| Best Choice |
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Goodyear Hybrid Wiper Blade | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
Bosch Clear Advantage Windshield Wiper Blade | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
Bosch Aerotwin Windshield Wiper Blade | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
- 1. Goodyear Hybrid Wiper Blade
- 2. Bosch Clear Advantage Windshield Wiper Blade
- 3. Bosch Aerotwin Windshield Wiper Blade
- 4. Trico Exact Fit Rear Wiper Blade
- 5. Ablewipe Hybrid Windshield Wiper Blades
- 6. ANCO Winter Extreme Beam
- 7. Rain-X Latitude Water Repellency Premium Beam Wiper Blade
- 8. Michelin High-Performance All-Season Wiper Blade
- 9. Rain-X Expert Fit Hybrid Windshield Wiper Blade
- 10. Michelin Endurance XT Advanced Silicone Wiper Blade
By: Heather Fishel
When was the last time you thought about your car’s windshield wipers? They might be a small component of your vehicle, but they make a huge difference when you need them. Unfortunately, most of us keep our windshield wipers out of sight and out of mind until we’re caught in a sudden downpour on the road. And if your wipers turn out to be cracked, worn, or nonfunctional when you need them the most, it’s hard to see clearly and drive safely.
Get ahead of the next rainstorm and replace your windshield wipers now. You can upgrade your current wipers with a more durable alternative, or you can replace whining, streaky wipers with brand new ones that work quickly, smoothly, and as they’re supposed to. Wondering which windshield wipers are the right ones in terms of effectiveness, quality, and longevity? Check out our picks for the best windshield wipers available on the market today.
The Best Windshield Wipers
With Goodyear, you know you’re getting a high-quality product, and its hybrid wiper blades are just that. These wipers feature a sleek and modern design that wipes away water, dirt, snow, and debris easily and quickly. The hybrid blade is built to be aerodynamic, so the blade moves more effectively without halting or getting caught on the glass.
This blade is built with a natural rubber squeegee that not only soaks up water but clears it from the windscreen with ease. Plus, it’s streak-free and minimizes friction for a longer-lasting windshield wiper. It’s a little large, but not necessarily heavy; you may be able to see more of them from the driver’s seat. You may find that smaller chunks of road debris can get stuck under the blade. You can easily clean them out with a rag and water.
- Hybrid design
- Aerodynamically built
- Natural rubber squeegee
- Brand Goodyear
- Model 770-24
- Weight 8 ounces
Easy installation
Clears screen without streaks
Smooth operation
Large and visible
Small bits of dirt may get stuck beneath the rubber
Bosch tops our list again with its Advantage Windshield Wiper Blade. This blade is designed to reduce friction with its graphite-treated natural rubber edge. The material clings to the curvature of your vehicle’s windscreen to remove unwanted water or debris. Installation is easy as well, as it features a universal adaptor that attaches to either a pin, hook or clamp lock.
One of the top features of the Advantage wiper is its aerodynamic wind spoiler designed to improve airflow. Like a car’s spoiler, this smaller version creates a downforce to prevent the blade from lifting off the glass. This also allows the blade to perform more quickly and efficiently. However, they are a bit on the slim side and may not reach every inch of larger windscreens.
- Noise and friction resistant
- Aerodynamic construction
- Spoiler provides downforce
- Brand Bosch
- Weight 2.4 ounces
Clears windscreen easily and quickly
Long-lasting and durable
Slim design
May not cover larger windscreens
Bosch designs high-quality parts and components for vehicles, and its brand of windshield wipers is no different. As our premium choice, these wipers are built strictly with quality in mind. While the instructions can be difficult to understand, they are still easy to install thanks to an attachment adaptor that is designed for your exact vehicle. However, finding the correct size can be difficult if you use Amazon’s size chart. Consider using your VIN number to look up the correct size instead.
