Inspecting the Windscreen Wipers

1 in 5 of all accidents on the road are caused by poor visibility. It is therefore essential to ensure that your windscreen and rear screen wiper blades are in good condition and are working properly; if they cannot clear the screen properly so that you can see the road clearly, then you are creating a danger to yourself and other road users. Not only that, but you can be fined up to £1,000 and incur penalty points on your licence if you are stopped by the police.

A set of wiper blades should last about a year; however, if they are becoming cracked, brittle or are smearing dirty rainwater across the screen or failing to clear it at all, then you should replace them sooner.

Both windscreen blades should be replaced at the same time. It is also recommended that you replace the whole wiper rather than just the rubber blade as it can become damaged and worn.

1. Raise the wiper arm off the screen.
2. Push and hold the locking tab inwards whilst you gently push the blade and holder away from the wiper arm towards the bonnet.
3. Take the new blade and holder and check that you are holding it the right way up by comparing it to the blade on the other wiper arm.
4. Replace the blade and holder on to the wiper arm by reversing the action shown in step 2. Make sure that it fits into place with an audible 'click'.
5. Lower the wiper arm so that the blade sits neatly at the base of the screen. Check that it wipes the screen effectively.

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