To clean the windshield from raindrops, dust and other contaminants, designers offer various innovative solutions: the use of ultrasound, strong airflow, and laser radiation. The latter system is supposed to be controlled using artificial intelligence and a set of special sensors.
The theoretical advantages of new developments have not been confirmed in practice. Therefore, the motorist needs to get an accurate answer to the question of which windshield wiper blades are best from the models presented in stores.
Choosing the optimal option will ensure traffic safety in difficult weather conditions and prevent unnecessary costs during operation.
Criterias of choice
In addition to matching the dimensions and fastening point, check:
- quality of the windshield wiper;
- maintaining efficiency in heavy rain and other difficult conditions;
- resistance to adverse external influences.
The last item on the list should be studied separately. Rubber structural components must remain flexible in extreme cold. Special additives at the production stage increase their wear resistance and resistance to UV radiation.
High-quality plastic parts do not become brittle when the temperature drops; on metal parts, the integrity of the decorative and protective coating is not compromised over a long service life.
The cost is assessed in conjunction with other important factors. Cheap, insufficiently high-quality products will have to be replaced frequently. Such a solution may turn out to be less profitable compared to investing in more expensive but reliable car wipers.
Which windshield wipers are best to buy: tips for buyers
Be careful and avoid buying counterfeits. Sometimes it can be extremely difficult to distinguish them from the original. But if a potential buyer spends time studying the characteristics and specifications established on the manufacturer’s official website, he will be able to notice even small deviations from the norm: color, size, coating and other parameters.
Before purchasing wipers, pay attention to the following criteria:
- Length. Car repairers and dealers traditionally recommend focusing on the factory kit installed on the car. But in recent years there has been a growing trend towards buying brushes of different sizes. Experts allow this option, but note that they should not interfere with each other along the way.
- Type of wipers. Buy only the version that meets the operating conditions.
- Fittings. Inappropriate types of fastening on cars and brushes will not allow them to be secured tightly. And in some cases you won’t even be able to purchase them.
- Defects. Even minor defects are defects that will cause a decrease in efficiency during operation.
- Additional options. Quite often, newfangled heating falls into this category. But experts consider this function impractical: it is not needed for mild winters, and in cold weather it breaks down due to overloads.
Good and properly selected car brushes mean a safe trip in any weather. Therefore, it is worth taking the time to research the issue and purchase the best option.
Best Frame Wiper Blades
Products in this category are created on the basis of a multi-link support structure. This engineering solution provides pressure at several points and maintains flexibility for a tight fit of the cleaning device to the curved windshield.
The presence of mechanical components and moving joints increases the complexity of the design and increases the risk of extraneous sounds.
Frame wipers are affordable. Manufacturers produce an expanded range, so it is easy for the buyer to choose the required size for their car. On some models, it is possible to replace the cleaning rubber band.
Valeo Silencio Performance
These brushes are supplied to the assembly lines of BMW, Mersedes, and other European automakers. The use of special additives allows to reduce the friction coefficient.
Cleaning is carried out efficiently and quickly, without extraneous noise.
Valeo First VFR60
The affordable price is combined with high quality. In summer, the glass is cleaned without gaps. In winter, the functionality of the device is maintained even in severe frosts.
SWF Das Original
This German manufacturer has been producing car components for over 100 years. SWF brushes have good consumer performance at a moderate cost.
Bosch Twin
The increased rigidity of the working part helps remove a mixture of snow and deicing agents and other complex contaminants. However, the relatively small width provokes deformation under heavy loads.
It is recommended to exclude the operation of wipers on dry glass.
Bosch Eco
Based on the totality of consumer parameters, the inexpensive Bosch Eco brush can be rated 9 on a 10-point scale. There is no special indicator, so the user will have to independently assess wear.
Bosch Rear
Using an adapter device, this model can be installed on different types of mounts. It is possible to quickly replace the working plates.
The limited strength of the fixation unit for these parts makes it necessary to handle the holders carefully when tearing them off the ice crust on the windshield.
Heyner Exclusive
These brushes are supplied without adapters. To install on pin levers or other types of mounting, you must purchase a special adapter. The work plates can be replaced.
Champion Aerovantage
The manufacturer uses a special plastic pad to increase the clamping force. However, tests revealed insufficient efficiency of the device at high speed.
In this mode of movement, the cleaner leaves untreated stripes 90-110 mm wide.
Champion Winter WX60
The rubber composition is suitable for use in winter conditions. A special casing prevents contamination of the hinge joints.
Alca Winter 21
These brushes are best suited for work in the winter season. The functionality of the cleaner is maintained in severe frost (when individual parts of the machine freeze).
