Wiper blades are of great importance to the motorist in any weather. "Wipers" installed by the manufacturer undoubtedly do their job well, but they are not eternal, and therefore sooner or later you will have to think about replacing them.

In such a situation, when your own windshield wiper suddenly breaks, you need to know exactly how to replace it. Moreover, there are more than enough options on the auto parts market.

In this case, you have two options: supply the original wipers from the manufacturer, or add some money and buy the best wiper blades available in any store.

There are 3 types of brushes:, and. For the past 10 years, manufacturers have preferred frameless and hybrid models because they are more efficient and safer. Frameworks are mainly used due to their low cost and durability.

The best wiper blades 2017 - TOP-10 rating

When it comes to buying good windshield wipers directly, there are some things to watch out for. In addition to the obvious fact that you need to know about the compatibility of a particular model with your car, you need to make sure that the brush is good enough, and if there are positive customer reviews.

There are hundreds of variants of various brands on the market that will differ only in price. In order not to get confused when choosing the right wiper for your car, we have compiled a special TOP-10 rating of the best windshield brushes.

Place	Name	Brush type	Length	Manufacturer	Our rating	Price
1	(Editor's Choice)	frameless	24-80 cm	Belgium
2		frameless	24-80 cm	France
3		frameless	56-70 cm	China
4	(Editor's Choice)	hybrid	35-70 cm	South Korea
5		hybrid	35-81 cm	China
6		wireframe	34-70 cm	China
7		frameless	28-70 cm	China
8		wireframe	46-65 cm	Belgium
9		wireframe	28-80 cm	Mexico
10		hybrid	35-70 cm	Belgium

Driving a car (or other vehicle that has wipers) without brushes can be dangerous. Every time you go out on the road, you need to make sure that they are in good working order, since rain or snowfall can start suddenly, and moving in such weather without means for cleaning the windshield can lead to an accident.

Best frameless wipers

This type of brushes appeared in the distant 80s. Many motorists have noticed unusual windshield wipers without a metal frame. Instead, an evodium plate was used, which, under the action of a spring, evenly presses the blade against the glass.

1. Bosch AeroTwin - the best choice according to the editorial board

Bosch is a company that has been involved in the design and manufacture of many amazing products, even though it started out with electrical equipment. When we heard that they make car wipers, we were glad that another competitive brand had appeared on the market.

The model we are considering now is called AeroTwin. For those wondering about sizing, Bosch supplies its wipers with a length of 24-80 cm. Thus, the manufacturer has taken care of the availability of most of the popular sizes.

When it comes to choosing a specific option, buyers always want an objective reason to buy the more expensive model (Bosch AeroTwin is not among the cheapest). Below we want to discuss the most important advantages of this option over the rest.

According to the technical specifications, AeroTwin is equipped with two-component rubber, which will give the driver a perfectly clean glass, and will do it completely silently. This innovative technology is based on the use of soft rubber as a base and hard wear-resistant rubber as a work surface. You can forget about the creak of brushes in the rain or snow forever.

The popular car club ADAC, located in Germany, rated Bosch AeroTwin 5+. This is the only model to have received this rating. The brushes were tested at various temperatures (-8 ° C to +20 ° C), artificial aging, wear tests, and the like. It should be noted that 10 models of the most popular brands took part in the tests.

The excellent quality of Bosch products, modern aerodynamic design and innovative technologies have allowed this model to rise to the first line of our rating. Let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages below.

• Excellent build quality
• You can install it yourself, plus there is an instruction
• Cleans glass perfectly
• Made with high quality materials
• High wear resistance

• Not found

2. Valeo Silencio X-TRM - with proprietary wear sensor

Now we are going to take a look at a really amazing glass cleaner from the renowned company Valeo. This company has long established itself as producing premium wiper blades.

This model also comes in a huge selection of sizes (24-80 cm). Thanks to this, Valeo Silencio X-TRM can be installed on almost any vehicle. The process of installing a windshield wiper is extremely simple, and a novice motorist can cope with this.

A special feature of the Silencio X-TRM is the presence of a special wear sensor. When the device requires replacement, an orange exclamation mark will light up. This proprietary technology will allow you to timely replace the wiper with a newer one.

The innovative design and aerodynamic spoiler will give its owner crystal clear windows. Unlike other similar models, the noise level emitted by the Valeo Silencio X-TRM when cleaning the glass is much lower. Resistance to icing will allow you to clean the windshield without any problems, even in the most severe frosts.

In general, the Valeo Silencio X-TRM is an option for those who want to make the journey by car more pleasant and comfortable at any time of the year and at any speed. Let's move on to the advantages and disadvantages that we have seen.

