By properly taking care of your windshield wipers, you can improve your overall visibility, maintain a lasting windshield, and cut back on the frequency in which you have to buy new wipers. Thanks to advancements in technology, maintaining your windshield wipers is now simpler than ever.

With well-maintained wipers, you’ll have lasting defense against stormy weather, nasty road grime, and damaging dust particles that ruin your windshield. Before going through the steps make sure you gather the equipment needed to take care of your wipers:

• Paper towels or rags

• Glass washing solution

• Ice scraper

• Windshield washer solution

After collecting the proper tools, you’re ready to start the simple six-step process of taking care of your wipers.

1. De-grime when you gas

First and foremost, you should wipe down your windshield wiper blades each and every time you fill you car up with gas. Using a damp paper towel or rag and your window washing solution, lift each wiper blade away from the windshield and firmly run the moist towel along the blade from one tip to the other. If you don’t have personal window washing solution, consider using the window solution available by the gas pumps.

2. Frequently Wash The Windows

Though it may sounds simple and obvious, frequently washing your car windows will help maintain the overall integrity of both your windshield and your wipers by removing accumulated debris, bird droppings, dead bugs and other insect splatters, and much more. By removing these from your windshield you can protect your blades from catching, fraying, and tearing.

3. Never Run Wipers On Dry Windows

Running the wipers on dry windows can be harmful to both the blades and the windshield itself. If it isn’t snowing or raining, make sure to apply washer fluid on the windshield before running the wipers.

4. Remove Snow Before Using Wipers

It’s important to remove all snow and ice off your windshield before running the wipers. Use your snow scraper to chip off any ice, and be sure to clear off heavy snow. Similarly, you should allow the car to run long enough for the ice to melt before using your wipers. Take note too, that by lifting wipers away from the windshield while your car is parked during snowy conditions will prevent the blades from freezing to the window.

5. Cover Your Car

Perhaps the best way to prevent your blades from dry rotting or getting damaged is to keep your car out of direct sunlight whenever possible. Try to park in the shade, use a windshield cover, or park in a garage to avoid brittle rubber blades.

6. Inspect Frequently

To ensure your blades are in good condition, try to inspect the wiper arms and blades at least once a month. If you notice damages like bent or broken wipers arms, replace them immediately. Even if your blades appear to be in good shape, try to replace them at least once a year, preferably before cold winter months.

One of the best ways to help your car last as long as possible is with a reliable auto insurance policy. Check out tips from Insurance Center Associates on how you can make your car last longer.