how often do the windshield wipers need to be changed?
I usually change my windshield wipers every year just as winter starts because the long hot summer days are hard on them.
I personally replace them around the end of fall, when it starts raining more often, every year, but I live in a area that is hot and dry through all of the spring through mid to late fall. If you live in area that has a long period of hot, I'd replace them before it starts becoming more wet. If you live somewhere where it's not as hot, or rains more often, I'd be replacing them whenever they start to do an inadequate job. Typically, the adverage Wal-Mart blades work just as good as anything else, I reccomend either the Rain-X or the Michelin blades, they seem to work the best, and last a bit longer
If you use cheap aftermarket or factory replacement blades (or inserts), then expect to replace them about once a year when they start leaving streaks. However, if you spend a little more money and buy some silicone blades, they will last MUCH longer than standard rubber blades. Most silicone wiper blades have a 5-year warranty on them, and cost about $20 per blade or less. The cost is about the same or less than OE blades from the dealer, and about the same as 3 years worth of buying aftermarket blades. I have a set on my vehicle that have been there for over 6 years and still work just like brand new. I have to admit I was skeptical when I bought them, but 6 years later it was well worth the money I paid for them. They alse bead water off the windshield (similar to how Rain-X works) with an invisible coat of silicone on the windshield.
