Aftermarket October 2022

F ollowing months of hot weather, many vehicles could be heading into the autumn with UV-damaged wiper blades, with symptoms including cracked rubber. TRICO’s Group Brand and Marketing Manager (UK) Sam Robinson observed: “Ultraviolet light from the sun causes damage, particularly to the rubber wiper element of the blade, especially if the car sits in the full sun for the majority of the day. The intense light, combined with its heat, can impact the rubber, making it crack, which will lead to smearing on the windscreen when the wiper is in use. Damage Sam continued: “With the extreme heat the UK has experienced over the last few months, this has presented the perfect upselling opportunity to factors and technicians with regards to wiper blades, especially as the hot weather will inevitably ease and give way to wetter conditions as we go into autumn and winter.” Tell-tale signs that indicate that wiper blades need replacing include streaking instead of cleaning, chattering blade action and smearing of debris and water across the screen. 48 AFTERMARKET OCTOBER 2022 WIPERS www.aftermarketonline.net CLEAN SLATE, CLEAN SCREEN With the warm weather already receding, it’s time to really think about windscreen wipers Said Sam: “Even if there are signs of these faults appearing it is recommended to change the wipers before further deterioration occurs, as they are such a safety crucial component and need to be in premium condition for the winter months. As we all know, wiper blades are looked at as a distress purchase and only replaced when they are almost falling apart, or because the vehicle will fail its MOT. We’re trying to change that mindset by educating technicians and factors on what to look out for when it comes to blades.” He added: “With the ever changing and unpredictable weather we experience in the UK, drivers need to be prepared for all weather conditions, but with it being so hot recently, we know that technicians and factors were not even thinking of selling wiper blades, when in reality, it’s been the perfect time to do so. Luckily wiper blades are relatively inexpensive components when compared to other parts, so drivers may be willing to spend an extra £20 just because their vehicle is already in the workshop and they don’t have to fit them themselves.” MOT If wipers are not at their best, they can also cause a car to fail its MOT as WAI Managing Director Richard Welland