Motorists have been warned they could face fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for driving with faulty windscreen wipers, according to motoring experts. The warning comes from MotorMatch, which highlighted that broken wipers can compromise visibility and lead to serious safety risks.
The experts explained that signs of wear include streaky marks on the windscreen after use, cracks or splitting in the rubber, and squeaking noises when operating the wipers. Ageing wipers may also miss parts of the windscreen, particularly in warm weather when the material softens. MotorMatch recommends replacing wipers every six months to a year for optimal performance.
Drivers with defective wipers could also fail their annual MOT test, meaning the part must be fixed before the vehicle can legally be driven. Under some circumstances, road users may be penalised for driving without a clear view of the road, breaching major driving laws.
BookMyGarage, a car service comparison site, noted that new wipers typically cost between £10 and £30, but advised opting for more expensive blades as they tend to last longer. Drivers are urged to check their vehicle handbook or consult a local garage to find the correct wipers for their car.