• Large number of sizes
• Perfectly cleans glass even at speeds of 200 km / h
• Low noise level
• Wear indicator

• Not found

3. Heyner Super Flat - premium cleaner

Tired of changing your windshield wipers every month because they start to creak and don't clean the glass well? Then check out the new premium Heyner Super Flat.

HEYNER has long been delighting customers with quality windshield and rear window brushes. If you need a frameless wiper for all occasions, then choose this brand.

The presence of a special adapter allows the device to be matched to a large number of vehicles. 8 types of fastening are supported, including "hook". The quality of the rubber used is confirmed by the Detroit Testing Laboratory, which tested it through 1 million movements.

Overall, this is a solid Chinese-made glass cleaner. For a relatively low price, you get an effective glass cleaning. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Heyner Super Flat.

• Suitable for summer and winter
• Waterproof coating
• Does not leave streaks even after prolonged use
• Quality materials
• Cleans even at high speed

• Few sizes

4. Alca Super Flat

The Alca Super Flat frameless wiper comes in a wide choice of lengths: 28-70 cm. The main advantages of this model are closed metal parts and a compact design. Thanks to this, the device does not lend itself to corrosion and freezing, and the driver's view is significantly increased, which has a positive effect on safety.

The modern design provides a snug fit of the elastic to the glass, which contributes to a more thorough cleaning of the glass, even at high speeds. The gum material is designed to work effectively in severe frosts and hot summer days.

Additionally, graphite spraying is applied to the gum. This greatly reduces the chance of slippage and gives the impression of a smooth brush stroke. To make the Alca Super Flat fit your car exactly, there is a special adapter included in the kit.

• Large selection of sizes
• Cleans well at high speed
• The set includes an adapter for various types of mounts
• Does not corrode

• Not found

Best Frame Wiper Blades

This is a more classic version, which was previously installed on almost all cars. Its feature is the presence of a metal frame.

1. Bosch Eco - rubber made from natural rubber

Don't want to spend a lot of money on something as small as a windshield cleaner? Then choose frame models that can be changed several times a year without hitting the wallet. Now we will take a look at Bosch Eco, which impressed us not only with its low price, but also with its high quality.

First of all, it should be noted that the Eco car wiper is the budget series of the popular brand. Despite this, the quality remained the same.

A feature of this model is an elastic band made of natural rubber... This is done by casting, so there are no irregularities on the working surface, and the quality of glass cleaning increases significantly. The metal frame itself is powder coated to protect the structural elements from premature failure due to corrosion. For a smoother glide, the blade is graphite-coated.

Considering all the features, Bosch Eco is one of the best frame brushes on the market. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages in more detail so that you can make the final choice.

• Low price
• Good performance
• Elastic band made of natural rubber
• Elastic band can be replaced separately

• It is not advisable to use in winter

2. Bosch Twin

Unlike the previous one, this model is assembled at factories in Belgium, Germany, Romania. The Twin range has long established itself as quality car wipers that do the job perfectly.

A special feature of Twin is the presence of two-component rubber. This technology will give the driver a clean glass in any weather, and will also significantly reduce the noise level. The base of the gum has been made slightly thinner and softer, and the leading edge has been hardened, which allows you to thoroughly clean snow and other dirt from the windshield.

Another pleasant advantage is the ability to quickly remove and install the brush due to the convenient "hook" attachment.

• Closed all-metal frame
• Corrosion resistant
• Hook type
• High quality materials

• No adapters

3. Trico Exactfit - the best value for money

The Trico Exactfit wiper series was released back in 1995. Since then, many drivers have appreciated the quality and affordability of this line.

In general, these wipers are no different from the previous ones. High-quality assembly and materials, graphite-coated rubber band and special slots in the metal ensure maximum cleanliness of the windshield at any speed. The whole structure is quite lightweight, therefore it emits a minimum of noise during operation. Securely mount your device to protect it from theft. And if you have any problems with the installation, you can read the instructions that come with the kit.

The ExactFit frame brushes not only do the job well, but are also made from very high quality materials. Judging by the reviews of numerous buyers, they serve without interruption from 8 to 16 months.

• Adheres well to glass
• Will last more than one season
• Secure mount protects against theft

• Not found

Best Hybrid Wiper Blades

This option combines the advantages of the two previous options. But due to the high price, it is not very popular.

1. Denso Hybrid - Editor's Choice

Denso Hybrid began its journey back in 2005, when renowned car manufacturers became interested in their products. Denso products hit store shelves a little later, but almost immediately won the trust of customers.