For summer, it is recommended to purchase a different set, because rubber can quickly deteriorate when exposed to ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures.
Alca Special Contact
The name of the brushes indicates improved contact with the surface being cleaned. Additional stiffening ribs press the edges tightly.
Denso DRB-030 300 mm
The short blade is for the rear window wiper. The fastening ensures reliable fixation and does not complicate dismantling.
The working edge fits snugly along its entire length.
Denso NDDS
The correct distribution of support points, combined with the softness of the rubber, ensures high quality cleaning at high and low temperatures.
The surface layer on the frame is resistant to external influences.
MyuChamp 550 mm
Classic frame scheme. 8 support points distribute the pressure evenly.
If handled with care, long-term use (2-4 seasons) is acceptable.
SCT-Germany 20" 500 mm Red Blades
Inexpensive brushes with limited performance characteristics. Several passes are required to completely remove water.
Windshield wiper care
Regardless of the concept of the wipers, their care has the same general features - only adjusted for the type of device.
- If, as a result of the operation of the wipers, white dots remain on the surface of the windshield , do not rush to blame the quality of the wipers. The problem is most likely due to micro-potholes on the glass from small flying stones (alas, this is the reality of our roads). Replace the glass or sand it down.
- The hinges of the windshield wiper arms require constant and timely treatment with silicone or silicone lubricant. Due to corrosion, even new windshield wipers can have almost zero contact force.
- Old, worn brushes significantly increase the consumption of already expensive glass washer fluid.
- The more polluted the atmosphere where the car is used, the more often remove the brushes and wash them in warm water and soap.
- Monitor the position of the wiper arm in relation to the glass - they should be perpendicular to each other.
- First free frozen glass from ice crusts. Otherwise, even new brushes will quickly fail.
- Try not to deviate from the recommended or standard length when purchasing new brushes. Wipers that are too short will not provide a properly cleaned sector; long ones may cling to one another. In addition, a non-standard long brush will not provide the recommended degree of pressure.
- The hinges begin to play as they wear out, especially in frame models, so replace such brushes in a timely manner.
- Adjust and select the brushes so that they do not hit the glass seal from the side or bottom.
- Be sure to visit the manufacturers’ websites and find out about the characteristic features of the models they produce. At the same time, try to pay attention to the packaging materials and their design, since the easiest way to recognize counterfeits is by the packaging. And the counterfeit products themselves may not differ in appearance from the branded ones at all. For example, the packaging of Bosch Aerotwin brushes is matte, but fake samples are most often glossy. Stickers on boxes must contain complete information in the language of the country of sale, without errors or abbreviations.
Whatever brushes you prefer and whatever you need based on the make of your car, the main points that you should pay attention to when purchasing are:
- Consider the compatibility of the selected devices with your car (including the availability of adapters if the wipers are not “original”).
- Consider the seasonality of their use. Moreover, in a mild climate (relatively European), it is enough to buy all-weather and all-season windshield wipers. In the extreme - (relatively Siberia and the North of Russia) for winter it is worth taking winter ones.
- It is best to buy in specialized stores. And when purchasing anywhere, pay special attention to the packaging - the main information about the wipers is located on it.
- Before traveling in winter, help your windshield wipers by manually removing snow and ice, no matter how new your windshield wipers are.
The best frameless models
In these “wipers”, the functions of a flexible support are performed by a thick rubber profile with a built-in steel plate. A one-piece element is comparable in cost to an assembled product, so replacement is not economically feasible.
To prevent freezing, some frameless models are equipped with a built-in electric heater.
Such devices are connected to the on-board network through an automated control unit.
Denso Flat Blade
It's difficult to choose a better option than this model. The brushes have excellent aerodynamic parameters and a strong, uniform fit along the entire length.
Using adapters, different types of fastenings are used.
Valeo Silencio X-TRM
The high cost is justified by the long-term preservation of the original cleaning properties. The corresponding conclusions were made by experienced specialists after a series of tests using UV radiation and a temperature chamber.
Uniform pressure is ensured in all speed modes.
Denso Endurovision
A simplified version, which is offered at a reduced price. The brushes are suitable for use in summer and winter conditions. The glass is cleaned evenly along its entire working length.
When purchasing, it is recommended to pay attention to the labeling. Frameless and frame modifications are designated by EFR and EM encodings, respectively.
Goodyear Frameless
Affordable price combined with average functionality. High-quality cleaning is performed by removing rainwater. Contaminated liquid leaves streaks.
Anco Contour
The basic version provides for installation of the product on the pin arm of the windshield wiper. An adapter is used for mounting on a flat mount.
Bench tests confirmed the average fit.
