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Whether you drive through rain or snow, your wiper blades impact how clearly you can see through your windshield. When you start to see a smudge or haze on the glass after your wiper passes, it’s time to replace your blades. Wiper blade sizing is the first step to determine what you need to purchase to fit your vehicle and refresh your visibility during a storm. We’ve created a guide to help you choose the size, shape, and material of your next set of wiper blades.
What Is Wiper Blade Sizing?
Wiper blade sizes are customized lengths designed to cover a certain area of your windshield to provide maximum visibility in stormy weather. Most experts recommend sizing your blade as close to the manufacturer’s instructions as possible to maintain safe driving conditions. Once you find the correct measurements, you can purchase vehicle-specific blades or find general blades that match the length required for certain automobiles.
Wiper sizes are indicated in millimeters, noting if the wiper set is for the front or rear of the car. Blades on the driver’s side extend longer than the passenger side to provide the best visibility for the person behind the steering wheel. Choosing a blade that’s too short can leave large areas of your windshield unaffected, lowering your visibility. Blades that are too long can hit each other and cause damage to the blade mechanism.
If you’re unsure of what blade size you need, try looking in the owner’s manual or search for your vehicle blade size online. Rain-X offers a blade size finder on their website where you can search based on the year, make, and model of your automobile. Many manufacturers allow you to choose your vehicle when you purchase a blade or set of blades on Amazon.
Types of Wiper Blades
Windshield wipers consist of a blade made from rubber or silicone. Silicone blades can endure hot or cold conditions and are less likely to squeak. If you prefer rubber blades, try looking for halogen-hardened types which typically last longer than traditional rubber blades.
Conventional
A conventional wiper blade consists of a flat squeegee and a frame. This frame pivots to hold the blade against the windshield and clear water away from the surface. This type of blade is more common on older vehicles. Conventional wiper blades typically cost the least to replace.
Beam
Designed with a contoured shape, beam wipers fit more tightly against the windshield. Instead of a frame, beam wipers use a single piece of rubber to wipe away water more efficiently. Without a frame to trap condensation, beam wipers work well in cold climates with heavy snowfall and ice. These blades tend to be the most expensive types because the thicker blades last longer.
Hybrid
Hybrid blades combine the metal frame of a traditional wiper with the contours of a beam blade for a more aerodynamic design. These functional blades also adapt well to various weather conditions because they tightly connect to a windshield to clear ice, snow, and rain. These blades are priced between conventional and beam blades.
Winter Blades
Use winter blades to gain more visibility in cold environments. These blades add a protective shell around the rubber to prevent ice and snow from stopping the blade or getting stuck inside the mechanism. Some even include heating elements to melt precipitation from the windshield.
Performance Spoiler Blades
Blades with a performance spoiler have an additional rubber flap that steadies the wiper by increasing the pressure between the glass and the blade. It also helps to reduce drag, making the wiper more effective.
How To Choose Wiper Blades
Consider these features and functions when you pick your wiper blades:
- Size: Find the right sizing for front or rear wipers in millimeters or inches based on your vehicle measurements.
- Vehicle: Make sure the blade size you choose fits your make and model.
- Climate: If you live in extreme heat or cold, it’s a good idea to choose a blade that can last through the harsh weather, such as a winter wiper or a silicone blade with more heat tolerance.
- Price: Find the value that fits your finances. Remember, the type of blade will likely dictate the price.
- Durability: Consider how long the blade will last. Certain blade materials have more longevity.
How To Install Wiper Blades
Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner’s manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.
Turn Off Your Vehicle
Park in an area where you can easily access your blades. Make sure your engine is turned off before you begin the process of changing out your wipers.
Access Your Wiper Blade
Gently move the wiper away from the windshield and raise the wiper arm toward you.
Expose the Locking Clip
Turn the wiper blade perpendicular (90 degrees) from the wiper arm. This reveals the locking clip that will allow you to release the blade.
Remove the Old Blade
Press down on the locking mechanism and apply gentle pressure to unlock it. Once you open the locking clip, you’ll be able to take the blade out from the wiper by sliding it down and out from the assembly. Discard the old blade.
Install the New Wiper Blade
Slowly slide the new blade into the wiper assembly and close the locking clip. Test that the new blade is securely locked into the wiper. Rotate the wiper arm back toward the windshield and lower it back down to rest against the glass.
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