What is the reason for their success? The hybrid model combined the advantages of frame and frameless brushes, which was previously not possible to achieve. The low-profile metal frame ensures that the gum is pressed evenly over the entire surface, which allows the glass to be cleaned to a shine. Thanks to its aerodynamic design, the device produces a minimum of noise, even at high speeds. The elastic is made of natural rubber, which is less affected by the sun and moisture. Also, rubber is more wear-resistant than ordinary synthetics.

Denso Hybrid can be installed on most vehicles, made possible by the universal hook-type fastening. The length of the device varies from 35 to 70 cm.

• Aerodynamic design
• Cleans glass well
• Universal hook mount
• Virtually no noise

• Difficult to clean when water gets inside

2. Heyner Hybrid

We gave the Heyner Hybrid the second place among the hybrid models. This is a versatile brush designed for summer and winter use.

In principle, this device is no different from the previous one. Same aerodynamic design, increased glass contact and rubber band. All these characteristics contribute to the highest quality cleaning of the windshield from dirt, dust, snow and water. Thanks to its resistance to corrosion and icing, the Heyner Hybrid can be used safely in both summer and winter.

Overall, this is a great option for those who don't want to change their wiper every season. Heyner has a strength of 1,500,000 repetitions, so it will last you more than one year.

• Aerodynamic design
• Cleans glass well
• Supplied with adapter
• Virtually no noise

• Not found

3. Trico Fit Hybrid

Trico Hybrid wipers are a premium line. They will provide perfect glass cleaning in any weather and at any speed (tests were carried out at speeds up to 190 km / h).

Need a versatile brush that won't get bored with its squeaky sounds? Then take a look at the Trico hybrid series.

• Adheres well to glass
• Does not creak, makes a minimum of noise
• High-quality assembly

• Not found

Buyer's Guide - How to choose auto wipers?

Despite the fact that this would seem to be a small trifle in the car, it can significantly affect the comfort while driving in snowy or rainy weather. Are you going to buy windshield wipers for your car? Then you should choose the best model so as not to change them every month.

Now it is very easy to get confused in the bazaar or in the online store, picking up a good janitor for yourself. There are a bunch of models, but it is rather difficult to determine whether it is good or not by its appearance. What to look for when choosing a brush? Let's figure it out in order:

• Brush size: Not all options are suitable for your vehicle. Length options can start at 28 cm and end with 80 cm. In most cases, it will be enough to tell the sales assistant the model and year of manufacture of the car, and he will select the necessary options himself.
• Wiper design: choose which one is more suitable for your needs (frame, frameless, hybrid). We will talk about this in more detail below.
• Manufacturer: the quality and service life of the product depends on it. German, Belgian, Korean and French are of high quality, but you have to fork out. Although Chinese fakes are cheap, they will have to be changed several times per season (we are talking only about fakes, some popular brands collect wipers in China and are of good quality).
• Mount type: Cunning auto makers have been making unique brush mounts for a long time. On the one hand, this is good, since all the features of the model are fully taken into account in the mounts, so the wipers will fit perfectly. On the other hand, not every model will fit a particular car. There are 9 types of mounts in total. Also, some devices are equipped with universal adapters, but they are attached with a small error.

Take into account each point, and then the purchase will be successful for you!

When the wiper blades become unusable, they cease to cope with their main responsibilities before the car owner, the question arises of how to replace the used wipers. Auto shop counters are overcrowded with brushes of different manufacturers, types and designs so much that just sorting out all the suitable and unsuitable options is already a whole history. And how, at the same time, how to find exactly those ideal brushes that will delight you with the quality of their work, adequate price and appearance.

It is at this moment that many car owners have a question, which one to choose? Which wipers are better frame or frameless?

Huge discussions on various forums and articles on sites are devoted to the answer to this question. Moreover, all the discussions and articles often do not give an unambiguous answer to this question. Somewhere they choose one, where another. Let us and we will try to understand this question and understand why there is no definite answer to it.

The cleaning rubber band in the frame wipers is fixed in a developed metal frame; it is a set of hinged levers, which are commonly called "rocker arms". On the top of them there is an attachment point for the leash. The purpose of the frame is, firstly, to evenly distribute the pressing force from the leash, and secondly, to give the brush the necessary lateral rigidity. To give rigidity to the rubber band, two steel strips are inserted into its grooves.

The main advantages and disadvantages of frame wipers

Advantages:

• the lowest price in comparison with comparable brushes of other types;
• versatility, because rocker arms allow you to effectively use the brush on glasses of almost any curvature;
• the possibility of replacing the cleaning tape;
• wide distribution and availability of brushes of this type.

Flaws:

• freezing and loss of mobility of the frame in winter;
• high windage, due to which the brushes lose efficiency at high speeds;
• less attractive appearance.

You can read more about the frame type of brushes in.

