Windshield wipers: Pay special attention during the rainy season

Between October and February, rainfall is common in Portugal, with the winter months often bringing periods of heavier and more intense rain. Although less frequent, some areas can also experience hail during this period.

These weather conditions can have a significant impact on visibility. For this reason, it is important to check your windshield wipers before a journey and make sure they are in good condition and suitable for wet weather.

If you are driving in Portugal during the rainy season, we also recommend  reading our guide with Tips for driving in the rain.

For periods of heavy rainfall, flat windshield wipers are a popular choice, particularly because of their resistance and greater contact with the windscreen. Their aerodynamic design allows pressure to be distributed more evenly across the glass, helping to provide more effective wiping and improved visibility.

Hybrid wipers are another option to consider. They combine features from different types of wipers and include a reinforced structure designed to provide greater durability and resistance. This construction also helps the wipers maintain consistent contact with the windscreen, even in more challenging weather conditions.

Yes. Conventional windshield wipers can still provide effective performance in rainy conditions, helping to keep the windscreen clean and maintain good visibility. Although they are a more traditional option, they remain a reliable solution.

However, conventional wipers can be more susceptible to wear over time, particularly when exposed to adverse weather conditions and temperature changes. The rubber can gradually lose its flexibility, making it less effective at following the contours of the windscreen.

There are several signs that can indicate that your windshield wipers are worn and need to be replaced.

Look out for streaks or marks left on the glass, unusual noises during operation or irregular movement. Another clear warning sign is when the windscreen is not completely cleared after the wipers have passed over it.

If the wipers start to judder, skip across the glass or fail to move smoothly, this may also indicate that the rubber has deteriorated and that the wipers should be replaced.

Damaged or worn windshield wipers can significantly reduce visibility, particularly during heavy rain. This can make driving more difficult and potentially compromise road safety.

In some cases, damaged wipers can also leave scratches or marks on the windscreen. Regularly checking their condition is therefore a simple but important part of preparing your vehicle for a journey.

As a general rule, windshield wipers should be replaced once a year, although their lifespan can vary depending on how frequently they are used and the weather conditions to which they are exposed.

Replacing them towards the end of summer can be a practical way of preparing your vehicle for the wetter months ahead. This ensures that your wipers are ready to deal with increased rainfall during autumn and winter.

If you are planning to drive in Portugal during these months, checking your wipers should be part of your pre-trip vehicle check.

This means that when you rent a car with us, you can travel with greater peace of mind, knowing that the vehicle has undergone the necessary checks before being made available for your journey.

Despite our regular inspections and maintenance procedures, you may notice that the wwindshield wiperson your rental vehicle are not performing as expected.

If this happens, don't worry. Guerin has a solution designed to provide assistance when you need it.

Report the problem and we will immediately activate Road Assistance. This service is designed to help resolve vehicle-related problems as quickly as possible, with no additional costs, wherever you are, in Portugal or abroad.

Find out more about our premium roadside assistance service.

Don't overlook the condition of your windshield wipers before setting off. If you notice streaks, unusual noises, juddering or reduced wiping performance, consider replacing them before your journey.

If you are planning to explore Portugal by car this autumn or winter, taking a few minutes to check your vehicle can make a significant difference to your visibility, comfort and safety on the road.

And if you choose to travel with a Guerin rental car, you can enjoy your journey with the peace of mind that comes from driving a vehicle that has been regularly checked and maintained.