Each blade is designed with dual-precision and tensioned steel springs for a more durable feel and improved lifespan. This also enhances their performance at both high and low speeds and ensures they cover and contact the entire windscreen easily and effectively. They work great in all types of inconvenient weather and don’t judder, jostle, or squeak while operating.
- Come with an attachment adaptor
- Designed with dual-precision and tensioned springs
- Brand Bosch
- Weight .64 ounces
Lightweight
Durable
Long-lasting
The sizing chart can be a hassle; use your VIN number instead
Instructions can be difficult to understand
We can’t leave out vehicles that have a windshield wiper on the rear windows. This easy-to-replace wiper blade from Trico installs without issue. It features a finely crafted natural rubber that clears the windshield of water droplets and debris without a problem. The rubber also withstands heat and cold quite well and can last through both winter and summer.
The design also makes it lightweight yet durable. You won’t get any chattering or noise with this small and powerful little wiper. However, you may be left with some water streaks. Another benefit is that they are inexpensive, so you can stock up if you have multiple vehicles or want to save a few for a rainy day. One issue you may find is it may not fit all vehicles properly. For instance, it may have issues reaching the entire screen of a Sienna.
- Rear windscreen wiper
- Easy and hassle-free installation
- Brand Trico
- Weight 4 ounces
Small yet powerful
Lasts through heat and cold
May not fit all certain vehicles properly
Can cause streaking
This windshield wiper features a hybrid-style blade design that is tough and can last through several heavy downpours and storms. Its construction helps to reduce drag on the windscreen and the wipers don’t jump or skip over any part of the glass. The rubber material clings to the surface and provides your vehicle with up to 180 degrees of motion.
The blades are wear- and corrosion-resistant and won’t slow down in high temperatures. Plus, their robust design is capable of performing well no matter what speed setting you have them on. Some issues you may notice are they are a little more expensive than other brands and they are large and cumbersome-looking.
- Wear- and corrosion-resistant
- 180 degrees of motion
- Brand Ablewipe
- Weight 8 ounces
Strong and durable rubber material
Robust and handle well under pressure
Expensive
Large and cumbersome-looking
As our only winter windshield wiper pick is capable of working in cold temperatures without an issue. Each wiper is built with an arctic armor hydrophobic shield that prevents ice from building up within the blade. Each end is also reinforced with a metal cap to strengthen and protect the rubber from being damaged.
The wipers also feature a honeycomb spoiler design that helps them to grab the windscreen tightly and securely. This also makes them more flexible, durable, and lightweight. However, keep in mind that every item has its breaking point in frigid temperatures. Below-freezing temperatures may weaken parts of the wiper, and they aren’t particularly long-lasting.
- Winter wiper blades
- Covered frames
- Beam style
- Brand ANCO
- Weight 6.4 ounces
Flexible, durable, and lightweight
Lasts through heat and cold
Below-freezing temperatures may weaken parts of the wiper
May not last that long
If you’re looking for a pair of windshield wipers that’ll go above and beyond simply clearing your field of view, you’ll love the Rain-X Latitude Water Repellency Premium Beam Wiper Blade. This product does two jobs in one as it sweeps across your windshield: it clears like a traditional wiper blade and repels rainwater by applying a water repellent coating.
These Rain-X wiper blades are innovative and smarter than most on the market today. The water repellent coating they apply on your windshield helps any water that hits it bead up and roll away, making your wipers even more effective. With all-weather performance thanks to their synthetic blend of rubber, the wiper blade can survive even the most extreme weather, giving you long-term durability whether you face frequent rain, harsh sunlight or winter ice. And with the ability to fit 96 percent of all vehicles on the market, you can easily turn to this wiper blade as a potential replacement for your car, truck, or SUV.
- 2-in-1 wiper blade and rain repellent tool
- Works to clear and repel water away from your windshield
- Include a universal adapter that works with 96 percent of all vehicles
- Brand RainX
- Model 5079279-2
- Weight N/A
Universal adapter allows you to use them with just about any vehicle.