About frameless wipers

Of course, brushes of this type have a frame. It uses a curved spring steel plate housed inside a rubber band. It sets the profile of the brush, which is calculated for the profile of a specific windshield, or some kind of averaged version. The calculated working curvature of the brush must be maintained throughout its entire service life, regardless of dynamically changing loads and ambient temperatures. This predetermined profile contains both the advantage and the disadvantage of this type of brushes. If the profile of the brush matches the shape of your windshield, you get good cleaning and uniform pressure along the entire length of the wiper, if not, uneven cleaning and uncleaned areas even with a new brush.

The main advantages and disadvantages of frameless wipers

Advantages:

• uniform pressure over the entire surface of the brush (if the profile fits your car);
• good aerodynamic qualities, low profile of the brush allows it to work effectively even at high vehicle speeds;
• freeze less than other types of brushes in winter;
• attractive appearance;

Flaws:

• price, such brushes are more expensive than frame brushes;
• less versatile, may not fit your glass profile;

You can read more about frameless wipers in.

So which wipers are best?

Having understood the design features of different types of brushes, evaluating their advantages and disadvantages, you can draw preliminary conclusions about which wiper blades are better frame or frameless. And here the evaluation criterion comes into the first place, which is important for you in the brushes in the first place.

Frame brushes are better if:

• the price is important for you, because they are cheaper than frameless ones, and it is quite easy to replace the gum with them, which also reduces the cost of using the brush in the future. At the same time, they are quite capable of providing an acceptable quality of windshield cleaning.
• you have a windshield of a complex profile, which is why the frame brushes better repeat all its bends and do not leave uncleaned areas.

Frameless brushes are better if:

• you choose universal wipers for year-round use;
• the profile of your windshield has no sharp bends;
• ready to overpay a little for higher performance and appearance;
• good aerodynamic properties of the wiper blade are important to you;

conclusions

It is important to understand that the advantages and disadvantages of frame and frameless wipers presented in the article, advice on which brushes are better in a particular situation are based only on the design features of the wiper. However, the store will offer you specific models from a variety of manufacturers. We all have good and unsuccessful models, there is a marriage or fakes, it may turn out that a high-quality frame brush will cope with cleaning glass better than a more expensive, but low-quality frameless brush.

12/5/2016 at 17:23 · Pavlofox · 2 690

Rating of wiper blades for 2018-2019

Every little detail counts for safe driving. Even such an ordinary thing as wiper blades play an important role on the road.

Rating of wiper blades for 2018-2019 - we studied the forums of motorists and compiled a list of the most popular models that were highly appreciated and praised by consumers. Prices are indicated not for a set, but for one wiper blade.

10. Valeo First Covertech | Price from 500 rubles

The rating of the best wiper blades of 2018-2019 is opened by the wipers. This is a hybrid wiper model with a durable edge and universal attachment. Wipers work flawlessly in any conditions. The only drawback of the model is the high price.

The cost of the model is from 500 rubles.

9. CHAMPION X51E | Price from 270 rubles

Advantages of the model:

• acceptable price;
• excellent quality of glass cleaning;
• in cold weather above -15 ° C, the rubber blade of the wipers remains elastic.

The main disadvantage of brushes is that after a few months of use, squeaks appear.

The approximate price of the model is from 270 rubles.

8. Trico Hybrid | Price from 650 rubles

• natural rubber blades;
• graphite coating;
• reliability of the design.

The American company Trico is known for being the first in the world to launch wiper blades on the market. This historic event took place in 1917. In the USA, the company's products are extremely popular. Since brush mounts are not only suitable for American brands, Trico wipers are highly regarded by car enthusiasts in many countries.

The price of the model is from 650 rubles.

7. Denso NDDS | Price from 800 rubles

Advantages of the model:

• silent work;
• the design of the frame allows the brush to adhere firmly to the glass of almost any car model;
• high-quality and fast glass cleaning without annoying streaks and streaks;

Denso NDDS brushes also have a drawback - the fragility of rubber. But the point here, most likely, is not in the quality of rubber, but in the destructive effect of winter reagents. The disadvantages of the model include the high price.

Estimated cost - from 800 rubles.

6. Valeo Silencio X-TRM | Price 580 rubles

Advantages of the model:

• high-quality material that ensures excellent operation of the brushes in winter and maintains elasticity;
• the design of the wipers helps to effectively remove water from the glass;
• simplicity, convenience and reliability of fastening the brushes;
• soft move without jerks and squeaks;
• fast and high-quality glass cleaning.

The Valeo Silencio X-TRM wipers are most effective when used on the motorway.

Estimated price - 580 rubles.

