What are the types of wiper blades and what are their benefits?

Maintaining your windscreen wipers is important especially during the rainy season. This feature is responsible for keeping your windshield and rear windows free from water and other contaminants, giving you a good view of the road even during challenging conditions. Part of maintaining your wipers is replacing them with the right blades, each type has its own benefits, and we have about 5 to cover. So which one of these would you choose?

This is by far the most common type of wiper blade installed on vehicles, it even resembles the look of multiple coat hangers. Sizes of conventional wiper blades range from 10 to 28 inches, it could either have a metal or metal-plastic composite structure comprising a central bridge and articulated links. It’s not the best but it still provides uniform pressure on the glass, plus, it’s cheaper compared to other wiper blades. 

Spoiler-type wiper blades also resemble the coat hanger-like design of a conventional wiper blade. What sets it apart is that it features a full spoiler that runs the length of the blade, allowing it to keep as close to the screen even when facing strong winds or when the car is traveling at higher speeds. 

Flat wiper blades are increasingly appearing on new vehicles nowadays. Compared to the first 2 types mentioned, this one features an entirely different design. Gone is the coat hanger-shaped frame as it welcomes a flatter design that reduces wind noise and is more aerodynamic. The flexors on from the blade also guarantee uniform pressure all along the contact edge, plus, it even provides drivers a better field of vision given that it is more compact compared to a conventional wiper blade.

A hybrid wiper blade combines the solid construction of a conventional wiper blade with an aerodynamic shape. Its design allows a smooth airflow, which creates downforce along the entire length of the blade to keep it planted on the windshield. It has a plastic material that forms its aerodynamic shape, and underneath is a steel sub-structure that provides sturdy support for the rubber wiping element. Overall, its design allows the whole wiper to flex to the shape of the windscreen which then produces a smooth, efficient, and quiet wiping performance.

The majority of your vehicle’s rear wiper blades are unique in design, which is why specific-fit wiper blades serve as a suitable replacement. From the name itself, these wipers are designed for specific vehicles, with them providing a list of models where they can be installed. This makes it an easier task for you to find the right replacement blades for your wiper. It can either be conventional or flat-type blades. 

Aside from knowing the different characteristics and notable benefits of each type of wiper blade, you must also consult other factors including the size of your wiper. You can actually do this just by browsing through the owner’s manual, if you cannot find it then you could go search for it online and look for its correct size. 

Now, your last resort is either to measure it manually or ask for some friendly assistance at the auto parts store. Do take note that most modern vehicles have two blades of different sizes, that said, it is crucial to install the correct size on both the driver’s and passenger’s side of the car. Some older models will have the same size blade for both the driver and passenger sides of the windshield. As for installation, you could either do it at home or ask someone to have it done at the shop for you especially if you’re unsure of what to do.