Should You Replace Both Windshield and Wipers at the Same Time?

Smart Auto Glass Advice for Drivers in Southeast Wisconsin

Replacing a cracked or damaged windshield is a clear priority but what about your windshield wipers? If you’re scheduling a replacement, you may be wondering: Should you replace both the windshield and the wipers at the same time?

At Affordable Auto Glass, we often get this question from drivers in Milwaukee, Lake Country, Waukesha, and Jefferson County. The answer? It depends but in many cases, the answer is yes. Here’s why.

First, Understand How Wipers Affect Your Windshield

Before deciding, it’s important to understand how wiper blades and your windshield work together. Over time, wipers wear down due to sun exposure, ice scraping, and debris. Once worn, they can:

• Leave streaks that reduce visibility

• Scratch your windshield with metal or hard rubber edges

• Fail to remove moisture efficiently during rain or snow

If your wipers are damaged or ineffective, they can compromise the performance and clarity of your brand-new windshield sometimes immediately.

Then, Consider the Timing

Replacing your windshield is a great opportunity to start fresh. Since you’re already investing in clear vision and safety, why risk it with worn-out wipers?

Additionally, a new windshield surface may expose flaws in old wiper blades. What previously looked like a clean swipe may now leave streaks or squeak with every pass especially during the first rain after replacement.

Wiper Damage Could Be Why You Needed a Replacement

In some cases, bad wipers may have contributed to the problem. If you’ve had scratches or etching along the glass especially in areas where wipers run, it may be due to:

• Torn wiper blades

• Debris stuck under the rubber

• Uneven blade pressure

Therefore, installing new blades with a new windshield helps ensure you’re not putting your fresh auto glass at risk again.

Wiper Blades Are Affordable and Easy to Replace

Another reason to replace both? Wiper blades are inexpensive and take only minutes to install. Since you’re already getting professional help with your windshield, it’s a small additional cost that delivers big benefits in safety, visibility, and performance.

Even better, Affordable Auto Glass can often replace your wipers at the same time saving you an extra trip or errand.

When Should You Skip Replacing the Wipers?

While it’s generally a good idea, there are a few situations where replacing wipers may not be necessary:

• Your blades were replaced very recently

• They show no signs of wear or damage

• You’re using premium all-weather blades in excellent condition

However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to let a technician inspect them while replacing your windshield.

What We Recommend

At Affordable Auto Glass, we recommend replacing your wiper blades if:

• Your current blades are more than 6 months old

• You notice streaks, skipping, or squeaking

• You’re already replacing your windshield due to visible damage or aging

It’s a simple upgrade that protects your new investment—and ensures optimal visibility through every season in Wisconsin’s unpredictable weather.

Serving Drivers Across Southeast Wisconsin

We proudly serve customers in:

• Milwaukee

• Waukesha

• Lake Country

• Jefferson County…with mobile service and optional wiper replacement upon request.

Ready to Replace Your Windshield (and Maybe the Wipers Too)?

📞 Call 262-646-5769 Affordable Auto Glass to schedule your mobile windshield replacement and ask about replacing your wiper blades during the same visit. Request a free quote online and drive with confidence, clarity, and safety, rain or shine.