5. Ween Shimo | Price from 500 rubles

Frameless wiper blades are ranked 5th in our ranking. The model is easy to install and is securely fixed on the leash. The profile of the wipers is made using modern technologies, thanks to which the brushes perfectly cope with cleaning glass at any time of the year. The original shape of the cleaning band allows water to drain away and prevents ice formation. With intensive use, Ween Shimo wiper blades will last at least 12 months.

The average cost is from 500 rubles.

4. Bosch eco | Price 300-500 rubles

Bosch eco- in 4th place in the ranking of the best wiper blades of 2018-2019. They have a well-designed frame with anti-corrosion coating.

The advantages of this model:

• natural rubber blades;
• a good range of mounts and brush lengths;
• excellent work at low temperatures;
• affordable price.

Since this model of wiper blades is quite popular with car owners, it is often faked by Chinese craftsmen. When choosing Bosch eco wipers, you should be careful not to become the owner of counterfeit products.

Estimated price - 300-500 rubles.

3. Heyner Hybrid | Price 430 rubles

On the 3rd place in the ranking of the best car wipers - Heyner Hybrid... These are hybrid brushes that combine the convenient design of frameless models and the excellent job of removing dirt from classic frameless car windscreen wipers. Heyner Hybrid is good because it is designed for all-season use and is resistant to aggressive environmental influences.

The approximate price of the model is 430 rubles.

2. Heyner Exclusive | Price from 250 rubles

The second place in the ranking of the best wipers of 2018-2019 is taken by brushes Heyner Exclusive... These are inexpensive frame wipers that can be installed on any type of leash. Another advantage of the model is that a failed build plate can be replaced. Heyner Exclusive perfectly cope with their function in summer, in winter they perform a little worse when freezing.

Estimated price - from 250 rubles.

1. Alca Super Flat graphit | Price from 320 rubles

Frameless wipers tops the rating of the best wiper blades of 2018-2019. They received the maximum number of positive reviews from motorists and showed the best value for money. They clean the brushes almost perfectly and do not leave streaks. It is best to use Alca Super Flat graphit wipers at temperatures up to -5 degrees, because in severe frost they become clogged with snow, begin to creak and leave streaks.

Cost - from 320 rubles.

What else to see:

• The older and worse the brushes, the higher the consumption of expensive windshield washer fluid.
• Remove the brushes from the machine periodically and wash them with warm water and soap - the swivel joints will last longer.
• Make sure that the wiper leash keeps it perpendicular to the glass all the way. In frame models, the hinges begin to play strongly as they wear out. It is better to replace such a brush.
• When installing the brushes, make sure that they do not knock on the bottom and side of the glass seal.
• Lubricate the wiper lead pivots periodically. Corrosion can be so severe that the downforce is reduced.
• If the glass is frozen, it must first be freed from ice crusts, and only then turned on the cleaners. Otherwise, the wipers will quickly fail.
• When choosing new brushes, do not deviate significantly from the manufacturer's recommended standard length. A longer wiper has a lower contact force. In addition, such brushes can cling to each other. A short wiper will not provide the required field of view.
• If the glass is badly scratched, then visibility will almost certainly be unimportant, even if the brushes are brand new. Such glass is necessary at least

Winter. It is a rare day in our latitudes without having to use the windshield wipers on the trip. Now a blizzard, then a thaw with rain. On the tracks, oily soil suspension, in cities, liquid acid-salty porridge in any weather ... Therefore, we continued to test the wiper blades, paying close attention to the models recommended for winter.

In the cold season, windshield wipers have a hard time: frozen water in all its variety is no better than a myriad of insects and sticky seeds. The falling snow freezes on the working brushes into an ice block, and on the cooling glass during the stay it manages to form a strong translucent shell. Frost after a damp thaw adheres to death the rubber bands of the wipers to the surface, so much so that their edge can come off the base if you try to tear them off by force.

But as there are special winter tires, there are also special winter brushes, which should be more resistant to the vagaries of the weather. They use frost-resistant rubber grades that better retain elasticity at minus, and hide the elastic frame vulnerable to ice. But how much help these tricks, and which option is better for a motorist?

To figure it out, we took five popular models of brushes from among those recommended for the cold season, differing in price level and design, and went to travel on winter roads. The test car is the same as in the fall - a Toyota Land Cruiser with a 52-degree windshield tilt to the horizon. The size of the brushes is 40 cm, the attachment is a hook. The state of the glass remained the same, that is, without abrasions and with three small chips. So we have the opportunity to correctly compare the behavior of the new tested brushes with those that participated in the autumn tests.

