Clear Your View: 10 Best Windshield Wipers Review for a Spotless Windshield
All drivers have the same problem when it rains. Visibility is reduced, and you can’t see where you are heading. That’s why car manufacturers install windshield wipers on all vehicles. Even yachts have them so you can get a better idea of how vital this system is. Wipers have to be replaced after a specific period to make sure they work correctly, and you get the visibility you need. That’s why we decided to help you by testing and revealing ten best windshield wipers available on the market.
3 Types of Windshield Wipers
Not all wipers are the same, nor are they made in the same way or for the same purpose. That’s why this is the first fact we will reveal. It is essential to choose the one type that suits you the best, and you can use it for an extended period. Anyway, the three main types are:
- Standard wipers– They have a framework made from metal, and the rubber piece is attached to the metal. It can be an ordinary rubber or halogen-hardened rubber.
- Winter wipers– These wipers are specifically made to be immune to low temperatures and front. They won’t stick to the windshield or get damaged due to snow.
- Beam premium wipers– The last type is the most advanced. They are used for extremely curved windshields, and they can provide excellent performances. They are slightly more expensive than the first two types.
So, what people are mostly looking for?
Many of the models on our review have been popular in 2019 and 2018 also. Some people have been browsing reddit looking for best wiper blades for snow and ice. We have such wipers reviewed here as well as. We also noticed people interested in wipers with silicone blades. The bosch icon has probably been the most inquired about brand and model. Looking for a models suitable for winter has also been high on the list.
Top Windshield Wipers Review
Here is the comparison table showing the first 5 products from our list:
And here is another comparison table showing product 6 to 10:
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Bosch ICON 26A Wiper Blade
You won’t be able to find better wipers than the Bosch ICON 26A Wiper Blade. They have an impressive FX rubber seal that cleans and removes the water from the windshield at all times. The wipers are easy to install and come in all sizes, starting with 23 and up to 28 inches. You will need around 5 seconds to install a new wiper of this type. We also liked that the wipers are excellent to use in all-weather situations and come with improved durability. They last 40% longer than any other model.
You can install them in any vehicle, thanks to the adapters you get in the package. For instance, the Valeo lock is 19 mm, while the side lock is 22 mm. As such, you can use them in your car, truck, SUV, etc. The wipers will make sure there is no water or anything else present on the windshield while operating. The last thing we must add is the curvature of the wipers. It is designed to perfection, so the wipers are very quiet while running. You won’t hear them even under heavy rain.
Pros:
- Last 40% longer than any other type
- Perfect cleaning at all times
- Available in different sizes
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Expensive
- Streak with every wipe is possible
Read full bosch icon wiper blades review.
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Rain-X RX30224 Weatherbeater Wiper Blade – 24-Inches – (Pack of 1)
There are so many things we can reveal about this particular model. It is affordable, but it can only be compared to the most expensive wipers available on the market. You can see that the construction or the base is made from galvanized steel. This simply means that it won’t rust or corrode under any weather, and it will last for a long time. The rubber is high-end as well, and it will last for years. The rubber piece won’t break or crack under any situation.
In the package, you get a J hook, side pin, and also bayonet adapter, which allows you to install the wipers on any vehicle. The installation itself is simple and can be completed within seconds. The stiffness is excellent. It will enable the wipers to wipe the glass entirely, but it won’t hurt the performance under heavy rain. What this means is that the wipers are excellent for all situations. They are even better valued for money, and they come with all the essentials you will ever need.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Galvanized steel central piece
- Immune to rust and corrosion
- Suitable for all vehicles
Cons:
- Attention to detail
- In some cases noisy
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TRICO Force 25-220 High-Performance Beam Wiper Blade
The tested model is another choice you need to consider. We all liked the construction, attention to detail, and the advanced features. First things first, the unit comes in various sizes ranging between 14 and 29 inches, which makes them suitable for all vehicles. Then we can see that the unit also offers Smart VorTech features. What this means is that the wipers will make 100% contact with the windshield at all times and clean it correctly. Removing water from the windshield won’t be an issue.
