Choosing The Right Wiper Blade For Your Vehicle
What Does A Wiper Blade Do In A Vehicle ?
The wiper performance is closely related to driving safety, wipers do play a significant part in the safety of the riders. The windshield would be wet if it rains a lot and if the wipers are not used, the driver's visibility will be obstructed by dew that is visible on the window. Accident risk is extremely high when the driver's vision is compromised. As a result, wipers are a crucial automotive accessory that always must be in proper working condition.
Which Wiper Blades Do I Need?
There are different types of windshield wiper blades and each one is distinctive in both form and purpose. To determine which type of wiper blade and connector is appropriate for your car, you will have to weigh the benefits of each type:
Conventional Blades
Over the years, conventional wiper blades have evolved to counteract some of the drawbacks, such as conventional winter blades being equipped with rubber lining on the metal structure to prevent them from freezing. Some blades are fitted with a spoiler to prevent wind lift. You can also find conventional wipers with spray pods that spray the washer fluids from a small sprayer fitted on the wiper. On older cars, these are typical, but less so today. Nowadays, hybrid or beam blades are standard on most new automobiles. The conventional wiper blades are reasonably priced and should normally be replaced every six months. However, these blades are prone to wind lift and do not work well in winter as the metal frame gets frozen. Compared to newer designs, conventional blades are heavier and less effective.
Beam Blades
Beam wipers are also called flat or frameless wiper blades and feature a frameless design, unlike conventional blades. Beam blades don't have exterior frames as regular wipers do. Instead, they consist of a tensioned metal spring incorporated into a rubber element that also houses a rubber or synthetic wiping edge. The metal flexor provides infinite pressure points that help the blade conform perfectly to the glass, providing superior wiping performance. Due to the lack of a frame, the overall package is much smaller making the blade more aerodynamic, which eliminates wind lift and noise and also restricts less of the driver’s vision. Flat blades also eliminate ice build-up on the frame which allows them to be used in winter as well. As a result, beam blades offer more uniform pressure and superior wiping performance compared to conventional wipers.
The beam-style blades are increasingly found as original equipment on many vehicles today due to their efficient and effective design. Beam-style blades are available as retrofits for vehicles originally equipped with conventional blades featuring a traditional conventional blade hook design, or as OE fixtures that cannot be used on hook fittings. The beam wiper blades are significantly more expensive than regular blades.
Hybrid Blades
These blades have a traditional construction with a metal frame linked to an aerodynamic rubber shell for performance that is superior to that of a conventional design. As the name suggests, hybrid blades combine technology from both designs to provide an aerodynamic design with a sturdier sub-structure. It incorporates a metal frame encased within an aerodynamic rubber casing with an integrated spoiler. This reduces wind lift while increasing the down-force, applying uniform pressure on the windshield. Hybrid blades retain a compact and aero design of flat blades, with the performance and durability of conventional blades. Many modern cars are equipped with hybrid wiper blades from the factory due to their smooth, efficient, and quiet wiping action, especially at higher speeds.
If your wiper blades are streaking, skipping, splitting, or squeaking during operation then it's time for you to replace them. Now that you know the types of wiper blades available in the market, you can choose the one best suited for your vehicle, driving, and weather conditions. Flat and hybrid blades are ideal for Canadian weather and road conditions, while conventional blades are best suited for warmer weather. During the winter season, it is recommended that you switch to winter wiper blades for an ice-free and smooth wiping action.
While selecting wiper blades it is important to make sure you select the right size of the blade according to your vehicle’s windshield. Luckily, at Parts Avatar, just selecting your make and model will show you wiper blades that fit your vehicle along with an extensive range of leading wiper blade manufacturers to choose from, making sure you get the best wiper blades for your vehicle.
What Wiper Blade Size Do I Need?
Therefore, always replace your wiper blades with those of the size recommended by the manufacturer after consulting your owner's handbook. This will provide a good fit and guard against damage. If you cannot find your owner's handbook, you can check online as per your vehicle's make and model.
How To Clean Wiper Blades?
It is a good idea to take proper care of your windshield wipers if you want to be able to see well when you are driving along the road. To prevent certain issues, your windshield wipers need to be cleaned and maintained over time.
Preparing To Clean Your Wiper Blades
You just need to gather a few standard supplies to do this. A roll of paper towels or a couple of washcloths, a pail of hot soapy water, and some rubbing alcohol. You will be prepared to begin cleaning once you have all of these. Additionally, you might want to think about washing your vehicle before cleaning the blades. It can help you to remove more dirt or grime on your wiper blades.
Cleaning Process
Grab your bottle of rubbing alcohol, and wipe the wiper blade's edge with it. For this step, use a clean rag or paper towel. This is done to get rid of any soapy residue that could still be present after cleaning. After this, your wiper blades' rubber is cleaned and ready to use again.
Which Brand Wiper Blade Should I Choose?
Bosch Wiper Blades
Bosch is one of the leading brands in the automotive aftermarket sector. Their products are designed and engineered by experienced industry professionals. Bosch never compromises on quality as their products are rigorously tested under real-time scenarios to deliver the best customer satisfaction.
Features:
Natural rubber wiping edge with graphite treatment reduces noise and friction
Pre-mounted multi-adapter that is simple to install
Improved airflow from an aerodynamic wind spoiler produces downforce and prevents blade lift-off
Precision-tensioned steel spring that applies uniform pressure along the length of the blade
Denso Wiper Blades
Denso wiper blades are the ideal fit for a wide range of automobile types. Their wiper blades are painstakingly constructed and tested to guarantee they satisfy the exact criteria of fit and function because they are an essential part of a car's safety system. The number one choice for the aftermarket, DENSO's wiper blades are thoroughly tried and tested so that drivers and aftermarket professionals can rely on their safety and performance. They have a proven OE background and a history of developing innovative new designs.
Features:
Original equipment technology and quality guarantee outstanding wiping performance
Durable, non-corrosive materials, including a natural, high compression rubber wiper, deliver a long service life
Evenly cut edges ensure an effective wiping edge
Low prole inserts provide the perfect wiping angle
High coverage of Asian and European vehicle applications offers optimum customer convenience
For more products, please refer to our Denso Wiper Blades section.
Anco Wiper Blades
Anco's conventional blade features a vented bridge and metal flexor to ensure OE fit and function and delivers reliable wiper performance. Their full line of wiper blades utilizes exclusive designs and materials, and are engineered with the latest technology to ensure a clear streak-free wipe in any driving environment.
Features:
Features a rugged, protective rubber boot to prevent snow and ice buildup
Unique spoiler provides superior blade-to-windshield contact
Provides quick and easy wiper blade replacement
Constructed of high-grade steel for added strength and a heavy-gauge wiper element that resists tearing in sub-zero temperatures
For more products, please refer to our Anco Wiper Blades section.
What Is The Replacement Cost Of A Wiper Blade?
The price range for wiper blades varies from $CAD 10 to $CAD 130 on the PartsAvatar website. However, depending on the type of wiper blade, brand, and vehicle, you can buy a brand new wiper blade from our website, based on your budget and requirement.
Buying Guides & Articles on Auto Parts
Articles and Guides written by auto parts experts to ensure you have all the required knowledge to make the correct purchase here at Parts Avatar.
Read all Guides & Articles