I see a lot of cars with the wiper blades popped up in parking lots everywhere in the Quad Cities.

I used to think, 'Hmm, genius. That's a great way to keep the blades from being stuck to the windshield when it's this cold and snowy.'

Turns out, that might not be such a great idea. According to the Farmer's Almanac, here are two schools of thought.

US 104.9 logo
Get our free mobile app

Propping Wipers Up:

  • Prevents damage to the wiper motor, should you turn on the ignition and have accidentally left the wipers on (and they’re frozen to the windshield).
  • Prevents damaging the rubber, when you have to chisel them away from the windshield.
  • Makes clearing away snow and ice from the windshield easier.

Leaving Wipers Down:

  • Prevents damaging the springs inside the blade arm.
  • Discourages vandalism.
  • Frozen rearview mirror and car wiper with icicles
    zlikovec
    loading...

    I just bought new wiper blades for my car and the wiper manufacturers recommend lifting the wiper blades up before it gets icy, to protect the rubber blade, and the American Automobile Association (AAA) claims that leaving wipers up could weaken the springs, but keep in mind if you choose to leave them down, it’s important to give your car enough time to warm up; a powerful defroster should let those frozen blades loosen from the windshield.

    Which way do you choose to leave your wipers when it's cold, snowy, or freezing in the Quad Cities?

    Safety Tips For Surviving the Quad Cities Cold Temps

    Top 10 Highest-Rated Restaurants In Davenport According To Yelp

    To determine the top 10 highest-rated restaurants in Davenport, we turn to Yelp. Yelp tells us exactly which restaurants in Davenport people think are the best. If you're looking for the best places to eat in Davenport according to ratings and reviews from people in the Quad Cities, this is the list for you.

    More From US 104.9