The wipers are made from high-quality rubber, and they can last for several months. They are suitable for pickup drivers or commercial vehicles due to low price and long lifespan. We must add that on the tests, the wipers were completely quiet, and there were no significant issues. The last thing we will reveal is the excellent customer support. The manufacturer makes several different types, but these wipers are the best.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Suitable for all weather situations
- Durable
- Quiet
Cons:
- Fragile
- Installation
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AERO Hybrid 26″ + 16″ Premium Quality All-Season Beam Windshield Wiper Blades (Set of 2)
AERO Hybrid 26″ + 16″ Premium Quality All-Season Beam Windshield Wiper Blades come in bright light and with a long list of features. The first thing we will mention about this particular model is the high quality of the rubber. Then there is a frameless beam design that makes them suitable for all purposes. Add the fact the wipers fit nicely to any windshield, and you can understand why these units are so popular at the moment. This trend will likely last for many years.
Removing water from the windshield is as effective as possible. The design makes the wipers almost entirely immune to frost and snow. The aerodynamic design makes them quiet at any speed. You will like to know that this model is tested and made to last up to 1 million wipings. The model is also suitable for temperatures of up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit up to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. As you can assume, the wipers are ideal for all-weather situations and all seasons.
Pros:
- Strong
- Durable (1 million usages)
- Temperature range
- No noise
Cons:
- Replacement
- Some owners are not very happy with this model
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Michelin 8024 Stealth Hybrid Windshield Wiper Blade with Smart Flex Design, 24″ (Pack of 1)
The wipers we have here are stunning and probably one of the best models of all time. They have to be in the listing period. The main advantage is intelligent design. The wipers use a cover that eliminates wind noise at any given moment, and also makes the wipers look better, more advanced than usual. Besides this advantage, the resting place on the windshield has been carefully chosen. The blades won’t press the windshield more than needed to remove the water from it. The curvature of the blades is epic and probably one of the best we saw in the recent period.
The feature mentioned above is called Smart Flex, and it will complete any task you may have. It isn’t the only feature we liked. Attaching the wipers to a wiper arm is super easy and simple, especially if your car is compatible with the EZ Lok system. U shaped mounting is possible as well. The only drawback is the lack of compatibility. The Michelin 8024 isn’t compatible with all cars. The noise level is low, but it will become slightly higher under heavy rain.
Pros:
- Modern and appealing design
- Level of noise
- Smart Flex technology
- Well-engineered
Cons:
- List of compatible cars is short
- Noisy under heavy rain
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Michelin 9512 Rear Windshield Wiper Blade – 12 inches (Pack of 1)
Don’t forget that this model is area windshield wipers. All hatchbacks have this type of a wiper, and it should be replaced as well. The model we present you here is coated with a special powder that makes it immune to the weather elements. As such, it can last for many years, and you won’t have to replace it. The wiper is also well-made and comes with a decent level of attention to detail. It looks massive and probably better than the original wiper you are replacing.
The next best thing here is the durable steel central piece. It will hold the wiper in the best and the most desirable place at all times, and it will press the windshield just right. If we know all of this, we can add that the wiper will be a stunning choice for most car owners, and it can be used for years without a need to replace it. The installation is simple, but if you use some adapters, it may get complicated.
Pros:
- Bulky design
- Powder coating
- Performance in all situations
- Steel central piece
Cons:
- Using adapters is complicated
- Expensive
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Rain-X 5079282-2 Latitude Wiper Blade, 28″ (Pack of 1)
The wipers we have here are an advanced model, and they have been popular for years. As a matter of fact, the model in question was the best wiper of 2017. Although there are some better models available today (the ones we reviewed above), this one is still a desirable choice. The main advantage is the Rain-X Water Repelling Coating feature. What this means is that the wipers will coat the windshield with a particular chemical that will make the water slide from the glass and therefore improve your visibility even more. To use the feature, clean the windscreen and run the wipers for 2 minutes and you are done.
