Driving with old windshield wiper blades on your 2015 Nissan Altima is foolhardy at best and downright dangerous at worst. Generally, it’s recommended that you change your blades every six months to a year at most. Some top brands of 2015 Nissan Altima wiper blades can last longer. For high performance, you can’t go wrong with top brands Bosch, Rain X AdvantEdge, or Duralast.
How Do You Know Its Time To Change Your Wipers
Learn how to check wiper blades. There are a few basic clues to look for that indicate too much wear. These signs include the following:
- Streaks or film on the windshield. If your blades leave streaks behind when you use them, that’s a classic indication that you need new ones. Less often noticed but just as important is a filmy windshield. This means your blades are dirty or worn and are leaving too much residue on the glass.
- Dragging, clattering sounds. These sounds come from wipers that are not in full contact with the windshield. They can only do a partial job in clearing it.
- Damaged rubber. If the rubber portion of the blade is cracked, broken, or trailing strings as it wipes, your blades are too old.
- Bent frames. The metal part of the blade can get damaged or bent. This can happen in car washes or when clearing your windshield of snow and ice. This will prevent the blade from connecting with the windshield properly.
In addition to the above, you should plan on changing your wipers seasonally if you live in an area that gets a lot of ice or snow. Nissan Altima wiper blades designed specifically for harsh winter weather will last the season much better.
Should You Also Replace Your Wiper Fluid?
Maintaining your windshield washer fluid ought to be a part of your regular car service plan. It’s helpful to tie it to another activity so you remember to do it. So if topping off your wiper fluid each time you check your wiper blades reminds you, then plan it that way. If it’s better for you to check the wiper fluid when you get your oil changes, that’s okay, too.
Once again, if you live in an area with cold winters, a seasonal wiper fluid change is a must. Your warm-weather fluid should be a soapy bug wash that removes all the bugs of summer each time you use it. As the weather turns colder, empty this from the reservoir and replace it with a winter mix that contains antifreeze.
Without antifreeze, the fluid might freeze in the reservoir and crack it, damaging both the reservoir and the pump. Fluid will leak out and your entire washer system will fail and need replacement. This is easily avoided by making that seasonal change with the washer fluid.
If you have additional questions about the windshield wipers or the wiper fluid for your 2015 Nissan Altima, stop by your local auto parts store or check in with your favorite online auto parts retailer.
Photo by Linas Drulia on Unsplash