Hassle-free installation makes these wipers easy to install and remove.
Improves your visibility thanks to the patented Rain-X water repellent coating.
May not fit all vehicles’ wiper attachments.
Some vehicles may require revised installation and adjustment to achieve a secure fit.
Designed to deliver a clear view of whatever you’re facing on the road, the Michelin High-Performance All-Season Wiper Blade is streak-free — and, even better, quiet. It is made extra effective and nicely durable thanks to its strong rubber blade and heavy-duty steel frame. The frame is stable and secure, and the rubber is compression-molded, so it glides smoothly, without streaks, sticking, or screeching across your windshield. It’s even able to resist corrosion over time because of its stainless steel metal. Tested to last at least 750,000 individual wipes, this blade can survive long rainy seasons, thick snow, mud, strong sleet, and even the heat of summer’s sunlight.
And when it comes to installation, Michelin’s patented EZ Lok connector system allows you to get the blade in place in just minutes. With different sizes for different vehicles, it’ll be a good fit for many makes and models.
- Patented EZ Lok connector system makes installation simple
- Constructed out of strong, flexible rubber
- Tested to withstand 750,000 wipes
- Brand Michelin
- Model 2222
- Weight 47 pounds
Built for heavy-duty use and all types of weather, including heat
Features multiple pressure points to stay strong with every movement
Works quietly on rain, snow, sleet, mud, and more
Can degrade and break down over time
Want to replace your current windshield wipers with a new set that meets your vehicle’s OEM quality level? The Rain-X Expert Fit Hybrid Windshield Wiper Blade is a great choice. While this replacement blade meets Rain-X’s great quality standards, it’s also constructed to ensure drivers get OEM-level quality and design for their vehicles. And this blade is made specifically for any vehicles that initially came with hybrid windshield wiper technology.
Each one of these windshield wiper blades is available in multiple sizes to suit different makes and models. They’re made from durable materials, including an extra-tough blade casing that can prevent issues like clogging due to snow and icy buildup. The blade is also aerodynamic, which helps prevent lifting at high speeds and in extra windy conditions. If you’re searching for an equivalent replacement for factory blades, you’ll be pleased by the quality, sizing, and easy installation of this Rain-X option.
- Available in sizes from 16 inches to 28 inches long
- Made to meet or exceed your vehicle’s OEM standards
- Won’t get stuck when facing tough weather conditions
- Brand Rain-X
- Model H-16
- Weight 0.39 pounds
A perfect fit for any vehicle that came with hybrid wiper blades
Incredibly simple installation method
Work in wind, rain, snow, and ice
Wipers don’t last very long beyond a year
Prone to streaking and squeaking as the blade ages
Most windshield wipers aren’t designed to last more than six months to a year — but the Michelin Endurance XT Advanced Silicone Wiper Blade can provide you with a longer lifespan. Made with Michelin’s Advanced Quad Tech technology, each blade features four layers of coated silicone, so you get quiet, durable, and wear-resistant wipers. The silicone makes the blade flexible, and it also helps repel water, so you’re able to see clearly in rain, snow, or icy conditions. The blade will even survive temperatures as cold as -80 degrees and as hot as 195 degrees.
You won’t have to be worried about the wiper blade’s performance since this blade features a frameless curved beam that hugs your windshield. In addition, you’ll love the infinite pressure points it creates as it delivers streak-free wipes with every motion.
- Designed to last two times longer than regular wiper blades
- Comes in assorted sizes to fit different vehicles
- Can survive extreme weather from -80 degrees to 195 degrees Fahrenheit
- Brand Michelin
- Model 10000100
- Weight N/A
Tested to last 2,000,000 wipes
Four layers of silicone offer resiliency and all-weather protection
Streak-free and quiet when in motion
Packaging can be overly complex
Installation can be tricky on some vehicles
Best Windshield Wipers Buying Guide & FAQ
You may think a windshield wiper is just another basic tool for your vehicle, but there is more to them than that. They keep your windscreen clean and clear of rain, sleet, and dust, so they need to be strong and durable. Flimsy wipers just won’t cut it; they will wear down quickly. We’ve put together a guide to help you choose a set of windshield wipers suited for your car.