The wipers fit nicely to 96% of all vehicles. The installation is as simple as it gets, and you can mount them at any given moment due to the fact they are suitable for the entire year’s use. The pressure the wipers will provide is average, which can be an overwhelming advantage. The drawback we discovered is that the lower section of the windshield won’t be cleaned, so this may be an issue for some of you. As you know, we always provide honest and detailed reviews with all the pros and cons of the products.
Pros:
- Rain-X Water Repelling Coating
- Beam pressure
- Pressure on the windshield is low
- Fit to 96% of the cars
Cons:
- The lower part of the windshield won’t be cleaned
- Design is obsolete
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Bosch MicroEdge 40713 Wiper Blade – 13″ (Pack of 1)
This model is the most affordable of them all. It is a standard type that has a lot to offer and comes with effective systems and features. For example, you get 4.8mm or pin arm, hook arm with size 9×3, and also a bayonet of 7mm. The installation is effortless thanks to the Direct Connect feature, which is standard for this model. In a nutshell, the unit is made for those who are on a tight budget but still want superior performances.
The frame is made from steel, and it decreases the noise despite the fact it is significant. The Quiet-GlideTM feature is something we will share with you as well. The system makes the abrasion on the windshield lower than average and therefore protects the glass from scratches, damages, etc. It is an excellent addition you will want from your wipers. The last, the design isn’t great, and we can see that these wipers look old.
Pros:
- Quiet-GlideTM
- Direct Connect
- Easy to install
- All possible adapters
Cons:
- Old
- Don’t last very long
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Michelin 8524 Stealth Ultra Windshield Wiper Blade with Smart Technology, 24″ (Pack of 1)
Now we have a different and specific wiper that is made for one purpose only, to resist frost and snow. The wiper is massive and looks model, but this isn’t the main advantage. The main one is an independent suspension that will make sure the wipers won’t stick to the glass ever and also prolong their lifespan under cold weather. You can see how the wipers fit the surface and how well they will wipe it at any given moment. The durability is around 300.000 cycles.
The EZ lock is implemented as well. In general, this model suits most vehicles, and you can install it within seconds. You will get outstanding performances in any weather, and your windshield will stay perfectly clean and visible without any noise or additional issues. To summarize, the wipers here are well-made, made by one of the best manufacturers in the business, and they are reasonably durable.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Suitable for all weather conditions
- EZ Lok
- Generally low noise
Cons:
- Noisy under heavy rain
- Massive cover
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ANCO 31-Series 31-24 Wiper Blade – 24″, (Pack of 1)
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The last model on our list has a lot to offer. First of all, the wipers are designed in a smart way, and they come with an audible click, which tells you that the wipers are mounted [properly. By using this, you will eliminate any risk of losing your wiper or it falling off the wiper arm. Besides, they tested model is one of the most affordable wipers we were able to find and the one that is still worthy of your time and your consideration.
The construction is solid, and you can see the great attention to detail. ON the other hand, the wipers are a bit flimsy, which is their main downsize and also the main reason why they are rated in the 10th place. There are no other issues with this particular model, and we can add the fact it is a reliable and appealing constructed unit that has a lot to offer and will be an impressive addition to your car. The model is available in sizes between 10 and 28 inches.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Available in all sizes
- Strong
- Safe installation
Cons:
- Flimsy
- Complicated instructions
Buyers guide for the best windshield wiper
You need to consider a simple windshield wiper as an essential and mandatory investment or safety feature in your car. Think like this. When you are wet, you will want to wipe off the water and get dry as soon as possible. You will need a towel for that. A car’s windshield needs the same thing, but you cannot use a cloth. You need a windshield wiper.
The first thing you need to consider is the type and make of your car. Different cars require different wipers of different sizes and with various installations. You can call the manufacturer or a licensed seller and ask them, or you can check the label of a wiper and see compatible cars. There are a lot of examples here, and we will give you a few of them.
