Back to all

I Can See Clearly Now: Wiper Blade Replacement in Tampa

January 21, 2024



About 90% of our driving decisions in the Tampa area are based solely on what we see. So having a good pair of windshield wipers is extremely important.

Most Tampa drivers have experienced the frustration and fear of not being able to see clearly during a storm, or when our vehicle windshield is just dirty. In fact, it's estimated that 46,000,000 drivers across the nation are driving with wipers that can't adequately clear their windshield in a storm.

It seems like our wiper blades are always at their worst when we need them the most. If that sounds like you, you've got plenty of company in the Tampa area. 78% of drivers only change their wiper blades after the blades function so poorly that they become a safety hazard.

Tampa drivers need to change their thinking. Instead of blades being something to replace when they fail, we need to consider wiper blades as vehicle safety component. Then we'll stay ahead of the storm.

Tampa vehicle owners really ought to replace wiper blades twice a year; in the spring and the fall. If you live in the colder parts of FL, you may even want to get special winter blades in the fall.

Winter blades are made to resist freezing. Speaking of winter and freezing Tampa conditions, if your vehicle has been sitting for a long time and the windshield becomes frozen, don't use your wipers to clear off snow and ice. That can shred your blades and may even damage the wiper motor.

Your wiper blades live outside in the freezing cold and blistering sun. Over time, they become hard and brittle, and then tear. They also lose their flexibility and just don't clear the vehicle windshield effectively. Worn wiper blades aren't just a safety hazard for Tampa drivers; they can also scratch their windshield. That may require replacing the entire vehicle windshield – that's the consequence for neglecting such a small part.

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center Tampa (Gunn Hwy) recommends Tampa drivers replace worn blades right away. We can provide you with a quality replacement blade. At Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center Tampa (Gunn Hwy), they cost about the same as they would at the store – but installation is included.

Of course you also need washer fluid to help your blades do their work. Even though Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center Tampa (Gunn Hwy) will top off the washer fluid with a full service oil change, it is a good idea to have some extra fluid at home. Take it with you if you're heading out on a road trip.

Always use windshield washer fluid. Plain water, even that fancy French bottled water, just doesn't cut it. It can freeze in the fluid reservoir or on the windshield itself, making things worse. Besides, water won't clean your windows as well.

So follow these tips to keep your windshield clear and your eyes on the road.

Find us at:

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center Tampa (Gunn Hwy)
4353 Gunn Highway
Tampa, FL 33618
813-908-0438
http://www.tuffygunn.com

More articles from Tuffy Gunn

When Your Air Bag Light Comes On (Illuminated Air Bag Light)

February 16, 2025

There are some dashboard lights you should pay more attention to than others. One is the air bag light. If it's on and your vehicle is in an accident, your air bags probably won't do their job. Automakers began installing air bags in the late 1990's since they were mandatory in the United State... More

No Fueling! (Fuel Filler Location)

February 9, 2025

If you've ever gotten in an unfamiliar vehicle, maybe a rental car, you may have pulled up to the gas pump and wondered, "Which side is the fuel filler on?" Here's a tip for you. There is usually a little arrow on the instrument panel near the fuel gauge that points to the side where the fuel fi... More

Smooth Operator (Shocks and Struts)

February 2, 2025

Few of us ever drive somewhere without encountering some pretty rough roads, and it's amazing how well our vehicles are able to smooth out the ride. Thank your shocks and struts. The two parts are similar. Some cars have shocks in the rear, and struts in the front. Others have struts all around... More