Wiper Blades & Lights: See and Be Seen in Alabama Weather
Birmingham drivers face pop‑up thunderstorms, pollen film, night glare, and highway spray on I‑65. Good wiper blades and fluid can be the difference between stopping safely and a close call.
Signs Your Wipers Are Done
- Streaking or hazy film even on a clean windshield
- Chatter or skipping across the glass
- Fraying or cracks in the rubber edge
- Uneven wipe pattern or missed patches
Rule of thumb: Replace wiper blades every 6–12 months (sooner after pollen season or intense summer sun).

Choosing the Right Blade
- Conventional: Budget‑friendly, metal frame, decent in mild weather.
- Beam (one‑piece): Contours to curved windshields; best all‑weather performance.
- Hybrid: Beam aerodynamics + robust external frame.
Our team measures correct sizes per side and checks arm tension so the new blades work like they should.
Washer Fluid Matters (More Than You Think)
- Bug & pollen removers help in spring/summer.
- De‑icer blends help on frosty mornings (yes, even in Alabama cold snaps).
- We also aim and unclog nozzles so spray hits the glass—not your roof.
Quick Visibility Checklist
- Clean inside/out glass (nicotine/pollen films cause glare).
- Restore coating on the windshield (repellents help sheet off rain).
- Inspect wiper motor, linkage, and fuses if the wipers move slowly or not at all.
Our Wiper & Visibility Service
- Match OEM or premium beam/hybrid blades by size
- Inspect/adjust arm tension and park position
- Refill proper washer fluid; aim/clean nozzles
- Check windshield condition; recommend glass care or replacement if needed

Why It’s Urgent in Birmingham
Heavy rain on Highway 280 and spray from trucks can black‑out visibility in seconds. Fresh wipers and clean fluid keep your reaction time sharp.
Why Choose Auto Repair 74
- Same‑day wiper and washer service
- 44‑Point Digital Inspection (photos/notes)
- 12‑month / 12,000‑mile warranty on qualifying services
- Friendly, fast, and local—Birmingham, AL
FAQs
Can I mix washer fluids?
It’s better to drain and refill—mixing can reduce performance or leave streaks.
Beam vs. hybrid—what’s right for me?
Beam blades excel in heavy rain and curved glass; hybrids are a great all‑around upgrade.