Mechanics Explain Why You Should Remove Snow Below Your Wipers

We've all been guilty of not clearing all of the snow off our cars before driving. Usually, we're running late for school or work, and we clean enough snow off our windshields to safely see. At least I hope so! I recently learned a tip from a friend about why you should make sure you get all the snow off your windshield, even the crusty stuff below your windshield wipers.

Driving your vehicle with chunks of snow blowing off is actually illegal. So you should probably make a habit of getting all the snow off anyway. But the reason for clearing out all of the snow from your windshield has to do with comfort and safety.

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The area underneath your windshield wipers is where your car's air intake vents are. The vents are right under the windshield, and you want to keep the clear. Not only will it help with your fan's operation, but it also helps defrost your windows quicker. Having the intake covered with snow is a double whammy. Not only will your car take longer to defrost, but so will you! The car's heater will work much more efficiently with clear air intake vents.

Read More: Why You Shouldn't Leave Your Wipers Up During A Snow Storm

It's also important in the summer to keep this area clear of leaves or debris to help your car's fan system work efficiently.

I learned this from Kari Toyota, who had this in the tech tip section of their newsletter. Another important tip when it comes to your windshield wipers is not prop them up during a storm. Some people do this so they won't get frozen or buried under the car. But, over time, this can stretch out the springs that keep your wiper blades tight to the windshield.

Good luck this winter! Hang in there, only a couple of months left before we start to thaw.