The end of the October tests unexpectedly fell on a sudden sharp cold snap with abundant snow, which made it possible to imagine how the experimental specimens would behave in winter. Snowfall was not included in the mandatory program, but it made it possible to feel the effectiveness of the subjects in the entire range of weather conditions. The result was predictable: wet snow adhered to all models, but the frame ones lost their performance much earlier than the frameless and hybrid ones. Despite the giant snow build-ups on either side of the working rubber, the last two continued and continued to clean. This prompted the idea of ​​using the Denso hybrid brushes, which became the absolute leader of the autumn tests, in the winter tests. And to them add two frameless models: comparable in price and the most expensive, two classic winter models in a protective case, expensive and cheap.

Our candidates

Denso wiper blade

The range of prices for models suitable for winter turned out to be less than for summer ones. First of all, by reducing the low-cost segment. Last time most expensive hybrid Denso wiper blade this time it was in the middle of the list, practically unchanged in price. At the heart of its design is a double-hinged metal frame, covered from above with a plastic spoiler of three movably connected parts. It is hingedly connected to the frame elements and tightly covers the mechanism from dirt and adhering snow flying from the outside, although it does not give tightness. In addition, the spoiler is designed to more tightly press the brush against the glass with an incoming air stream at high speeds. The brush is made neatly, gracefully, and at the same time massive. Fastening only for a hook, structurally changing the adapter is impossible.

Valeo first

The same money costs frameless Valeo first, the lightest among the subjects, but ... looking more massive than the similar in design and objectively heavier Bosch model. From the outside, the frameless Valeo looks solid, but it has an outer soft rubber boot that is loosely wrapped around elastic metal elements and consists of two parts. The “Shelter” is not completely airtight, although it does not leave any gaps. A sharp ridge along the upper surface serves to enhance aerodynamic pressure on the glass. The universal attachment point with interchangeable adapters in the kit allows you to use these brushes on a huge number of cars. Moreover, the standard dimensions of the seat make it possible to use adapters of other brands, if necessary, and easily install these brushes on almost any machine.

Bosch Aerotwin

The most expensive model with a margin of two hundred rubles from the second place this time was a frameless brush Bosch Aerotwin from the brand's flagship line. Outwardly and structurally, it is very similar to Valeo, but the outer shell is stiffer here, although in the same way it consists of two parts and has mobility. The firm appears to be deliberately withholding details of the materials the brush is made of. On the official website, there are only streamlined references to the wear-resistant working edge coating and two-component elastic band. In the same place, it is stated in plain text: "the ice does not freeze to the brush." Well, this is already interesting. Despite the fact that the attachment point with interchangeable adapters is made differently than that of Valeo, it is also freely compatible with all "Boshevsky" adapters from brushes of any series. But to install adapters from competitors, a slight modification will be required, after which it will be possible to install frameless Bosch through almost any adapter.

Champion winter

Winter brushes packed in soft covers took the lower price segment in the tests. The protected frame structure was invented specifically for winter conditions, so the height of the working rubber is twice as high as that of summer and all-season models - this makes it easier to deal with snowdrifts sticking to the glass and self-cleaning from ice. One of the most popular and expensive brushes of this design is Champion winter... Surprisingly, the USA is marked as the country of production on their packaging. This is probably why this model is longer than the rest: the Americans do not have the metric system, and 16 inches is still almost 41 cm. The Champion is even lighter than Denso and a little heavier than frameless models. The smooth rubber of the cover is not the most pleasant to the touch and smell, so even for a moment there is a doubt about the origin of the product. But it is scattered by solid rivets and impeccable execution of the metal fastener. By the way, any adapters from Champion frame brushes and most competing brands are suitable for it.

Mega power

The cheapest model in the current testing, as well as in the autumn, is represented by the brand Mega power... Then the brushes of this Russian-Chinese brand showed themselves surprisingly well and became the leaders in terms of price-quality ratio. Judging by what is felt under the cover, inside the winter model there is the same frame with double hinges as in the summer model. At the same time, the rubber of the cover itself is a little rough and pleasant to the touch, the tips look good, and the fastening unit is rather complex in shape. But at the same time, it is suitable for only two types of fastening: for a hook and a flat pin without protruding latches, and it seems that there is no provision for changing the only double adapter.

