Windshield wipers are essential components that keep your car safe while you drive. You never know when you may experience sudden rain, snow or debris on your windshield, so keep your vision clear with a new set of wiper blades. Review the different styles of blades today and consider replacing yours if they are six months old or older.
What’s the Best Kind of Windshield Wiper?
Windshield wipers come in a few styles, a number of brands and many different lengths. It’s important to purchase the exact length of blades specified in your owner’s manual, but the other brand and type are up to you. There are three basic types of wiper blades that you can choose from for your vehicle:
- Conventional
- Beam
- Hybrid
Conventional blades use a metal frame and a rubber squeegee. The rubber squeegee provides reasonable moisture removal from your windshield, and the metal frame is far more affordable than other types of wipers. They typically last about six months, after that time the rubber squeegee may start to wear out. This causes the metal frame to come into contact with your windshield and can scratch it.
Beam blades are the pinnacle of wiper design. They’re usually the most expensive type, but you can use them for at least a year without experiencing reduced performance. The rubber design curves easily around your windshield and isn’t as affected by snow, ice or freezing temperatures.
Hybrid windshield wiper blades combine an affordable metal frame and an effective rubber shell. The rubber operates in much the same way as a beam blade, but the frame makes it typically less expensive.
What windshield wipers do I need? That depends on your driving conditions and your chosen brand. Most brands offer multiple styles and lengths of wipers, so it’s important to discuss your choice with a local auto parts store representative or read customer reviews online.
Tips for Buying New Windshield Wipers
The most important tip for buying new wipers is to treat it as a preventative maintenance step. Don’t wait until your wipers are streaking and you have poor vision out of your windshield. Follow the recommended replacement schedule or swap yours out at the first sign of wear.
Most windshield wipers don’t require tools to replace, so you can easily swap them out in a parking lot or other safe area. Consider picking up a spare pair of wipers and keep them in your car. This means you won’t ever have to drive with a damaged blade or ineffective wipers.
One way to choose the right length of windshield wipers is to measure them. An even easier way is to shop at an auto parts store with an in-store search system. A VIN lookup system allows you to enter your make and model of vehicle to instantly find out the right dimensions for these and other replacement parts.
Compare leading brands and prices at your favorite auto parts store today. Just like other car parts, there are many factors to consider with a new pair of wipers. Discuss your driving habits with a local representative and see how you can update your wipers at an affordable rate.
