Aside from the inconvenience and additional costs of failing your MOT, neglecting to confirm this component’s functionality could lead to fines and points on your license, never mind serious accidents
Experts have urged Brit drivers to carry out some simple windscreen wiper checks that will not only improve road safety, but might also save you a small fortune and some massive headaches.
Recent figures show that around 150,000 motorists in the UK failed their MOTs due to visibility issues in the past year. Forgetting to ensure your wipers are working properly can also result in a fine of up to £2,500 and three points on your licence.
With autumn and winter bringing wet and slippery conditions, keeping your eyes on the road is more important than ever. Windscreen wipers are one of the simplest components to maintain, yet their importance is often overlooked, with drivers only realising there’s a problem when heavy rain starts falling.
READ MORE: M25 ‘road rage brawl’ as woman drags motorist from car by hairREAD MORE: Swerve £2,500 fine and 9 points on your license with clever 30p hack
Experts at Vertu Motors have provided a guide, showing you how to make quick checks and know when their lifespan is coming to an end.
One of the clearest signs that a wiper blade is no longer working properly is the noise it makes when in use. As the experts explained: “A common sign of a worn-out wiper is a ‘juddering’ or skipping noise as it moves across the glass.”
This typically happens when the rubber becomes brittle over time, meaning it can no longer glide smoothly. By running the wipers with the washer fluid and listening for a distinctive chattering sound, drivers can identify whether the blades have hardened and require replacing.
Another useful check is to inspect the glass after the wipers have been used. “Even the smallest nick or tear in the wiper blade can leave behind smears or streaks, dangerously impairing your view,” the industry insiders warned.
These streaks are especially hazardous when driving in low sunlight or at night, as the glare caused by water smears makes it harder to see. If you notice fine lines or a hazy residue left behind after activating your wash function, it is likely the wiping edge has deteriorated and needs immediate replacement.
Want big news with big heart? Get the top headlines sent straight to your inbox with our Daily Newsletter
Drivers are also encouraged to carry out what Vertu’s experts call the “finger test” — lifting the wiper arm clear of the windscreen and gently running a finger along the length of the rubber edge.
They said: “If you feel any rough patches, chips, or sections that are peeling, the blade’s integrity is gone and it needs replacing.” This test can help to identify damage that is not easily visible, but can have a big impact during heavy rainfall.
Finally, it is important to make sure the wiper blade is securely fixed. As the experts warned: “The wiper blade itself can become loose in its housing on the wiper arm. If it’s not held firmly, it cannot apply even pressure to the glass, resulting in large unwiped patches that create a major blind spot.”
A quick check can be carried out by holding the wiper arm and wiggling the blade to see if it moves. Any looseness should be treated seriously, as it can make the wipers ineffective when you need most.
By taking a few minutes each month to check the condition of your windscreen wipers, you can avoid the hefty fines, points on your licence and the inconvenience of failing your MOT.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.