- wipers
Windscreen Wiper FAQs
Updated 14 Mar 2024
AutoGuru
Proper maintenance of your windscreen wipers is crucial for safe driving, as they play a vital role in keeping your windshield clean and providing you with a clear view of the road ahead. Remember to check your wipers regularly and replace them when needed to maintain optimal visibility and driving safety. Here are frequently asked questions!
Is it legal to drive with non-functioning wipers?
No. A driver needs to have a clear view of the road ahead. In poor visibility conditions such as rain, fog or snow, the driver must be able to remove any obstacles from the windscreen to safely view the road.
How long should windscreen wipers last?
There is no set rule for the lifespan of windscreen wipers. Quality of manufacture and the materials from which they are made play an important part in how long they last. However, the conditions the wipers are in have significant ramifications. If a vehicle is left outside in the sun, is never washed and the wipers are left to get dry and dirty then the wiper materials will break down quicker.
Why are my windscreen wipers smearing?
When windscreen wipers deteriorate, the rubber or silicon edge of the blade can get out of shape or develop grooves. This means the edge is no longer clean and straight and won’t be as effective at cleaning the windscreen as when it was new. A streaky or smeared windscreen is a sure sign that the wipers on your car need to be replaced.
Do I need to use windscreen wiper fluid?
It is recommended that wiper washer fluid is used in place of water due to its ability to break down dust, dirt, bugs and debris. Good wiper fluid is a detergent for the windscreen and comes in pre-mix or concentrate. When using concentrate, ensure the correct mixture as suggested otherwise some fluids could stain your paint. It is recommended to use an effective windscreen wiper fluid that is also friendly to the environment.
Written By
AutoGuru
AutoGuru is a collective of creatives and technologists with a single mission: to transform the way vehicle maintenance is managed.
For over a decade, we’ve been building technology that removes friction from managing automotive maintenance, making auto care easy for drivers, service providers, and fleet managers.Our award-winning digital product portfolio includes:
- Autoguru.com.au, Australia’s #1 auto services marketplace,
- FleetGuru®, fleet maintenance management platform digitising approvals and streamlining payments for some of Australasia’s largest fleet operators,
- FleetGuru.ai, AI-powered maintenance operating system connecting international fleet management companies, their clients, and drivers across borders for maintenance scheduling, authorisation and payments,
- BookingGuru, white label booking solution powering online bookings and payments for car servicing and repairs, and
- Reserve with Google Automotive Bookings, a unique integration enabling car servicing and repairs to be booked directly with service providers from Google Search & Maps.