Original equipment wiper blade manufacturer, TRICO, is urging motorists and garages to make sure that wipers are in good condition prior to an NCT test. Common reasons for NCT failure include headlamp aim, tyre tread depth and windscreen wipers not clearing the windscreen effectively.

Trico says that arguably, wiper blades are one of the easiest checks for a technician to make, as the wipers just need to effectively clear water and leave no smears on the driver’s side to pass the test. However, although they are perishable and should be changed every 12 months, it’s often something drivers forget to change before a vehicle test.

There are typical signs that wiper blades need to be replaced:

- Streaking, when the blade doesn’t completely clear the windscreen, leaving streaks of water or debris.

- Chattering, when the blade doesn’t move smoothly across the windscreen.

- Smearing, when the debris or water is smeared across the windscreen, but not removed.

While TRICO still recommends that wiper blades are changed every 12 months regardless of their condition, it’s vital that technicians ensure that the blades are in the best condition when leaving the workshop, as it’s such a crucial safety feature for drivers.

TRICO’s Group Brand & Marketing Manager (Europe), Sam Robinson, said, “Drivers do not rush to a workshop for new wiper blades at the best of times, so, during a pre NCT check, technicians need to be proactive. They are not expensive items and once highlighted of the facts, we’ve found that drivers are usually willing to have them replaced, which is where we step in to provide the premium quality products required.”

Sam adds, “By fitting a pair of our OE quality wiper blades, selected from a wide range of options including conventional, hybrid, beam and rear, technicians and drivers can be assured of their effectiveness and reliability in any situation.”