Performing a routine light and wiper check is an important part of keeping your vehicle safe, dependable, and on the road longer.

This is because both lights and wipes play an essential role in safe driving – your chances of getting into a major accident increase exponentially if you can’t see or be seen.

What Do the Light and Wiper Systems Do?

Your vehicle’s wiper system keeps excessive water, snow (hey, it can happen!), or dirt from buildup on your windscreen. It ensures you always have a clear view of the road and your surroundings.

You can use your vehicle’s lights for signaling, viewing objects in the vehicle’s interior, and to make sure that other vehicles can clearly see you during night driving.

As you can see, if there is a problem with either, you are placing yourself at immediate risk.

When Do I Need a Light and Wiper Check?

 More often than you might think. Vehicle lights and wipers are both “normal wear items” and will require periodic replacement.

Just how long you’ll need to go before checking and replacing them depend on a few factors like:

  • Operating conditions (extreme temperature conditions are tough on wiper blades)
  • Frequency of use
  • Material and type of lights and wipers
  • Sunny weather – wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in desert states (just what Aussies wanted to hear).

How Do I Know It’s Time for a Light and Wiper Check?

When something’s wrong with your lights or wipers – you’ll know. But, just in case, here are a few things that you can look out for:

  • Chattering or Streaking Windscreen Wipers

 If your windscreen wipers “bump” or “chatter” over the top of the glass instead of moving in one fluid motion, you need to get them looked over. Another sign of damage is when instead of clearing your windscreen, they simply cause massive streaks to appear.

  • Rapid Signal Blinking

We are all relatively familiar with the speed and cadence of our vehicle’s signaling systems. However, if you notice your signal suddenly seems to be blinking along with an unheard techno song, it’s time to have it looked at.

  • Dimming Lights

If your headlights are not as bright as they used to be, it’s time for an inspection. Sometimes it’s an easy fix (e.g. the light’s plastic casing is cloudy and needs to be cleaned), but sometimes you might need an entirely new light.

Do you need help with a light and wiper check?

The friendly team at Sutherland Automotive is here to help. Feel free to get in touch today.