International Check Your Wipers Day

The International Check Your Wipers Day is observed every year on November 16, a special day to encourage drivers to inspect their windshield wipers for safety and visibility.

History of International Check Your Wipers Day

The concept began with Michelin, which introduced the observance to remind North American drivers to check their windshield wipers. Over time the initiative expanded beyond the U.S., reaching Canada and Europe, underlining the global importance of clear visibility on the road.

Why is International Check Your Wipers Day important?

This observance is important because many drivers underestimate how much of a difference functioning wipers make in poor weather conditions—rain, sleet, snow or sleet can all obscure visibility. By raising awareness, the day helps reduce risk and promote road safety.
It also highlights that simple vehicle maintenance tasks—like replacing wiper blades—can have a large impact on safety outcomes, not only for drivers but for passengers, other road-users and pedestrians.

Here are five simple reminders:

• Check your wiper blades for cracks, splits or streaking.
• Replace blades if they don’t clear the windshield cleanly.
• Ensure your windshield washer fluid is topped up and nozzles are clear.
• Think ahead to seasonal weather changes and plan your maintenance.
• Share the reminder with friends or family who drive.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) International Check Your Wipers Day

Take a few minutes on this day to pull your car into a well-lit area, activate the wipers and washer fluid, and watch how well the blades clear the windshield. If they chatter, leave streaks, or skip areas, scheduling a blade replacement is wise. Emotionally, this day is about showing care—care for your own safety, and care for the safety of others on the road.
You might make it a small community moment—encourage your household or workplace to join in the check, share a photo of worn wipers replaced, or post a short reminder on social media to spark broader awareness.

Here are five simple ways to observe:

• Activate your wipers and washer to test their performance.
• Replace worn or noisy wiper blades before bad weather hits.
• Check that washer fluid is filled and jets are aimed properly.
• Offer to inspect a friend’s or family member’s wipers.
• Post a reminder or photo with a message “checked my wipers today” to spread awareness.

International Check Your Wipers Day Dates Table