Heyner All Seasons
These brushes clean glass without squeaks or other extraneous noise. Silence is ensured by a special rubber composition and precise design calculation of the optimal angle of inclination.
The softness of the edge material makes it difficult to clean if the central part of the glass is frosted. The corresponding area is deformed, leaving untreated stripes.
Champion Rainy Day
True to their name, the brushes are designed to remove water currents when driving in heavy rain. The softness of the rubber accelerates wear.
Replacement of the working element is not provided.
Bosch Aerotwin
The base of the design is made of natural rubber with a carefully selected composition of additional components, which improves the performance of the purifier in severe frost. The high protrusion functions as an effective spoiler.
The brush moves smoothly, without squeaking (even on dry glass).
Alca Super Flat
There are no complaints about functionality at ambient temperatures of -5°C and above. Severe frost increases the hardness of the working part excessively.
Trico Ice
This model has a Teflon coating to reduce the coefficient of friction. This feature increases the service life and prevents the formation of ice.
You can separately purchase an adapter for a car of the desired brand.
Valeo First Pyramid Multiconnection
To ensure a tight fit of the end sections at high speed, the brush is equipped with special protrusions (spoilers) on plastic plugs.
The graphite layer ensures quiet operation. This model removes water well.
Average service life indicators are confirmed by the results of specialized tests.
Ween Shimo
The standard delivery set includes 3 adapters for different types of fastenings. The accompanying documentation contains detailed installation instructions.
Reviews from owners report that the wipers perform their functions well in summer and winter.
Climair
Silicone and graphite components have been added to the rubber composition. The manufacturer offers replacement inserts for replacing working parts.
Artway
Inexpensive alternative to original equipment. Users report that the midsection doesn't fit well enough.
At high operating frequencies, squeaks appear.
How to install brushes
In this paragraph we will look at how to install frameless wipers on a car. It’s worth noting right away that frameless wipers, unlike wipers, are much easier to install, because here the entire system is based on a special spring steel plate.
Here's a quick installation guide:
- We unscrew the prisoners from the old wipers.
- We take out the wiper housing and bolt covers.
- Carefully unscrew the remaining fasteners (the bolts hold both the wipers and the drive motors).
- Install new wipers according to the diagram above, but in reverse order.
As you understand, installing frameless wipers is a simple and fairly quick process. By the way, if your wipers are equipped with a heating system, then the corresponding power contacts should be connected from the drive motor, so the installation plan is the same as for conventional models.
Best Hybrid Wiper Blades
These “wipers” are created on the basis of a frame structure covered with plastic casings.
Overlays perform several useful functions:
- protect joints from dirt, rain, frost;
- provide good downforce for the brushes at high vehicle speeds;
- improve the appearance and aerodynamic parameters of the vehicle.
The complexity of the product increases its cost. Hybrid brushes are available in a less wide range compared to the considered analogues, so it may be difficult to choose the right model.
High-quality rubber coated with graphite. Reliable steel frame. The standard package includes 5 adapters.
Denso Hybrid Wiper Blade
Some experts put this model in first position in a comparative review. High-quality construction maintains functionality in any season.
Brushes effectively remove water and thawed ice, snow and dirt.
Denso Dur-060l
A composite casing protects the entire length of the frame. The narrow shape does not impair the aesthetics of the appearance.
Valeo First Covertech
High-quality aerodynamic calculation ensures uniform pressure on the working edge even at high speed. The rubber composition is resistant to aggressive deicing agents.
Heyner Hybrid
Experts recommend using this model in the summer. Brushes retain their integrity and shape at high temperatures and are not damaged by UV radiation.
In winter, the functionality of the hinge joints is impaired, since there is no protection in the corresponding part of the structure.
Trico Fit
The manufacturer of these brushes first introduced their products more than 100 years ago. The American company's extensive experience in core activities is reflected in excellent consumer parameters.
The working edges are characterized by increased resistance to abrasion.
Airline AWB-H-430
Tests confirm the average quality of adhesion to glass. Good resistance to external influences is confirmed by test results.
Goodyear GY000526
The devices have a standard fastening and do not creak. Their appearance is no worse than that of brushes from the expensive price segment.
MTF-Light Hybrid U-Hook
The enlarged central part creates protection for the connection points. The shape of the plastic pad creates additional downforce at high speeds.
Janitor's task
Brushes or wipers in a car are the working elements of the entire windshield wiper mechanism, which perform the function of mechanically cleaning the windshield or rear window from water and dirt. They perfectly withstand chemical and mechanical influences and provide the ability to clearly see the road in any weather. The task of wipers is simple - to uniformly clean the glass surface from water and debris.