Why Do You Need Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers are an absolute must-have on every vehicle. After all, there’s a reason cars, trucks, and SUVs come equipped with factory-made wipers. When you’re caught in a slight drizzle or a severe downpour, your wipers are the only option for clearing your windshield and restoring your visibility. They’re a crucial tool in keeping you safe and able to see in traffic, on empty stretches of road, and in all weather conditions.
You need windshield wipers to clear away deluges of rain, brush away snow, and generally keep your field of view as clear as can be. But it isn’t just rough weather that wipers can help with. They’re also a key ally when your windshield is dirty, and your visibility isn’t crystal clear. You can rely on your wipers to get rid of dirt, dust, and even splatters that can potentially obscure your vision while behind the wheel.
Additionally, a good pair of wiper blades will keep your windshield free of streaks and scratches to ensure that you’re getting the visibility you need without new obstructions or annoyances being created in the process.
Different Types of Windshield Wipers
There is a wide range of wiper blades available, depending on what they are used for, how they are mounted on the vehicle, and the frame style of the windshield wiper blade. They also come in different sizes, depending on the size and fit of your vehicle. Generally speaking, when choosing wipers for your car, you’ll first look for either single mount or double mount. Wiper arms come in three styles, either conventional, flat, or hybrid. Depending on the weather conditions in your area, you’ll want to choose the type of windshield wiper blades that are best suited to your conditions.
Single Mount versus Double Mount Windshield Wiper Blades
A single mount wiper blade will be an extra long blade and will typically be seen on trucks, buses, and larger vehicles. This style of wiper blades comes in many different lengths, ranging from 28 inches to 32 inches, depending on the size of the windshield. They are best suited for vehicles that can hold the type of large motor mount required to generate the power to move one large blade (and any displaced water).
On our list today, however, we have talked about dual-mounted types of wiper blades. Dual mounted blades are by far the most common that we see on passenger vehicles and are likely the type of windshield wiper blades that you will need for your car.
Beam Style Wiper Blades
A beam style wiper is designed with one continuous or dual rubber piece. This allows it to better conform to the curve of your windshield. The downside is that it costs more than a standard wiper; however, it tends to last much longer. Plus, the beam blade works more efficiently and is more reliable when handling larger amounts of water.
Conventional, Flat, or Hybrid Style Wiper Blades
There are three styles of windscreen wipers, conventional, flat, and hybrid. As the name implies, convention wiper blades were the original style wipers that most cars were fitted with.
Conventional Style Wiper Blades
This is the most common type of windshield wiper and it is the standard on most cars, trucks, and SUVs. A conventional wiper features a simple rubber blade attached to a metal frame, and a set will last around six months.
Conventional blades typically have between four to eight pressure points to keep it snug against the windscreen. They’re known for their high-performance design and even pressure, thanks to the spring action built into the design. They are especially useful for curved windshields.
Flat Style Wiper Blades
Flat style wipers came afterward, bringing a modern design that helps keep the blades closer to the windshield. The design uses airflow to push the wipers against the windscreen, creating pressure points along the entire blades and significantly reducing wind noise.
Hybrid Wiper Blade
As you can imagine, hybrid blades are a combination of conventional and flat blades. They offer the sleek design that flat blades are known for and match the reliable performance of conventional blades. Because of the hybrid design, they not only perform as well as both the conventional and flat blades, but they also have a lot less wind noise than either of its predecessors.
