet operation.
• Galvanized steel frame – Built tough for all weather conditions.

Ready for a replacement?

Need new wipers? Use our wiper finder tool on OXIMO.pl to match the exact front and rear blades to your vehicle model.

Don’t wait for poor visibility to remind you—stay ahead of the weather and drive safe with OXIMO®.