Eagle Talon, which was manufactured between 1995 and 1996, requires a wiper on the driver’s side of 24 inches. A wiper on the passenger side is 22 inches, and the rear wiper is 18 inches. Eagle Summit (1993-1996) uses 20 inches wiper on the driver’s side and 19 inches on the passenger side. There is no rear wiper. Dodge Avenger (1995-2005) uses 24 inches large wiper on the driver’s side and 19 inches on the passenger side.
BMW M (1998-2003) requires 20 inches wipers for both sides of the windshield. The rear wiper is 18 inches long. 1987-1989 BMW M6 uses a 20 inches wipers on the front part, and there are no rear wipers. Isuzu Pickup truck (1981-1995) and a newer model Amigo, which was manufactured between 1988 and 1995, both use 18 inches wipers for the front windshield. They do not have rear wipers.
Keep in mind that there are two windshield wipers on the front of most cars. The most notable exception was Mercedes 190, which had just one wiper. You always have to replace all the wipers at the same time.
A driver’s side is the one where the steering wheel is. A passenger side is the next section, and the rear wiper is used for the rear windshield only. It is usually much smaller and comes with a different connector.
This simply means that the first thing you need to consider is the size. You must find a wiper that is suitable for that particular vehicle, and that comes with adapters that will allow you to install it within seconds or to install it in general. Boats have the same classification, which means that there are specific wipers for a particular type and model of a ship.
Once you have found a compatible wiper, all you need to do is to install it, and you are ready to use it. Please check online or in a local ship which wipers are compatible with your car.
Finding the right size
We cannot stress enough how important it is to find the right size of new wipers. There are countless options out there, and yes, only one dimension is right for your car. All wipers are expressed in inches in the United States. In Europe, they are shown in centimeters. The sizes will be displayed on the official website of the manufacturer but also on the back cover of the wipers.
Once you determine which size your car uses, you will match that number to the number on the cover of the wipers, and you are done. Now you are ready to replace the old wipers and get the best possible visibility.
One of the also essential things to consider is the fact you need to consider the two wipers separately. This means that their sizes will be different. Most cars have a more massive wiper on the driver’s side and a smaller one on the passenger side. You need to match both sizes to get the functionality you need.
Measuring the length of your windshield wipers
It is straightforward to measure the wipers on your car. However, there is one mistake you must avoid. Some drivers will measure the top side of the wipers as it sits on the windshield. This is a mistake due to the fact the sizes of the wipers refer to the rubber piece that sits on the windscreen and makes contact. If you measure the top side, you will get a bigger size, which is inaccurate, as you may believe.
The first thing to do is to lift the wiper of the windshield and press it, so it is entirely flat. Take a measuring tape and measure the rubber piece that sits on the windscreen and write it down. Now repeat the same steps with the wiper on the passenger side. Write its size as well and label them accordingly. Once done, you have the exact size of the wipers, and you are ready to get the replacement units.
In addition, it is an effective method to use the make, model and the year of production of your car. Keep in mind that the year is an essential factor. Some car manufacturers will change the wipers after some time, despite the fact the car is basically the same. This is a rare issue, but it is possible.