Season Windshield Wiper Blades
Windshield wiper blades are a very important safety feature that is legally required in most states. They also help to make it easier to drive in the rain and snow, which are two weather conditions that should not be underestimated. Ice and snow are especially dangerous for driving as it can lead to snow and ice buildup on your windshield, posing a hazard to both you and other drivers on the road.
In fact, over 500,000 accidents occur each year during rainy conditions, with another 210,000 occurring in snow and sleet. While those numbers may sound high, they would, undoubtedly, be higher still without windshield wipers.
Additionally, there are blades suited for different kinds of weather — summer, winter, and all-weather. In this article, we’ve been looking at winter wipers, and now we’ll take a look at some of the key features to expect to see on this type right below.
What to Look for When Buying
Which qualities make a great windshield wiper blade? You need to look for markers of quality, longevity, and all-weather performance. A well-rounded and well-made wiper blade will provide durability and keep your windshield as clear as it can be. Here’s what you need to pick out the perfect pair.
Blade Material
If there’s one quality of a windshield wiper blade that matters above all others, it’s the blade material. Some blades are too firm and squeak or whine while they work; others are too soft and flexible to clear debris off your windshield. You want a combination of toughness and efficient wiping — which is why rubber and silicone are the top materials to look for.
Rubber and silicone are pretty durable, though rubber tends to crack and dry out when exposed to heat. Both of these materials are great for squeegeeing away water, snow, and other messes. If you live somewhere with frequent sun and heat, silicone will offer better longevity.
Size
You have to consider size when you’re shopping for wiper blades. Blades come in different lengths to suit different vehicles, and you need to replace your current blades with the appropriate length. If you don’t, your windshield wipers won’t be able to work correctly. Blades that are too short won’t clear your whole windshield, which can limit your ability to see. Blades that are too long can malfunction and cause problems while your wipers are needed. Make sure to check the sizing and available lengths before buying.
Installation Method
In addition to the length of your wiper blades, you’ll also want to consider the installation method. Some wiper blades are more customized and fit only specific makes and models. Others are more universal, offering a convenient method that’s secure and able to work with different attachment styles.
Windshield wipers can offer pin, hooked arm, or clamp-style attachment options. You’ll want to take a look at your current wiper blades (and your vehicle’s owner’s manual) to determine which style of blade you’ll need for a replacement. Or, you can assess universal-style installation options that’ll work with many different makes and models.
Frame
The frame of a windshield wiper blade is what holds everything together. Typically, blades come in one of two materials: rubber or steel. Rubber can be tough and hardy, but it can also be prone to breaking down and cracking in hot temperatures. Steel is even more durable, and it can extend the lifespan of the wiper blades you choose.
In addition to the frame material, wiper blade frames can also be made in an open or covered design. Open blades can be more aerodynamic and allow snow, rain, and other debris to run off more easily. A covered blade is heavier and bulkier, but they keep dirt, debris, and water out of the wiper mechanisms. If you live in a region that’s prone to ice and snow, this might be important; open frames can lead to frozen wipers.
Tips for Buying and Using Windshield Wipers
Knowing how to install and take care of your windshield wipers once you have them is important. Here are a few tips to help you understand the ins and outs of wiper blades.
Tips
- For smoother operation, consider a strong and sturdy windshield wiper that doesn’t feel flimsy or wobbly.
- Study the installation guide to make sure you attach the windshield wipers properly and effectively.
- Look for ones that feature a universal clamp, pin, or hooked-arm attachment to connect to your vehicle for easier installation.
- Replace your wiper blades every six to 12 months, depending on the weather and the durability of the wipers.
How to Replace Windshield Wiper Blades
Windshield wiper blades are a must-have safety feature to any vehicle. Unfortunately, though, they don’t last forever. In fact, cheaper models may have to be replaced every six months, while sturdier and higher-quality wipers may last for a year, even a year and a half. Why can’t wipers last longer, you may ask? For one, the rubber blade is degradable so it becomes less effective over time – the longer you use it, the less effective it is. Also, rubber no matter how high-quality – is not immune to sun exposure, rain, ice and snow, and generally extreme weather conditions. Still, some wipers may last up to two years, especially the premium all-season types. So, how can you tell that you need to replace your wipers? They’ll show at least some of the following symptoms:
- Squeaking – undoubtedly the easiest (and most annoying!) sign that the wipers need to be replaced. Once the rubber of the blade becomes worn out, the dreaded squeaking begins.