Model	Design	Weight, g	Edge length, mm	Working edge coating	Changeable adapter	The country	Price, rub
Bosch AeroTwin	Frameless	94	393	n.d.	Yes	Germany - China	800
Valeo first	Frameless	79	400	n.d.	Yes	France - Indonesia	580
Denso wiper blade	Hybrid	127	402	graphite	Not	Netherlands - Korea	575
Champion winter	Frame in a case	112	410	graphite	Yes	USA	510
MegaPower Winter	frame in a case	182	402	fluoroplastic	No. One to 2 types of mounts	Russia - China	460

Put on and take off

Traditionally, we start evaluating brushes with installation and removal exercises. The Valeo snapped and then disconnected most easily. And, if it is not difficult to put all the tested brushes with your hands in thick gloves, then it is only convenient to remove them without exposing your fingers. Despite the more complex fixing unit with the lid, the MegaPower didn’t cause much trouble either. Nevertheless, the cover and the thin latch tongue require the gloves to be removed first when removing the brush. The Denso mechanism of a similar design turned out to be tighter, which greatly complicates both removal and installation, especially when snow is packed inside the adapter. But they keep them tighter, practically without backlash. It is even more difficult to shoot Bosch, which requires precise synchronized finger pressure on the clasp on both sides. But at the same time they put on very easily - no more difficult than Valeo. The Champion turned out to be the most capricious in terms of installation, despite the simplest design of the fastening unit. Due to the tight fit on the wiper arm, the adapter holds on it more firmly than on the wiper - and remains on the arm when removed. And all would be fine, but after installation, you need to make sure that the adapter does not jump off the lever - otherwise, during operation, the brush may slide off it at the most inopportune moment, or even fly away altogether. But when the adapter is fastened properly, Champion holds firmly and practically does not play.

Denso wiper blade
Valeo first
Bosch Aerotwin
Champion winter
Mega power

Liquid and solid water

All the subjects easily coped with the task of brushing off the liquid from the glass surface to be cleaned in one full pass. Moreover, this time there was less water than in a similar summer test. On the one hand, downpour like a wall in our area in winter is almost unbelievable, at best (or worst) it will be a dull drizzle. On the other hand, watering with a hose in a fifteen-degree frost adds unreasonable difficulties to the testing process, including with an objective assessment of the result. Therefore, an anti-freeze liquid is evenly applied from a spray bottle to the entire surface of the windshield. We pour without stinginess until it begins to flow in abundant streams. The lever of the wipers in the position of a single stroke - and we look at the result. But there is nothing to compare: to our surprise, everyone is equally clean, without streaks, traces and stripes. Fine!

Now we complicate the task. The brushes were perfectly clean - they will be in the snow. After the first task, we dip the subjects into a snowdrift for a while, take them out, examine them and, without shaking them off, put them into work: we make a single sweep on the clean glass. After swimming in the snow, frozen snowflakes remained on all the brushes. Denso has the most, as the snow clogged under the spoiler, the least of all for both frame models - Champion and MegaPower. As a result, only these two pairs are not left behind on the glass. The other three models left approximately the same minimum wet streaks. At the same time, quite unexpectedly, Denso, having collected the most snow, gave even slightly fewer stripes than frameless competitors.

Ice test

We develop the icing theme further. Sometimes, after a wet thaw, the cold comes abruptly - and the windshield is covered with an ice crust. Likewise, the brushes also freeze up, even if they are thrown away from the windshield. But their tendency to icing is different: ice glaze sticks to different materials in different ways, even if they are all called by the general word "rubber". For clarity, we send the wet brushes to the freezer, where -20 ° C. And the next day we take it out, and, having isolated it from home heat, we take it outside, where it is -10 ° C. We unfold, study the ice, paying attention to the preservation of the elasticity of the mechanism and the icing of the working edge. And what? The MegaPower edge froze the least - there was almost no ice on it. Well, it is not for nothing that fluoroplastic is often used in industry as an anti-icing coating. The graphite turned out to be less resistant: the rest of the brushes got more frozen on the working edge, but also in different ways. To a lesser extent for Bosch and Champion, a little more for Valeo. But the worst thing about icing was Denso. These brushes were the only ones in which the ice disturbed the correct operation of the hinges, which made the whole mechanism lose its flexibility and elasticity. During the experiment, Denso became icy inside, which means that if they were standing on the car, they would have to be cleaned for a long time or even removed and warmed up.

Like snow on your head

The hardest test for winter brushes is the heavy snowfall. And if you often drive along narrow forest paths, then there are snowdrifts falling from the trees, when the roof of a tall car clings to low hanging heavy branches. So, we are imitating snow ... with the help of snow. Throw it liberally over the windshield, trying to distribute the white cover as evenly as possible. The warmed-up engine is running, and the saloon stove blows from the inside onto the glass at the second fan speed out of four possible. This maintains an optimal temperature on the outer surface: the snow cover slowly melts and tries to start sticking to the cold brushes. Again, one sweep - and we look at the result. If it is not clean enough, we continue to rub, counting the strokes.