Wiper Blade Size Tables
D = Driver
P = Passenger
R = Rear
| CHEVROLET | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Astro | ’85-’04 | 18″ | 18″ | – |
| Avalanche | ’08-’09 | 22″ | 22″ | – |
| Blazer | ’95-’05 | 20″ | 20″ | – |
| Camero | 2000 | 24″ | 21″ | – |
| Cavalier | ’95-’05 | 22″ | 16″ | – |
| Cobalt | ’05-’09 | 22″ | 16″ | – |
| Corvette | ’94-’04 | 22″ | 22″ | – |
| Malibu | ’97-’07 | 22″ | 22″ | – |
| Silverado | ’98-’04 | 22 | 22″ | – |
| CHRYSLER | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Cirrus | ’95-’00 | 22″ | 22″ | – |
| Concorde | ’97-’04 | 24″ | 22″ | – |
| Concorde | ’95-’96 | 24″ | 24″ | – |
| Imperial | ’90-’93 | 18″ | 18″ | – |
| Intrepid | ’93-’04 | 24″ | 22″ | – |
| PT Cruiser | 2009 | 20″ | 21″ | 16″ |
| Sebring | ’07-’09 | 24″ | 22″ | – |
| Town & Country | ’08-’09 | 26″ | 26″ | 16″ |
| Voyager | ’01-’03 | 26″ | 26″ | 16″ |
| FORD | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Escape | ’04-’07 | 20″ | 18″ | – |
| Escort | 2002 | 20″ | 18″ | – |
| Excursion | 2006 | 20″ | 20″ | 16″ |
| F-Series Pickup | ’99-’09 | 20″ | 20″ | – |
| Freestar | ’04-’07 | 24″ | 20″ | 16″ |
| Mustang | ’05-’09 | 22″ | 20″ | – |
| Ranger | ’82-’08 | 18″ | 18″ | – |
| Taurus | ’96-’07 | 24″ | 20″ | – |
| Windstar | ’95-’03 | 24″ | 20″ | 16″ |
| HONDA | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Accord | ’08-’09 | 26″ | 19″ | – |
| Civic Sedan | ’08-’09 | 26″ | 20″ | – |
| Insight | ’00-’04 | 22″ | 19″ | 16″ |
| Odyssey | ’99-’04 | 24″ | 21″ | 17″ |
| Pilot | ’03-’04 | 24″ | 21″ | – |
| S-2000 | ’03-’04 | 16″ | 20″ | – |
| HYUNDAI | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Accent | 2000 | – | – | 18″ |
| Elantra | ’96-’04 | – | – | 14″ |
| Santa Fe | ’01-’04 | 22″ | 20″ | 13″ |
| Sonata | ’91-’95 | 19″ | 18″ | – |
| Scoupe | ’99-’04 | 22″ | 20″ | – |
| Tiburon | ’97-’04 | 22″ | 18″ | – |
| VOLKSWAGEN | Year | Wiper | Blade | Size |
| D | P | R | ||
| Beetle | ’98-’04 | 20″ | 20″ | – |
| Golf | ’93-’04 | 20″ | – | 13″ |
| GTI | ’95-’04 | 22″ | 20″ | – |
| Jetta | ’93-’04 | 20″ | 19″ | 15″ |
| Corrado | ’90-’94 | – | – | 18″ |
| Passat | ’91-’01 | 20″ | 20″ | – |
Installing the new wipers
Now you will have to install the new wipers and obviously remove the old ones. All models are basically the same when it comes to this factor, and all you need is time and patience. Most wipers are held in place with a locking mechanism that has a mall lever. Pull that lever, and you can remove the old wiper from the arm of the wiper. Simply repeat the step in reverse and install a new one. You are done.
As you can see, this process is so simple and easy that you don’t need any help. Once you are done, you can move to the next step.
Here is a great video showing you the whole process of installing windshield wipers:
Testing the new wipers
Now you should check the wipers and make sure they are working correctly. All you should do is go to a car wash or use a hose and pour water on the windshield. As you already know, wipers must not be used on the dry windshield. It will cause friction, and you will damage the rubber piece, and wipers won’t be able to operate as they should.
Turn on the wipers and see how they wipe off the water. The entire surface of the windshield should be wiped from any water or debris. If this is precisely how they perform, you are done. In some cases, you will have an issue. Your wiper blades will reach the rubber seal of the windshield on the bottom of the end of the windshield on the driver’s side. You will have to undo the screw on the bottom of the wipers that holds down the wiper and rotate the entire arm in a suitable direction.
Guide for replacing the old wipers
Here are all the steps you need to follow in order to replace the old wipers successfully and to solve any possible issues. All you have to do is to follow the steps.