- Streaking water – when the rubber hardens due to UV exposure, it will typically also crack in certain places, losing some of its ability to quietly and evenly move across the windscreen. As a result, you’ll see bands of water remain on your windshield after each wipe.
- Smearing – the best windshield wiper has sharp edges that allow it to evenly and smoothly remove any debris, water, and dirt. However, even the best of the best models lose their sharpness over time due to wear and tear, causing water to smear across the windshield, leaving behind a milky film and resulting in impaired visibility.
- Skipping and chattering: aside from squeaking, worn blades will also chatter and skip over the screen, jumping over certain spots and leaving the screen unevenly clean or downright smudgy and dirty.
If your wipers exhibit some of these symptoms, it’s definitely time to buy new ones. But once you get them, how do you replace them? While you can always get them done at a shop, there’s no reason to spend an extra $10-$20 if you have some spare time as you can easily do this task yourself. Follow our instructions, and you’ll replace your old wipers in a matter of a few minutes.
Remove the Old Wipers
First things first, you’ll have to remove the old wipers to make a place for the new ones. Some jiggling may be required, depending on the model. Basically, you’ll need to pull the entire assembly up so that the wipers remain vertical. However, before you start pulling, take an old towel and place it over the screen, below the wipers, to prevent damage to the windshield in case the arm smacks on it. Now take the wiper and lift it while turning the blade perpendicular to the arm (the hinge should be visible). Find the release tab and press it (there should be an audible snap). Then, pull the wiper down, towards the vehicle. Do note that not all wipers have a release tab; if yours don’t have it, just turn the blade perpendicular and pull it down. At this point, the blade and the arm should be separated, which means that you should be able to remove the blade through one of the holes located on it. When you remove the blade, the wiper arm will be unprotected, and since this is basically bare metal, you’ll want to prevent it from falling back on your windshield. This is where that old towel will come in handy.
Install the New Blades
Now that the old blades are removed, it’s time for the fun part – attaching the new ones. Don’t worry, this part is even easier! You’ll want to start by taking the new wiper out of its packaging and inserting its arm through the appropriate slot. Then, turn it perpendicular to the wiper and pull it gently up to lock it in. You should hear or at least feel a “click” once it’s snapped in – this is your sign that you installed it properly. Finally, lower the arm and repeat the process on the other wiper, and you’re finished!
Testing
Once you’ve installed the new wipers, it’s time to test them out with windshield wiper fluid. Simply squirt some fluid on your screen and test out the new blades. If all is well, they should do a fantastic job. You should definitely notice a huge difference in their performance!
Don’t forget to visually inspect the new wipers after 6 to 12 months – if they start showing signs of damage, purchase new ones on time!
Top Brands of Windshield Wiper Blades
While there are many excellent wiper blade brands available on the market today, we can guarantee that the products featured on our top list are some of the best ones out there. However, they certainly are not the only ones. If you’d like to check out some extra wipers for your car, here are three more models we also like.
Rain X Latitude
If you’re looking for the best windshield wiper for rain, snow and ice conditions, you may want to check out Rain X Latitude wipers. With a super-curved design, these contour to the windshield like no other model, providing maximum pressure along the full length of the blade. They’re perfect for rain and snow due to their graphite coated blended rubber blade. This being said, they’re not good for freezing weather as they can get a little stiff. Another con is the price – they’re some of the priciest wipers out there. On the plus side, they have a pre-installed universal adapter, so they install in literally a couple of minutes.
