Summertime the right time to check your wiper blades

Do your windshield wiper blades smear, screech or chatter when you turn them on? If so, you're not alone.

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The normal life expectancy of wiper blades is six to 12 months, but blades should be replaced sooner if they begin to streak, jump or become dull, torn or brittle. Summer's intense sun and heat, mixed with seasonal pollen and dust, can cause the rubber on the wiper blades to crack and deteriorate. A smeared or streaked windshield during a summer storm can hamper visibility and create a potentially dangerous situation.

Replacing wiper blades is not something most vehicle owners think about until they are caught in the rain. It's a good idea to check the condition of your wiper blades periodically and replace them yourself or have them replaced when they begin to show signs of wear.

It only takes a few minutes to replace the wiper blades yourself, and simple instructions are right on the box. Here are two suggestions:

• You can make the wiper blade more accessible by stopping it in the most convenient location with the ignition key.

• Don't use the wiper on-off switch, as it causes the wipers to stop in their parked position.

Also, make sure to check and fill the wiper fluid reservoir on a regular basis.

For more information on wipers, visit www.ulenterprises.com.