Adrian Lamb, Managing Director at Excel Automotive Group, discusses the benefits of stocking Champion wiper blades, and provides solutions to a variety of problems typically associated with these essential products.
For end-users with wiper blades that are simply not up to the challenge, whether that’s leaving them with blurry vision, a smeared windscreen or irritating noises to deal with, they’ll be on the lookout for a new set that will allow them to drive with peace of mind.
Although the traditional wiper blade season may be coming to an end, they are, of course, part of the annual MOT test.
The MOT considers the condition of the windscreen, as well as the wipers and washers. A vehicle will fail its MOT if its blades are missing, insecure or in poor condition; a torn rubber, for example, is common fault and reason for failure.
Naturally, replacement blades should also be the right size for the windscreen, so they clear the correct wipe area to ensure the driver has the best possible view of the road ahead.
According to Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) figures, from May 2018 to March 2019, 8.6% of MOT defects fell into the ‘visibility’ category.
For motor factors, wiper blades are a fantastic product to store in-branch, thanks to clever merchandising kits and point of sale material – and with Champion, now distributed by Excel Automotive Group (EAG), they can be assured of selling a product that will pass every challenge.
Champion is an established player within the automotive aftermarket, and EAG stocks all three of its ranges.
Common wiper problems
‘My wipers don’t clear some areas’
If wipers miss patches, it might be because the blade linkage is damaged or the pressure of the windscreen has decreased. Motorists should change their blades for a brand that delivers excellent ‘blade-to- surface’ pressure across the whole edge. It’s worth investing in a suitable set that clears the windscreen evenly.
‘My wipers are slow’
When windscreen wipers are slow, it may be caused by a problem with the wiper motor. Sometimes, the mechanical components inside are clogged, which can impact its speed. If this is the case, a technician will need to address this problem.
‘My wipers make streaks’
If blades are making streaks, it’s probably due to a deformed rubber, a worn linkage or wiper arm. Wipers that have a high- grade rubber element are best-equipped to deliver streak-free performance.
‘My wipers are squeaking or juddering’
This could be some oil, wax, dirt or grease on the windscreen that may be preventing the blade from properly wiping the water, so there are a few things that can be tried to resolve this issue.
Clean the windscreen thoroughly with soapy water and glass cleaner, and also clean the wiper rubber with alcohol wipes or alcohol solution on a paper towel.
‘My windscreen wipers will not work’
If the blades don’t function at all, it’s probably an electrical problem – possibly a blown fuse; however, a fuse will only burn out if there is a power overload. A technician will be able to diagnose the electrical issue and fix it quickly to avoid any further damage to other components.
