How Do I Pick a Good Wiper Blade?

It may seem that the manufacturers of car accessories have achieved everything when it comes to windshield wipers. Paradoxically, this small element is constantly being improved - and in addition to the standard articulated models, non-articulated wipers are being installed in an increasing number of new cars. We will advise you on how to choose new wiper blades if the old ones do not obey.

Shortly speaking

In difficult weather conditions, worn wipers can turn into a torture. When you notice that inaccurate ones are collecting water, look for new ones. It is worth choosing models whose feathers are made of natural rubber or silicone-graphite with an admixture of polymer, so that they move quietly and gently along the glass - you will find them in the offer of brands such as Bosh and Valeo. You can choose wipers:

• articulated - characteristic for old generation cars,
• articulated with spoiler - with better aerodynamics, suitable for highways
• articulated - flat models perfectly adhering to the glass.

Before buying, be sure to measure the length of both, and compare the type of hitch of the selected wipers with the existing ones. When looking for wipers on avtotachki.com, you can use the parts search engine by car brand and model - thanks to this you can be sure that the selected model will fit your car.

Why is it necessary to replace the wipers regularly?

The wiper blades are constantly tested throughout the year. They have to deal with rain or on the glass snow, dust and insects, as well as high temperatures and humiditythat significantly affect their condition. When the wipers are worn, they are not good at collecting water and do not provide the driver with a safe field of view, and yet that is their primary task! During the cold months, they work the hardest, and in the warmer months, the rubber hardens, which is why it is worth replacing them twice a year - before winter (so that they will not fail in harsh conditions) and right in the spring (so that they will do a great job when it rains).

Articulated or flat - which wipers to choose?

Articulated wipers are a type of wiper in which a rigid, metal arm - thanks to evenly spaced points of adhesion - presses the blade firmly against the glass surface. Have well-chosen angle of the blades and low profile. Finished with a suitable material such as natural rubber, they do not disappoint.

If you travel frequently on the highways, and you have classic wipers that detach from the glass surface at high speeds and negatively affect your focus behind the wheel, purchasing an articulated set with a spoiler on the driver's side may be helpful. They are characterized by better aerodynamicstherefore they are better suited for driving on highways.

Flat wipers (also called frameless) are made of more flexible materials than their traditional counterparts. They have a frame connected directly to the rubber and ensure perfect adhesion of the blades to the glass. They work well at high speeds because they do not cause high air resistance. They do not rust, remove dirt more effectively, work quietly and generally allow themselves to be gently pulled away from the glass during frost.

A separate issue is the replacement of rear wipers, which drivers often forget. Any scratches are not in sight, which is probably why the micro-damage is not as offensive as in the case of a windshield. Replacing rear wipers is usually more expensive - many of them have an unusual design, which forces the purchase of a new wiper arm together with the arm. However, the rear models are less in use, so they wear out more slowly, and over time, the operating costs of the rear and front sets will even out.

Pay attention to the length of the feathers and the clamp

The parameter that you should consider when choosing wipers is the length of the blades. You'll find it in the vehicle's manual, but you can also get measurements from both previously used wipers, using a tailor's tape measure - not one, because usually the left-hand wipers are longer. To make sure that it is possible to mount the purchased model at all, take a look at what kind of hook connects the pen and the arm the wiper installed so far. And compare the clamp on the new model by looking at the photos in the online store or, if you have the option, directly at the seller.

The material from which they are made is not without significance for the effective work of the feathers. Clearly wins natural rubber and silicone-graphite models with an admixture of polymerthat guarantee quiet operation and minimal friction. Branded, high-quality wipers from manufacturers such as Bosh or Valeo tempt with the prospect of less frequent replacement.

The popularity of flat models increases every year - they are more and more often used in the first assembly, in cars that roll off the production line. If this type of wiper is included in your vehicle's equipment, you have no choice - every time you buy new ones, choose the frameless type.

Remember about this when choosing wipers!

Although it is the winter season that challenges wipers the most - they are often frozen or exposed to work on ice lumps adhering to the glass - high temperatures are also not indifferent to them, because they cause the blades to harden, be less flexible and adhere to less. windows. That's why it's worth it replace the wipers before winter and in the springto avoid problems with visibility. The indication for replacing them as soon as possible is theirs loud and inaccurate work. If you can install flat wipers in your car, do not hesitate - they adhere exactly to the surface of the glass and are perfect for all conditions.

At avtotachki.com you will find articulated wipers with and without spoiler, as well as modern, flat models. To make sure that they fit your car, see the clear specification under the photos.

And if you want to find out how to extend the life of your wipers or what signs indicate that they need to be replaced, read the rest of the series.

How to prolong the life of car wipers?

How do you know when it's time to replace the wipers?

The wipers suddenly stopped working. What to do?