- Inspect the windshield
The first thing you have to do is to inspect the windshield. It must be in pristine condition without any cracks or damages. If you detect damage, go to a professional and replace the windshield. If you replace the wipers only, they will get damaged soon, and you will have the same issue as you have now.
- Check the wiper mechanism
All wiper mechanisms have the same components. The first one is a wiper’s arm that goes from the hood, the holder that attaches to the arm and the wiper blade. If the wiper’s arm is bent or damaged, you will have to replace it. This is an affordable investment, and it is something you must do, period. The holder is located on the top of the arm, and it usually cannot be replaced separately. If it is damaged, you will have to replace the entire arm with the holder. Once again, this is an affordable solution that requires just a few minutes of your time.
The last thing to inspect is the wiper blades. They are the component you want to replace. Take a closer look at the curvature of the blade and on the rubber element that makes contact with the windshield. If the rubber is damaged or too hard when press, you need to replace the blades.
This is a necessary inspection that should help you understand will a new wiper solves the problem. In most situations, only the wiper blades have to be replaced due to the fact they are old and possibly damaged. But, if the arm and the holder are damaged, you need to replace them as well. It is a part of regular maintenance, and you should pay close attention to this factor.
One tip we can give you is to try and flat the wiper arm. This is possible only if it is bent, and you can use force to make it go back in the original position and shape. Once done, you are ready to move to the next step.
The wiper arm is held in place with a single nut, and you will have to remove it to remove the arm and the holder. If you are unable to remove the wiper arm once the nut is gone, you will need a unique tool that can be purchased online. This is known as a wiper arm removal tool, and it is basically a screw with a bracket. It will pull the wiper arm as you tighten the screw.
- Remove wipers
There is no unique explanation of how you can remove the old wipers. The first step is to lift the wiper’s arm of the glass. In most situations, you will have a universal wiper locking mechanism. All you must do is press the lever and slide out the old wiper. Side pin is slightly different. You have a small pin, hence the name. Press the pin using a screwdriver and pull out the old wiper. The bayonet model will operate similar to the universal wipers. Pull the lever and remove the old wipers.
Once you are done with this step, you will have to repeat it on the passenger side as well. It is essential to add that you need patience, and you will need time to remove the old wipers safely. The main problem that might occur is the rust and hard plastics that make pulling the lever complicated and almost impossible. Use a set of pliers if needed.
- Installing new units
The thing you have to remember is that you also have three ways to install a new wiper, according to its type. Universal types are elementary to install. Lift the lever and push the new wipers blade until you hear a click sound. To mount a side pin wiper, press the pin and push the new wiper blade. Bayonet models will require you to lift the lever and slide the new blade that will lock in place.
It is essential to add that all wiper blades must be secured in place at all times, and they must not move or fall off when the wipers are activated. To make sure this is the case with your installation, pay attention to the clicking sound that should suggest the blade is mounted successfully, and there are no major issues present.
- Testing
Once again, you have to test the new wipers. Wet the windshield and activate the wipers. You will see that they wipe all the water from the windshield, and they make the glass look perfectly clean. In other words, wipers will do the job they should. You can also go to a car wash and test the wipers there. Leave them running for a few minutes just to make sure the blades will stay in place, and they won’t move.
This step might look irrelevant, but it is actually one of the most important steps you will have to take. The goal is to make sure your replacement is completed correctly, and you are ready to drive under heavy rain, and your wipers will work as they should.
The final word
Windshield wipers are the most straightforward safety system that has the most crucial role. If you want to know how it looks driving without them or with old units, don’t turn on the next time it rains. You won’t see where you are going, so you can get a better idea of how needed they are. Wipers are an appealing safety feature that has enormous importance overall, and they should or better said must be replaced after a few months. The first sign that a wiper must be replaced is a blurry windshield when it rains. Replace them, and you will enjoy the best possible visibility. We have presented you with the best windshield wipers and also a guide so you can find a unit that is just right for you and your car. Take your time, and you will get a unit that is perfect. The best place to get one is online due to a massive number of wipers available.
Last update on 2023-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
