New Honda Owners: Wrong Wiper Lift Can Scratch Your Hood

As winter arrives, many drivers habitually lift their windshield wipers to prevent them from freezing to the glass—but this common practice might be quietly damaging your new car. Matt, a Honda sales representative, recently highlighted in a short video that lifting the wipers directly from their normal position on newer Honda models (such as the Civic) can cause them to scrape against the hood due to their arced motion, leading to visible scratches over time. He recommends using the “maintenance mode” instead: after turning off the engine, pull the wiper control stalk upward, and the wiper arms will automatically move to a safe position where they won’t touch the hood when lifted. This simple trick effectively prevents damage while also keeping wipers from freezing to the windshield. Experts also emphasize that winter vehicle maintenance isn’t just about convenience—it’s critical for driving safety. Other important measures include checking floor mats and regularly washing the car to prevent rust.