How To Protect Your Windshield Wipers In Winter Weather

It's something you see every year when a winter storm hits: many people lift their windshield wipers to keep them from freezing to the glass. While it may seem like a smart move, auto experts say this common habit can actually cause more problems than it solves.

One of the biggest risks is wind damage. During winter storms, strong gusts can easily grab raised wipers and slam them back down onto the windshield. This can crack the glass or bend the wiper arms. The wind could also just rip them off your vehicle.

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In cold temperatures, metal and plastic parts become more brittle, making them easier to break. A damaged wiper arm may no longer sit flat on the windshield, reducing how well it clears snow and ice.

Raised wipers can also strain the wiper motor. If the arms are bent out of position, the motor has to work harder once the car is turned on. Over time, this can lead to costly repairs that could have been avoided.

Another issue is safety. If wipers are damaged, drivers may have poor visibility during heavy snow or freezing rain. Clear vision is critical during winter driving, and faulty wipers can increase the risk of accidents.

Instead of lifting wipers, experts recommend safer alternatives. Using a windshield cover can prevent ice buildup. Some drivers use their vehicle’s defroster or an ice-melting spray to loosen frozen wipers.

While lifting wipers may seem helpful and have become a habit for some people, keeping them down and protected is often the safer choice during a winter storm.

Sioux Falls To Iceland And Back...Magical Journey!

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Dives Worth a Drive in South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota

Almost every small South Dakota town has a watering hole. It’s where the locals go to kick back a few brews and engage in conversation.

Some of these establishments are located in buildings almost as old as the town itself. There might be a fresh coat of paint on the walls or new vinyl on the booth seats, but the ambiance is still reminiscent of a good ol’ dive.

If you think a "dive" is all about the sketchy clientele, the smell of the Devil’s lettuce, and stale Grain Belt, you’d be wrong. Not every dive has a bad reputation.

What makes a dive, a dive?

A dive has character. Neon beer signs and local memorabilia adorn the walls.

You might find a pool table, dart board, and a few video lottery machines.

The bartender knows the regulars by name and they know what you drink.

Some dives don't even serve food except for bags of chips and pickled eggs that sit in a jar of brine on the bar.

Dives aren't fancy. You might see 70's-style wood panels on the walls and wobbly tables leveled with a folded napkin.

Finally, the bathrooms. The bathrooms in dives are in a class by themselves and could be a whole topic on its own.

There are several small-town dives in our area with friendly faces, cheap booze with a burn, and even really good food! We use the term "dive" in the most affectionate way.

Here are some of the best and why you should go there.

Gallery Credit: Karla Brown