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

Most Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids area. 78% of drivers only change their wiper blades after the blades function so poorly that they become a safety hazard.

Grand Rapids 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.

Grand Rapids 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 Michigan , you may even want to get special winter blades in the fall.

Winter blades are made to resist freezing. Speaking of winter and freezing Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids recommends Grand Rapids drivers replace worn blades right away. We can provide you with a quality replacement blade. At Tuffy Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids
610 28th St. SE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548
616.452.4425