If you live in York, then you understand what the weather is like all through the year. For instance, during winter, the weather is not the most friendly, especially for drivers. You expect fog, lots of rain, snow, and cold winds.
The average temperature ranges from 5°C to 6°C, and in January, 3°C. For every driver, the windshield wipers you have during such conditions will determine whether you’ll be driving for long or you will just have to park your car for a while.
It’s clear that dirt and snow can be a cause of blind spots, restricting the view of drivers. A recent AA research suggested that blind spots created by a windshield or wipers not fully sweeping are a threat to almost 44% of drivers. Tim Rankin, MD of the AA’s Accident Assist, claimed that such blindspots have contributed to at least 63 road deaths and more than 1100 serious injuries in the last 5 years. This means that you have to have your windscreens (both front and rear) clear from snow, rain and dirt for safety purposes.
This article will look into some of the things that are essential to consider whenever you are thinking about your car’s wipers. If you can hack the type of wipers to use, then you have hacked a good portion of visibility in your driving.
Select the correct size
Different cars require windshield wipers of different sizes. It would be absurd if you owned a Fiat Panda to get the windshield wipers of a sports car. The wiper blades for Fiat Panda are basically standard, with sizes optimised for smaller windshields, while a sports car may require larger and more aerodynamic wipers.
To find the right wiper blade size, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which lists the correct lengths for each wiper. Alternatively, use a vehicle registration or part selection tool offered by auto parts retailers; simply enter the make, vehicle model, and year of manufacture.
Also, there are different online resources, such as auto part websites, that provide the right tools to help you identify the correct size for your vehicle. A site like AUTODOC has blogs, tips and information on different types of wipers that can work for different cars. In fact, such sites allow you to key the exact model of your car, and you receive recommendations. You shouldn’t have to mess anything up when you have all these resources at your disposal.
The material is just as crucial
Since York has different weather conditions throughout the year, it is vital that you find blade material that can withstand the test of nature. Whether it’s the cold January or the hot August, the blade should be able to operate without squeaking or smearing.
The two main types of blades used for wipers are silicone and rubber. Rubber is mostly preferred for its affordability, while silicone is preferred for its durability. Actually, silicone ones are gaining more popularity in the UK, leading to an increase in the windshield wipers market, which continues to grow. In the UK, that growth is expected to happen at a rate of 2.6% between 2025 and 2035.
When you look at the price difference, rubber wiper blades range between £7-£11 each for each blade. On the other hand, for silicone blades, the average amount is between £15-£30. This price difference normally throws off many people, especially the ones operating with tight budgets.
However, with the different pricing comes a difference in durability. On average, good-quality silicone blades can last up to between 18 and 24 months when driving under normal conditions. Interestingly, with proper care, some silicone blades can last up to 36 months. On the other hand, standard rubber blades have a lifespan of between 6-12 months. They are more subject to wear and tear during hotter weather.
The key point is the maintenance. If you do proper maintenance, like keeping the wiper arms clean and regularly cleaning your windshield before using the blades, then your blades will achieve maximum lifespan.
Look at the type of blade
There are three basic types of wiper blades that you can choose from:
- Conventional/ traditional blades: They feature a metal frame with a rubber blade.
- Beam blade: Feature a one-piece design without pivot points or external frames. They are ideal for curved windshields.
- Hybrid blades: Combine elements of both beam and traditional designs, giving a good blend of durability and flexibility.
The type of blade you choose will very much depend on the shape of your windshield. Also, it might go down to what brand of wipers you are using. Some brands stand out for offering specialised features, which, if you look at your car, might need or not.
Some of the best brands for windshield wipers in York include:
- Bosch: Recommended for their quality and durability.
- Michelin: Good value for hybrid designs
- Valeo: Considered for their performance.
- Lucas: Simple to fit and reliable for people looking for a straightforward replacement.
- Trico: Has a reputation for quality wiper blades.
These are not the only quality brands you can get out there, and you can definitely get more brands that produce quality wipers. As long as the design can withstand the various weather conditions in York, then you are good to go.
Advice for all local drivers
Before you purchase windshield wipers for your car, you should ask yourself a couple of questions. Can you properly maintain your wipers? Is your car designed to fit the wiper blades? Is the cost within your budget? If you are able to answer these questions truthfully, then you can be able to have windshield wipers that not only serve you for long but that will take care of your pocket.