The main task of a wiper is to clean the windshield
Good wiper blades can provide:
- cleaning glass in any weather;
- cleaning straight or curved glass;
- long performance of their functions;
- Carefully cleans glass without damaging it or causing scratches.
Brushes are important for any driver and, despite their seeming insignificance, it is simply impossible to move without them in certain situations. Any car from the factory should have wipers installed by the manufacturer, but, as a rule, they are not of high quality and quickly fail. Therefore, most often, car enthusiasts immediately replace them with new, more advanced ones and adapted to certain conditions of use - for example, in snowy winter weather.
On a note! Once upon a time, the windows in the car were smooth, and just one rocker arm at the windshield wiper was enough to clear it of dirt and snow. In addition, its pressure was enough for the wiper to lie flat over the entire surface of the glass and clean it well. When curved glass appeared, more complex automotive windshield wiper blades appeared, which can change their shape as the wiper moves across the glass, ensuring excellent adhesion of the blade to it.
Comparison table of brush characteristics
During special tests, the main consumer parameters of wipers are checked.
To simulate operating conditions, temperature chambers and other technological devices are used.
The final results (scores) are shown in the summary table:
| Model | Wear under different conditions | Comprehensive quality/price indicator | |
| Heavy rain | Removing dirt in dry weather | ||
| Bosch Eco (K) | 9,5 | 8,6 | 9,4 |
| Bosch Aerotwin (B) | 9 | 8,9 | 3,8 |
| Valeo First (G) | 9 | 7,5 | 3,3 |
| Denso Viper (B) | 9,4 | 8,3 | 3 |
| Valeo Silencio (C) | 9,3 | 8,4 | 5,6 |
The structures are marked as follows:
- K - frame;
- B - frameless;
- G - hybrid.
The price level is taken into account as of summer 2022.
Tips and tricks
Before starting operation, you should carefully study the manufacturer's official instructions. Brushes are selected based on the type of compatible mounts.
In addition to the standard “hook”, the following are used:
- side clamps and pins (Side Pin, Pinch Tab);
- locking devices (Bayonet Arm, Top Lock);
- Double Claw Clamps.
The length of the driver's wipers must be chosen greater than the corresponding size of the blade that is installed for the passenger sector of view.
Some products are equipped with a wear indicator. A special aerodynamic pad (spoiler) increases downforce.
When purchasing, you should visually check for the absence of burrs and other visible defects.
What are there
Any vehicle purchased at a car dealership is equipped with factory wipers. They are selected taking into account the characteristics of a certain type of car. Such brushes have been used for many years and, as a rule, do their job well. Any detail becomes unusable over time. For many drivers, the need to replace windshield wipers can be confusing. In order to avoid this problem, before purchasing you should familiarize yourself with the types of windshield wipers:
- Frame. Well known to everyone. The most popular group. Used by many automakers as standard wipers. Consist of a metal frame and rubber band. The brushes are secured with hinges inside the housing. Universal solution for convex and flat windshields. In the winter version, the body is placed in a rubber cover. This is done to protect the insides from snow and water. One of the advantages is the high downforce, which was achieved thanks to several points of contact with the glass. This design is absolutely not suitable for use in winter. Modern models are made of plastic. The following disadvantages are highlighted: the use of low-quality rubber, driving over 100 km/h leads to a sail effect, which negatively affects the quality of work, difficulties arise in removing moisture that has entered the body, and condensation occurs inside.
- Frameless. The next stage of development. The simple design shows better windshield cleaning results. The brushes consist of a metal plate placed in a rubber casing, which is closed on the sides with special plugs. New products from the automobile industry received a more concave windshield and frame models did not cope with their task. There was a lack of downforce; the edges of the brushes did not contact the surface at all. All this forced designers to think about updating windshield wipers. Frameless wipers have icing resistance and aerodynamic performance at an acceptable level. They do not deform during operation. Special mention should be made of its pleasant appearance and low weight. The latter factor has a positive effect on the car's windshield wiper drive, as it is subject to less stress and will last longer. The wipers work silently. If it fails, the rubber blade is replaced by removing the plugs on the sides. There is no need to remove the entire structure. One of the best solutions for use in winter. Every year more and more automakers give preference to such windshield wipers. Disadvantages include: high cost and the need for individual selection. There are no universal products.
- Hybrid. They combine the best qualities of the types of wipers described above. They received a closed, streamlined body, which had a positive effect on aerodynamic qualities. The hinges in this design are protected by plastic or rubber inserts. In production, high quality materials are used, which is why this product is resistant to negative atmospheric influences. The optimal solution for traveling in winter. The only thing that may disappoint is the high cost and the inability to install on windshields that are too convex.