Denso wiper blade
Valeo first
Bosch Aerotwin
Champion winter
Mega power

In some ways, this experiment resembled the autumn exercise with wet mud. Here, too, in order to get an objective result, I had to repeat the same thing several times with each pair of brushes and track the trend. The results of each specific measurement were influenced by how the snow was thrown onto the glass: it was physically impossible to achieve a uniform height and density of snow cover on the entire windshield, and even in every attempt it turned out to be physically impossible. Plus, in the course of the work, it turned out that the results were greatly aggravated by solid frozen snow drifts of snow removed from the glass, which were stuffed at the base of the wipers during the experiment. They simply squeeze the levers away from the glass, reducing the pressing force of the brushes. Therefore, for an objective assessment, we had to remove these frozen clods every time - and, in the end, we achieved reliable repeatability of the results, which allows us to draw conclusions. The brushes did the best with the task from the first sweep. Bosch- almost always perfectly clean, with minimal marks and drips. Others required at least two passes for the same cleanliness. After the first time Valeo, Champion and Denso left small wet stripes and spots, diluted a little more moisture MegaPower... The second stroke changes the picture once again: MegaPower is rehabilitated, bringing the glass to an almost perfect state, and Denso and completely leave it dry. But the Champion's progress is less pronounced - it still leaves thin wet streaks. But Valeo's result is even worse: these brushes, in addition to stripes, leave wet spots, so they need three strokes for a glass dry comparable to competitors.

There was a blizzard ...

Bench tests left a lot of reason for thought, identifying the leading models among competitors, but showing a relatively small spread of results in all exercises between the first and the last. Field trials during travel in all manifestations of winter weather gave our test lively details.

Pushkin very accurately called this state of the weather - "there was a blizzard." Just now everything was clean and almost clear, light snowflakes in the air were melting in small drops on the glass - and now everything was clouded with a white shroud, and heavy flakes of snow seem to rush towards you in a continuous dense stream. The wipers do not have time to cope with the volumes of the lying snow, and it does not have time to melt from the warm glass ... Soon a dense ice crust freezes in the corners and on the brushes themselves. It is becoming more and more and is typed on all models, including Bosch, about which it is officially written that the ice does not freeze to them.

But, despite this, all winter brushes do their job very well. Not without streaks and streaks, but they continue to keep the glass clear for safe driving in these most challenging winter conditions. Sometimes, however, quite rarely, all subjects require shaking off the accumulating ice - as a rule, it falls off on its own before it begins to noticeably spoil the work of the janitors. According to our observations, how quickly the ice freezes and how firmly the ice sticks, in practice, depends primarily on the weather and, to a lesser extent, on the model of brushes. But in any conditions Champion and MegaPower are the best at self-cleaning of adhered ice during operation. The fact is that these sheathed models have a higher working edge and more flexible than all the others.

However, even Denso passed the blizzard test very well, despite the semi-open design of the hinge-spring mechanism. Their spoiler turned out to be surprisingly effective - on the go, the snow almost did not clog into the frame. And even in the parking lot, when, after a heavy snowfall, the brushes were completely covered with a layer of snow, all their hinges remained mobile. The main thing is that at this time there are no transitions of the ambient temperature back and forth through zero.

In a thaw on a busy highway with a dirty suspension over the road, which stretches in a train behind each truck, the janitors have to work almost incessantly. And here it is no easier for them than in a blizzard. In addition, from time to time you have to use a washer - otherwise, dirt accumulates on the working edge and traces begin to remain.

But even so, it is not easy to achieve perfection: too much water - the left brush on the return stroke drags it along a few centimeters along its entire height, too little water - dirty stripes appear. And so for all models. But with a slight difference in results: in such conditions, Bosch and Denso brushes work cleaner than others, Valeo and MegaPower do a little worse, and Champion stripes more than others.

However, while the brushes are new, the difference in results was not so great. But we tested them, periodically alternating, all winter - and by the spring the differences gradually began to become more distinct. Although, we must pay tribute, not a single model gave up ahead of time. So you can be sure that any of our test kits should be enough for the season.

Outcome

The differences in the effectiveness of the new brushes, according to the results of winter tests, were not very large. And the direct dependence of quality on price was violated. However, the most expensive model Bosch Aero Tween deservedly took first place in the total results of all tests - and it can be safely recommended to those who care less about the price. Unexpectedly, the Denso hybrid brushes performed very well, the design of which, it would seem, is not well suited for winter. You can safely “forget” to change their clothes after the summer season - and they will continue to work as if nothing had happened. Therefore, the Valeo frameless model, which is close in price, is simply devoid of economic sense, since in most tests it lost to the "hybrid". Champion also surrendered his champion positions: in a blizzard with large snow flakes, he does his job well, but the mud suspended in the air is hard for him. Under the same conditions, the cheaper closed MegaPowers behave, at least, not worse, and sometimes even better. And in general, according to the results of current tests, they show the best value for money.