Wipers

"I Love a Rainy Night" was one of country music star, Eddie Rabbit's big hits. I'm like Eddie; I love a rainy night, too, except when I have to drive in it. MY windshield wipers are in good shape, but I wonder about the OTHER guy's wipers.

ALSO  •  Listen to this Car Care Tip!

Last year during National Car Care Month more than 20% of the vehicles checked failed the windshield wiper category. That means that the driver of one out of every five cars is trying to peer through a streaked windshield.

Because 90% of driving is visual, poor wipers can severely impair your vision and your decision-making skills. Wiper blades should be inspected often and replaced about every 6 months.

Keeping the windshield washer reservoir is another important part of maintenance for rainy day driving. In wet weather, a truck can splash road grim onto your windshield that seems to adhere to the glass, and it's not coming off without an ample amount of washer fluid. Until you get that mess washed off your windshield, you might as well be driving blind. The Car Care Council suggests keeping a jug of washer solution in the trunk to keep the reservoir topped off.

For more great automotive maintenance information, log on www.carcarecouncil.org.