P 3500 V8-6.5L DSL Turbo VIN F (1998)
Wiper Blade: Technical Service Bulletins
Glass/Body - Windshield Wiper Performance
INFORMATION
Bulletin No.: 06-08-43-003C
Date: February 21, 2011
Subject: Windshield Wiper Performance, Cleaning Instructions and Maintenance
Models:
2012 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (including Saturn)
2010 and Prior HUMMER H2, H3
2010 and Prior Isuzu Medium Duty Trucks
2005-2009 Saab 9-7X
Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to add the 2011 and 2012 model year. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 06-08-43-003B (Section 08 - Body and
Accessories).
Wiper Concerns
Most concerns about windshield wiper performance are the result of dirty wiper blades, damaged wiper blades, or worn out blades that are continuing to
be used beyond their useful life. Depending on environmental conditions, wiper blades can have dramatic differences in lifespan. Here are some tips and
guidelines to maximize wiper performance to avoid damage to the blades, and to avoid unnecessary replacements.
Many wiper blades are being replaced under warranty with reviews showing there is nothing wrong with the returned blades other than a build-up of dirt.
Additionally, advise the customer to review the information in their Owner Manual.
Inspection and Cleaning
Scheduled Maintenance
-
Inspect your wipers rubber blades every 4-6 months or 12,000 km (7,500 mi) for wear, cracking or contamination.
-
Clean the windshield and the rubber wiper blades (using the procedure below) if the blades are not clearing the glass satisfactorily. If this does not
correct the problem, then replace the rubber elements.
Cleaning Procedure
Important
Avoid getting windshield washer fluid on your hands. Wear rubber gloves or avoid direct contact with washer fluid.
Important
Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or petroleum based products to clean wiper blades.
-
Clean the rubber blades using a lint free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. You should see significant
amounts of dirt being removed on the cloth.
-
Be sure to wash the windshield thoroughly when you clean the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap and a buildup of car wash/wax treatments may
additionally cause wiper streaking.
Tip
For a larger scale buildup on the windshield, use a non-abrasive cleaner such as Bon-Ami* (www.faultless.com) cleanser with a wet sponge, being
sure to use plenty of water to avoid scratching the glass. Flush the surface and body panels completely.
Tip
For day-to-day exterior glass cleaning and to maintain a streak free appearance, suggest Vehicle Care Glass Cleaner, P/N 88862560 (in Canada,
992727). This product is an easy to use foaming cleaner that quickly removes dirt and grime from glass surfaces.
Tip
Interior glass should be cleaned with plain, clean water to eliminate any film or haze on the window and help prevent fogging, a major customer
dissatisfier. Refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 03-00-89-006D for more information. The New Vehicle Pre-Delivery Inspection form also
recommends using plain water to clean interior glass.
*"We believe this material to be reliable. There may be additional manufacturers of such material. General Motors does not endorse, indicate any
preference for or assume any responsibility for the products or equipment from these firms or any such items which may be available from other sources.
