Joseph Weaver If you’re a 2017 Subaru Legacy owner, you’re likely committed to keeping your vehicle in top condition. One way to do this is by maintaining your wiper blades. After all, clear visibility while driving is crucial for your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. But with so many wiper blade sizes and types available, it can be challenging to know which ones are right for your Legacy. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and maintaining wiper blades for your 2017 Subaru Legacy.
Why choosing the right wiper blades is crucial?
Wiper blades are essential for maintaining visibility while driving in rainy or snowy conditions. They help clear water, snow, and ice off your windshield, ensuring that you can see the road ahead. The wrong size of wiper blades or damaged ones can result in poor visibility, which can be hazardous, especially in inclement weather. Therefore, choosing the right size wiper blades and maintaining them is crucial for safe driving.
Choosing the right size wiper blades for your 2017 Subaru Legacy
The 2017 Subaru Legacy requires wiper blades of different sizes for the driver and passenger sides. The driver side wiper blade is 26 inches, while the passenger side blade is an inch shorter, measuring 16 inches. It’s essential to ensure that you purchase the right size blades to avoid issues with installation and visibility.
Manufacturers of wiper blades design their products for specific car models, making it easy to find the right wiper blades for your 2017 Subaru Legacy. You’ll need to consider the make, model, and year of your car when purchasing wiper blades. Some manufacturers may also require you to provide specific information about your vehicle to ensure you get a precise fit.
Types of wiper blades available
The two most common types of wiper blades are conventional and beam blades. Conventional blades are the most common type and are typically less expensive than beam blades. These blades have a metal frame that supports the rubber blade, making them more prone to snow and ice build-up during the winter months.
Beam blades, also known as flat blades or bracketless blades, are a newer design. They have a sleeker, more aerodynamic shape and are less prone to snow and ice build-up. Beam blades are usually more expensive than conventional blades, but they tend to last longer and provide better visibility.
How to install wiper blades on your 2017 Subaru Legacy
Installing wiper blades on your 2017 Subaru Legacy is a straightforward process that you can do in a few minutes. Here are the steps:
- Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
- Locate the release tab on the wiper blade. Press it to release the blade from the wiper arm.
- Attach the new wiper blade to the arm, ensuring that it clicks into place.
- Lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your wiper blades. If you’re unsure about the installation process, you can always consult your car manual or watch video tutorials online.
Tips for maintaining your wiper blades
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your wiper blades. Here are some tips to help you care for your wiper blades:
- Clean your wiper blades regularly, using a soft cloth and mild detergent. This helps remove any dirt, debris, or grime that may be on the blades.
- Avoid using your wipers on a dry windshield, as this can wear out the blades quickly.
- Check your wiper blades regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or tears. If you notice any damage, replace the blades immediately.
- Don’t remove snow or ice from your windshield using your wiper blades. This can damage the blades and even scratch the windshield.
The importance of purchasing high-quality wiper blades
Investing in high-quality wiper blades can significantly improve your visibility while driving in adverse weather conditions. High-quality blades tend to last longer, offer better performance, and are less likely to streak or chatter. They also have better resistance to wear and tear, ensuring that you get your money’s worth.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any size of wiper blades for my 2017 Subaru Legacy?
A: No. You need to purchase wiper blades of the correct size for your Subaru Legacy. The driver side blade is 26 inches long, while the passenger side blade is 16 inches long.
Q: How often should I replace my wiper blades?
A: It’s recommended that you replace your wiper blades every six months, or at least once a year. However, you should also check your blades for wear and tear regularly and replace them if necessary.
Q: Can I install wiper blades myself?
A: Yes, you can. Installing wiper blades is a straightforward process that you can do in a few minutes. However, if you’re unsure about the installation process, refer to your car manual or watch video tutorials online.
Conclusion
Wiper blades are an essential component of your 2017 Subaru Legacy. Choosing the right size and type of wiper blades can significantly impact your visibility and, by extension, your safety. Fortunately, finding the right size blades and installing them is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. Be sure to maintain your wiper blades by cleaning them regularly and checking for signs of wear and tear. Investing in high-quality wiper blades can also make a significant difference in their lifespan and performance. With these tips and tricks, you can ensure clear visibility while driving in adverse weather conditions.
