ConserveNature
enthusiast
Posts: 175
Reg: 10-15-05
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05-16-14 10:06 AM - Post#168596
Is there a way to determine when windshield wipers should be changed? Mine don't look worn but I also don't want to have a problem when I get the yearly inspection.
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Lisatexmom
enthusiast
Posts: 854
Reg: 01-19-05
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05-16-14 11:17 AM - Post#168599
In response to ConserveNature
You can go to Auto Zone and they will check them for you and more then likely replace them for you as well for free.
| Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Walk beside me and be my friend. - Albert Camus |
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denisew
Community Expert
Posts: 9248

Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 02-18-02
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05-16-14 09:15 PM - Post#168608
In response to Lisatexmom
If they are warped or not removing water from your windshield properly, they most likely need to be changed. If they appear to be working properly, it shouldn't be a problem with your inspection.
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Michael
enthusiast
Posts: 2078

Loc: Allen
Reg: 05-20-02
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05-21-14 07:44 AM - Post#168724
In response to denisew
I buy just the refills. They keep them behind the counter because they want you to buy the full wiper blade assembly for more $$$
The refills are very cheap and easy to change. I always have a spare set in my garage for whenever they are needed.
| I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it! |
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civicminded
Community Guide
Posts: 9576
Loc: Lone Star State
Reg: 04-24-02
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06-17-14 11:27 AM - Post#169163
In response to Michael
I also monitor mine to make sure they aren't drying out too much. And when cleaning my windshield I often clean the blades off so they don't drag debris around.
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Don4
enthusiast
Posts: 527
Loc: Allen 1993
Reg: 04-11-06
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06-17-14 04:55 PM - Post#169171
In response to ConserveNature
Changing them once a year is good before the inspection or if they chatter or don't wipe evenly, replace them.
If the rubber is torn or separated it will not pass, otherwise it's OK. You'll have to buy the refills in pairs so if one wiper is an 18" and the other is a 24", you will have to buy a pair of each. Save the spares for next year.
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Michael
enthusiast
Posts: 2078

Loc: Allen
Reg: 05-20-02
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06-23-14 06:03 PM - Post#169300
In response to Michael
Well I went to stock up on wiper blade refills this weekend and AutoZone no longer sells them. Does anyone know anyone else that sell just the blade refills?
| I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it! |
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Don4
enthusiast
Posts: 527
Loc: Allen 1993
Reg: 04-11-06
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06-23-14 06:20 PM - Post#169301
In response to Michael
all wiper refills are behind the counter now at Autozone, you have to ask for them. (I have no idea why this has changed other than they probably sell more blades as a result).
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Michael
enthusiast
Posts: 2078

Loc: Allen
Reg: 05-20-02
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06-23-14 09:05 PM - Post#169310
In response to Don4
I usually order them online and then pick up in store. They were not even available online. I emailed corporate and they said:
We appreciate your prompt response to our email and we apologize for the misunderstanding. Unfortunately we do not sell just the blade refills, we sell the whole wiper blade. If you have any further questions please contact us, we will gladly assist you.
Thank you for your business!
The misunderstanding part was at first they thought I was looking for washer fluid refill.
| I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it! |
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DrivinTooFast
enthusiast
Posts: 1878
Reg: 02-20-08
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07-02-14 11:31 AM - Post#169500
In response to Michael
They are $6 each at walmart so not sure what the fuss is all about. If you buy them, just have the inspection place install them if they are needed.
It takes 40 seconds.
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