Bosch Icon
With a patented beam design, Bosch Icon blades perform well in all weather conditions, including rain and snow. They come with a unique asymmetrical and flexible spoiler design that ensures great performance at high speed. Easy installation is also guaranteed with this model — Bosch use their expertise from original equipment manufacturing when designing their blades, so you can say goodbye to adapters and extra tools when installing them. The Icon wiper is not without its faults though — while it can deal with light snow, we wouldn’t recommend it for heavy snowfall or icy conditions.
PIAA Super Silicone Wiper
Made of high-quality silicone rubber, this wiper blade boasts excellent resistance to adverse weather conditions. As some of you may know, silicone has some advantages over rubber: it’s more durable regardless of weather conditions, and the blades maintain a sharp edge for longer. In practical terms, this means that this particular model offers better resistance to all environments, low and high temperatures included. Another thing we like about this model — it’s really quiet. Overall, a fantastic choice if you can afford it; if you’re on a tighter budget, we recommend going for a regular rubber style wiper instead.
Windshield Wiper Size
One of the most important things to consider when shopping for new windshield wipers is their size. Before you even start looking at models, check out your manufacturer’s recommended size of wipers, which are specific to that make, model, and year. It’s important to get the correct sized ones for your vehicle because if you choose a model that’s too small or too big for your screen, you’ll end up with either a dirty windshield or a damaged wiper motor. Basically, if the wiper blades are too long for your windshield, the wipers will bump into each other, causing damage either to the blades or to the wiper motor. On the other hand, if they’re too small for your screen, they won’t be able to get the entire windshield cleared, resulting in a dirty screen and impaired visibility.
Here’s how you can choose blades of the correct size for your vehicle:
- Check out the owner’s manual
- Measure the wipers currently installed on your car
- Look up the correct size online
- Visit any auto parts shop and use their size finder
Do keep in mind that the blades installed on the driver’s seat are always at least slightly different in size as compared to the ones attached to the passenger seat. While this may seem strange to new drivers, it’s perfectly logical if you think about it – the wipers need to be able to work in tandem when activated which they would be unable to do if they were the same size as they would keep colliding. Another thing to keep in mind – the rear window blade is usually smaller than the ones on the windshield. In any case, following your car’s manufacturer’s recommendations for replacing auto parts is always a good idea.
Windshield Wipers FAQ:
Check the vehicle’s owner’s manual; it will detail the exact make and model wiper you need.
You can skip buying new windshield wipers altogether if you absolutely need to. You may just need to replace the rubber part, and you can purchase refills to replace the worn-out material.
This will depend on the style and material construction of the wiper. The average lifespan of a normal wiper is around six months. However, hybrid or beam style wipers can last longer and may even make it through a year of service.
Like we said above, installation is very simple and will work straight out the box most times. If you need a little extra help with the installation process, then you can follow our quick and easy windshield wiper installation guide. Otherwise, most wiper blades come with instructions.
Keeping your wiper blades clean helps improve the performance and maintain even pressure on the windshield. To clean the blades, try the following. Regularly wash your car and windshield to remove dust and debris. Using a soft damp cloth, gently wipe down each blade. If you live in an area with snow or ice, either cover your windshield at night to prevent freezing or lift your blades so that they are off the glass during the night. Do not try to clean them if they are frozen, instead, use your defroster to warm the blades so that they detach from the glass safely.
Not all windshield wiper blades are sold in pairs, though most makes and models will have the option of buying a 2-pack. This is because sometimes, for whatever reason, one blade may become damaged or break down due to regular wear and tear while the other remains reasonably intact. This is something to keep in mind as you’re shopping for wipers for your car.
Yes, windshield wipers are generally easy to install. Most makes and models will come with detailed instructions for a quick and easy installation process. Make sure to check the instructions before attempting to install new blades on your vehicle.
