Audi windscreen wipers
Your windscreen wipers are one of the most crucial safety features on your Audi. They improve visibility, allowing you clear sight on the roads.
To keep them in top condition, you need to replace them occasionally.
But when should you replace the windscreen wipers on your Audi?
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover all you need to know about keeping your windscreen wipers in peak condition.
Why should windscreen wipers be replaced?
Want to stay safe on the road? Then a clear, unobstructed view of the road is required. Your windscreen wipers play a crucial role in maintaining clear vision while driving, especially during challenging weather conditions such as snow, sleet, or rain.
Over time, your Audi’s wiper blades might become worn and won’t function as effectively, potentially leading to streaks or smears on your windscreen that can obscure your view of the road. This could significantly increase your risk of an accident.
Additionally, worn wiper blades may scratch your Audi’s windscreen because of the metal wiper arm rubbing against the glass. It’s an issue that can lead to costly repairs and even a full windscreen replacement.
However, by regularly replacing your windscreen wipers, you maintain optimum visibility while driving and avoid costly repair bills. What more could you ask for?
At SB Autocare, our skilled technicians are Audi experts and can help you with any of your windscreen wiper issues.
Signs you need to replace your Audi’s windscreen wipers.
If you’re looking to keep your Audi windscreen wipers in peak condition, you need to keep an eye on their performance, as ineffective wipers can impact clear vision and in turn, road safety.
Signs of worn-out wipers include:
- Streaking: This occurs when damaged or worn wiper blades leave a hazy pattern on the windscreen, reducing visibility.
- Skipping: If your Audi’s wipers don’t make steady contact with the windscreen, it could mean the windscreen blades have hardened or warped. This issue should not be ignored.
- Smearing: Wipers that smear water rather than clearing your screen usually indicate a greasy or dirty blade, which can affect your visibility on the road.
By spotting these signs early, you can keep your wipers effective while improving your safety on the road.
What type of windscreen wipers does your Audi need?
So what type of windscreen wipers does your Audi need? Let us help you.
There are a few varieties of windscreen wipers available for your Audi:
- Traditional Rubber Blades: These are the most common Audi windscreen blades. They’re generally cost-effective and provide good performance in varying weather conditions. But they can wear out relatively quickly, particularly during extreme temperatures, leading to more frequent replacements.
- Silicone Blades: Silicone blades are known for their durability and ability to withstand the harshest weather conditions without losing efficiency. They have a smooth operation and remain quiet. However, their superior performance and durability come with a higher price tag.
- Beam Blades: Beam blades are the latest in windscreen wiper technology; they boast a one-piece design without external framing. The design provides an excellent fit on the curved windscreens of modern vehicles. While they have excellent performance, they’re more expensive.
When choosing the best windscreen wipers for your Audi, it’s important to consider your budget, the typical weather conditions in your region, and the frequency at which you’re willing to replace your wipers.
Choosing the correct wiper blade size for your Audi
To determine the wiper blade size for your Audi, you should first refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Your Audi owner’s manual will show you the precise dimensions of the wiper blades your particular model needs.
If your owner’s manual is unavailable, you could try a more hands-on approach: measure the blades yourself.
Using a tape measure, measure the length of the blade from one end to the other. Do this for both front and rear wipers, as their sizes will likely differ.
Another option could be to look at some online stores. Some have databases that can tell you the correct wiper blade size for your Audi by using the year and model of your Audi.
Alternatively, if both of these options aren’t viable or you would prefer to seek some professional guidance, we recommend visiting our Audi specialists at SB Autocare. We have decades of experience working on all Audi models and have the skills required to solve any issues your vehicle may have.
Tools and materials needed for a wiper blade replacement
To replace your Audi’s wiper blades, you will need the following:
- New wiper blades – You will need to purchase the correct wiper blades, specifically designed to fit your Audi model, from an automotive retailer or a local Audi parts dealer.
- A screwdriver – Some Audi models require a screwdriver, often a flat-head or a Phillips-head, so ensure you have one handy.
- A pair of needle-nose pliers – You may need these if your Audi’s wiper arm is stiff or difficult to adjust.
- A soft cloth or towel – Use this to protect your windscreen during the replacement process.
- A pair of robust gloves – These will protect your hands while dealing with the metal components of your window wiper blades.
Need help? Don’t hesitate to call us. Our Audi experts can fit new wiper blades. Call SB Autocare today.
