Most drivers know they should check their tyre pressure, change their oil, and keep their fuel topped up. But there’s one small habit that can prevent damage, improve safety, and save you hundreds of dollars over time — and it’s so simple, you can do it in under five minutes.
Why Small Maintenance Habits Matter
When it comes to car care, neglecting the little things often leads to big bills later on. A worn wiper blade, for example, might seem harmless until you’re caught in a downpour with streaky glass and impaired visibility. Not only does this increase the risk of an accident, but over time, the dirt and debris left unremoved can scratch your windscreen — an expensive fix compared to a quick, affordable replacement from places like wipertech.com.au.
This principle applies to many other overlooked habits. A small, inexpensive action today can prevent costly repairs tomorrow.
The Habit: Regularly Checking and Cleaning Your Wiper Blades
It’s not glamorous, and it’s not the first thing most people think of when they picture “car care.” But keeping your wiper blades in good condition is one of the easiest ways to maintain visibility, extend the life of your windscreen, and avoid dangerous driving conditions.
Here’s why it matters:
- Safety — Clear vision is essential, especially in heavy rain or snow. Worn blades can leave streaks or miss large sections of glass entirely.
- Prevention — Dirt, grit, and debris can scratch your windscreen if dragged across by damaged blades.
- Cost savings — A good set of wipers costs far less than windscreen repair or replacement.
How to Check Your Wiper Blades in Under Five Minutes
You don’t need a mechanic to do this. Here’s a quick, simple check you can make part of your monthly routine:
- Lift the wipers off the windscreen to inspect the rubber.
- Look for cracks, splits, or hard edges — these are signs they need replacing.
- Run your fingers along the blade to feel for any rough spots or debris.
- Wipe them clean with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove built-up dirt.
- Test them with washer fluid to make sure they clear water evenly.
If you spot any damage, replacing wiper blades is a quick DIY job — no special tools required.
Other Overlooked Habits That Save Money
While checking your wipers is a great start, here are a few more habits that deliver long-term savings:
- Top up fluids before they run low — Brake, transmission, and coolant levels are critical to prevent costly damage.
- Check tyre pressure regularly — Proper inflation improves fuel efficiency and reduces uneven wear.
- Clean the interior — Dirt and grime can wear out upholstery and controls faster than you think.
- Wash and wax your car — Protects the paint from rust, fading, and corrosion.
Making It a Routine
The key to benefiting from these small habits is consistency. You could set a monthly reminder in your phone or tie the habit to something you already do, like filling up your fuel tank.
It’s easy to dismiss small car care tasks as unimportant, but when you think about how much you rely on your vehicle — for work, family, and everyday life — the few minutes you invest each month are well worth it.
You don’t have to be a mechanic to keep your car running smoothly. A little preventative maintenance, especially with often-ignored items like wiper blades, can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run while keeping you safer on the road.
Think of it as an investment — not just in your car, but in your peace of mind every time you turn the key.