Windscreen wipers are not supposed to freeze, although they sometimes do in ice and snow. If your windshield wiper becomes frozen, do not pour water over it as this can crack your windshield. Instead, turn your vehicle on and set the defroster to high on the warmest temperature. Allow the wiper arms to defrost naturally until you can gently and safely pull each one off of the windshield without breaking it. Once both your windshield and the wiper arms are defrosted, use a dry towel to wipe down the blades.
Yes, all vehicles must come equipped with windshield wipers, though not every vehicle requires a rear wiper. Luckily, most cars will come with pre-installed wipers, so you likely won’t have to worry about whether or not you should install wipers yourself.
While there are a lot of different sizes of blades, most makes and models of vehicles have a recommended wiper blade size. So there is no guesswork in choosing a size that will fit your vehicle. To find the exact fit that you need, you can either look at the vehicle’s owner’s manual, look online for a “blade size finder,” or even measure the current blades on your vehicle.
A windshield wiper blade generally lasts anywhere from six months to 12 months, depending on the material used in the blade and the weather conditions where you live. Rubber naturally breaks down over time with natural wear and tear. Ice and snow, extreme heat and sunshine, and even the fluid you use to clean your windshield can all damage the silicone rubber blades over time. If your wipers become squeaky, leave streaks, or bounces as it moves across the glass, then it’s time to change your wipers. If you want your blades to last longer, then keep them protected from the natural elements as much as possible.
Wiper blades don’t necessarily expire, but most should be replaced every six months to 12 months. Carefully read the packaging that comes with your wiper blades to know when to expect to change your blades again.
There are many reasons why your windshield wiper blades may not be working properly. Windshield wipers sometimes vibrate when airflow comes beneath the blades, lifting them up while the vehicle is in motion. Another reason they could be making noise is because they are dried out and damaged by the weather. In either case, check to see if your blades fit properly or if they are damaged and need replacing.
It depends on your needs as a driver. Some wiper blades can last up to 500,000 cycles, while others last only 300,000 cycles. So some people like the more expensive version simply because they last longer. It also depends on what kind of weather conditions you’re in. If you live in an area with extreme heat and sunshine, or a place with lots of snow and ice, then it might be worth investing in windshield wiper blades that can endure those conditions.
The Bosch Icon, number four on our list, is one of the best and longest-lasting blades on the market at the moment. If you want to shop around for other options, then look for windshield wiper blades that are premium all-season blades and last for 500,000 or more cycles.
Yup, so good that Michelin made it on our list of best winter wiper blades twice.
Most quality blades will be quiet straight out of the box. Wiper blades become noisy after normal wear and tear or when they do not fit properly. Bosch blades, the Anco 31 series and the TRICO exact fit are some of the best windshield wipers on the market right now.
If you purchase your wiper blade from AutoZone, then they will likely install them for you for free. Most windshield wipers, however, are easy to install and can be done within a matter of minutes right at home.
Safelite wipers did not make it to our list of best windshield wipers and have poor reviews all over the internet, so we don’t recommend them when purchasing wiper blades for your car.
Yes, silicone rubber windshield wiper blades tend to last longer and fare better in poor weather conditions than regular rubber blades. The silicone layer protects the rubber blade, making it more resistant to UV rays, heat, and cold. They also offer more water repellency than regular rubber blades.
The manufacturers recommend checking your Bosch blades every six months, though they can potentially last longer than that depending on the area you live in.
Our Top Pick
They are one of the most important accessories in your vehicle. You need a long-lasting and sturdy pair, and the Goodyear Wiper Blades are an excellent choice. They are a high-quality pair of hybrid wiper blades designed to be tough and durable. Their aerodynamic design helps them hug the curvature of the windscreen to get a better and deeper clean that is streak-free. If you need one of the best wiper blades on the market to clean your windshield more effectively, consider these as your next choice.
Sources:
- Replacing Windshield Wipers – Cars.com
- How to Change Your Windshield Wipers – Instructables
- Windshield Wipers – Wikipedia