Removing the old wiper blades from your Audi
Looking to remove your Audi’s wiper blades? |It’s a straightforward job one of our Audi team are more than happy to help you with, or you can give it a go yourself by following our step-by-step guide below:
- Turn off your Audi’s engine to prevent any accidental movement of the wiper blades.
- Gently lift your wiper arm away from the windscreen so it’s in an upright position, so you can access the blade assembly easily.
- Locate the release mechanism (small tab or button at the joint where the wiper blade meets the arm). This will vary depending on your Audi model.
- Press the tab or button down while simultaneously pulling the wiper blade down towards the windscreen.
- Your vehicle’s wiper blade should disconnect from the wiper arm. If it doesn’t, try pressing the tab again and repeat the pulling action.
- Gently let the wiper arm down to avoid any potential damage to your windscreen,
once your Audi’s wiper blade is disconnected
- Keep the old wiper blades to hand as a reference for installing the new ones.
Always refer to your Audi owner’s manual for guidance and the exact specifications of the required wiper blades.
Don’t want to change your own wiper blades? We don’t blame you. Let our Audi experts help; call SB Autocare today.
How to install the new wiper blades on your Audi
Follow these steps to have your new Audi wiper blades installed in no time:
- Check the Correct Replacement: Consult your Audi owner’s manual or visit your local Audi parts dealer, ensuring you have the right wiper blades for your Audi model.
- Lift the Wiper Arm: Carefully lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen.
- Align the New Blade: Position your new blade with your vehicle’s wiper arm, ensuring it’s in line with the clip.
- Attach the New Blade: Press the new blade into the clip until you hear a click. Your new Audi wiper blade should now be securely attached.
- Lower the Wiper Arm: Gently place the wiper arm back against the windscreen.
- Repeat the Process: Repeat the process for the other wiper blade.
- Test the New Blades: Perform a dry run to confirm the new blades are correctly aligned and working as expected.
Need further assistance? Call SB Autocare for expert help.
Additional maintenance tips for Audi windscreen wipers
The best way to ensure you get the most out of your Audi’s windscreen wipers is to perform regular maintenance.
Regular cleaning
Regular cleaning is vital as it will remove dust, grime, and other road debris that can easily accumulate on the blades.
To keep them clean, gently wipe them using a clean, damp cloth. Doing so once a week is ideal.
Use Audi-approved windscreen washer fluid
We advise using an Audi-approved windscreen washer fluid rather than plain water. Plain water may not remove stubborn contaminants as effectively and can also freeze in frosty conditions.
Park in a sheltered area
If you’re not using your vehicle, try to park in a sheltered area. This will protect your Audi wipers from extreme weather conditions.
Harmful UV rays from sunlight can dry out, and even crack the rubber on your wiper blades, whilst freezing conditions can cause the blades to stiffen and crack.
Lift your wipers off of the windscreen during frosty weather
As simple as this one is, it’s one of the most overlooked tips to keeping the blades in good condition.
By lifting your Audi’s wipers from your windscreen during frosty weather, you prevent them from sticking to the glass.
By carrying out these maintenance steps, you’ll enhance the performance and longevity of your Audi’s windscreen wipers.
How often should the windscreen wipers be replaced?
If you’re looking to keep your Audi running safely, you can’t neglect your windscreen wipers.
At SB Autocare, we advise replacing your windscreen wipers at least once every 12 months.
However, this could change, depending on the following:
- Usage
- Environmental conditions
- The quality of wiper blades used
To keep windscreen wipers in top condition, we recommend inspecting them every six months. A clear windscreen keeps you and others safe on the road.
Notice streaks on the windscreen or hear a squeaking sound during operation? These are signs that your wipers may need replacement. Call SB Autocare for help.
Summary
Replacing the windscreen wipers on your Audi is necessary to keep your vehicle in peak condition. It allows you to stay safe on the road by maintaining clear visibility.
With the right tools and our step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you’ll be ready to handle this maintenance task like a pro.
However, if you’re not entirely confident in doing it yourself and you would prefer professional assistance, don’t panic, we’re here to help.
At SB Autocare, our dedicated team of experts is on hand to assist you with any aspect of Audi maintenance. Whether it’s a windscreen wiper replacement or a more complicated service, we use our decades of experience to keep your Audi in peak condition.
Call SB Autocare today and let our Audi specialists take care of your vehicle.