- Winter. In countries with cold climates, highly specialized models are in demand. When they were created, the features of operation at low temperatures were taken into account and the possibility of icing of the product was provided. There are 2 types. The first is a frame model placed in a special rubber cover that protects against icing. Outdated solution. The second type is frameless wipers with a protective coating. It consists of graphite coating, which increases protection against the effects of “anti-freeze” and the wear resistance of rubber. In most cases, winter windshield wipers are noisy and cumbersome; their service life is equal to one season. The exception is elite models.
- Heated. One of the most technologically advanced types of winter brushes. Frameless wipers equipped with a heating element. During operation, they do not freeze and thus do not create additional problems. For power supply, the on-board network (12V) and a current of 2A are sufficient. This causes additional connection problems. In most cases, you will need the help of a specialist.
- Rear. Found on hatchbacks and SUVs. This is due to the design features of the body, when dirt flying out from under the wheel hits the glass. Most often, frame models made of plastic are used; aerodynamic performance is not important for them. Windshield wipers cannot be selected according to certain criteria, since manufacturers use specific fasteners.
Additional questions and answers
To buy a suitable brush, you should study not only the model ratings and test results, but also reviews and answers to common user questions. And with the help of the Internet, you can quickly find out what discounts apply as part of ongoing marketing campaigns.
When to change wipers
New brushes are installed when the functional condition of the old ones deteriorates, if washing cannot eliminate the problem. They also check the integrity and performance of individual structural elements.
You can apply a regular replacement scheme with the installation of seasonally appropriate products. Operating conditions have a significant impact on the frequency of performing this procedure.
Which windshield wiper blades are better: framed, frameless or hybrid
For ease of comparison, typical design features are shown in the table:
| Design | Advantages | Flaws |
| Frame | Low price, wide range, possibility of replacing the working rubber band. | Ingress of dirt (freezing), blocking the mobility of the connection unit. |
| Frameless | Good aesthetic characteristics. Tight fit to surfaces with different curvatures. No hinged joints. | High price. Inability to replace tape. |
| Hybrid | Improved appearance. Reliable weather protection. | Limited assortment. High price. |
What is the difference between summer wiper blades and winter ones?
In severe frost, the flexibility of the brushes deteriorates. To maintain high cleaning quality, silicone and other special components are added to the material. Anti-icing reagents have an adverse effect on the condition of individual elements.
In winter, the likelihood of icing on the hinges increases. This adverse effect is blocked by a special rubber cover or plastic linings in frame or hybrid models, respectively.
What brushes do you use? Report your personal operating experience, advantages and disadvantages of the purchased models.
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How to choose frameless wipers
Let's consider the criteria that require mandatory fulfillment when choosing products of similar applications.
- Dimensions. Installing longer brushes is undesirable, as this leads to a decrease in the pressure of the tape on the glass and a deterioration in the quality of its cleaning. If you are forced to install such brushes, you should adjust the adjustment of the washer nozzles to accommodate the increased glass cleaning area. Standard sizes of frameless wipers range from 40 to 65 cm.
- Design. Although we talked in the article exclusively about frameless brushes, it would be stupid not to mention the others. The wipers themselves essentially consist of a cleaning tape and a system that presses the tape against the glass. There are three types of windshield wiper blade designs: framed (functions on the basis of a frame), frameless (based on a spring mechanism) and hybrid (universal for many car models).
- Seasonality. As a matter of fact, based on banal logic, in most cases you should purchase all-season brushes - they will last a long time, faithfully and effectively. Individual summer or winter ones are purchased by people who either do not understand anything about this topic and are in a hurry to save money, or by motorists who use their cars seasonally.
- Material. Windshield wiper blades are mainly made of rubber and silicone. Rubber is more resistant to ultraviolet rays. It is tougher, so it copes especially well with water on glass. Rubber models are more suitable for summer. During cold weather, the material in them freezes and freezes in one position. It turns out that the brush fits tightly in one place and almost does not touch the glass in another. Silicone products are not afraid of frost, so they are often used in winter.
- Presence of a spoiler. When the car moves at high speed, the wiper does not press tightly against the glass, which deteriorates the quality of cleaning. To eliminate this problem, manufacturers add spoilers to the brushes. They are not sold separately, so it is better to purchase the product immediately with a spoiler. Most of all, frame wipers need them. Usually only a driver's wiper with a spoiler is enough. Frameless wipers do not rise as high above the glass, so the risk of the wind tearing them off the glass is much lower. In hybrid brushes, a spoiler is not needed due to the design of the casing - it itself acts as a spoiler here.
