The fact that the wiper blades need to be changed periodically is known to all motorists. However, there is an alternative - replacing only the rubber cleaning tape. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this method, when it can be justified - we will talk about this in this article.

When your windshield wiper blades fail to do their job of cleaning your windshield, leaving streaks, uncleaned areas worth considering replacing. However, there is an alternative - to replace the rubber cleaning tape in the wiper. Most often, the main reasons why car owners decide to replace the cleaning tape on the frameless brush, and not the entire wiper, are as follows:

• the desire to save money - even the cheapest Chinese frameless brushes (of unknown quality), as a rule, are more expensive than a good cleaning tape;
• rare brush. Rare brush attachment, size, lack of suppliers, long delivery times and the like. This is the second most popular reason for replacing rubber bands.

If the brush frame itself is generally serviceable, has not lost its mobility, the steel element of the brush provides the necessary pressure to the glass, then it is quite acceptable to replace the rubber band in such a wiper.

Separately, many manufacturers sell replacement rubber bands for wiper blades. There are such products in the Bosch catalogs, Champion, offers its own branded replaceable rubber band with MARUENU tourmaline, there are replaceable tapes from Alca, SCT and Horse. Elastic bands are sold in different lengths, by the piece, in sets of 2, and some stores have even begun selling cleaning tape in coils by the meter. How much you need so much and cut off.

Rubber bands from Khors Replacement Tape SWF

But the choice of manufacturer is not the only important point when choosing an elastic band for a frameless brush. It is important to pay attention to the profile of the tape and even the width. Most often, frameless brushes use a rectangular profile 6 millimeters wide, but there are other options. There is a profile in the form of a trapezoid, sometimes in brushes an elastic band is used not 6, but 8 millimeters wide.

How to disassemble a frameless wiper

Disassembling a frameless brush and changing the gum in it is quite simple and you can do everything yourself. For this you will need:

• flat screwdriver;
• replacement cleaning tape
• pliers;
• scissors.

Naturally, the main thing is how they wipe the glass. Good brushes should not leave any water films or streaks that impair visibility. At the same time, it is also important how they clean icing and frost, whether they become wooden in the cold. In addition, the resistance of rubber to the reagents included in the glass liquid, as well as to those chemicals that are used by road services, also plays a role. Based on all these parameters in the aggregate, a rating is built by which the brushes and rubber bands for the wiper blade are evaluated.

Consider individual types, which, according to experts, are considered one of the best and are suitable for both the rear and windshields of cars of various brands.

Heynell All Seasons

Many experts in publications for motorists speak in favor of these species. Rubber bands for the wiper blades are quiet, and even after months of operation they do not creak or rustle during operation. The effect is achieved due to rubber raw materials and accurate calculation of the edge angle.

At the same time, this brush is not stiff enough, especially for the cold season, since at such times the middle of the gum rises and no longer cleans the surface.

Denso NDDS

Soft rubber of this brand cleans the surface quite well. Even with prolonged use, no scratches or scuffs appear on the glass. This frame construction with well-chosen attachment points creates a complete grip of the brush on the glass.

However, this type of rubber cannot be attributed to durable. After the cold weather, creaking will be heard during operation. But even so, it will work great for a long time and wipe the glass well.

Alca Winter

These rubber bands are of medium hardness and will work well for many hours in low temperature conditions.

Their only drawback is that they are not suitable for the warm season, and they should be changed to others. And if this is not done, then the gum will very quickly become worthless.

Sparco SPC-10XX

For these brushes, the definition of "universal" is most suitable. They are easy to install on any car without using special adapters. In addition, they do an excellent job with their work in any season.

They have plastic linings that protect the surface from freezing, and rubber has a graphite coating that reduces the coefficient of friction.

Denso Wiper Blade Hybrid

This type of brushes could be considered almost the best (at least that's how they are described in Vprobka magazine). Glass that has been rubbed with this rubber will look like it was fresh from the factory. However, there is one big downside. The Japanese manufacturer really makes them so that they will last for years. But these brushes are also made in Korea. But the latter can no longer be characterized in the same way as the "true Japanese". Unfortunately, it is not possible to distinguish one from the other. Hence the decline in their rating.

Heyner Hybrid

These rubber bands, wiper blades for trucks and cars are the winners of more than one test drive. High temperature and ultraviolet light practically do not affect their functionality. However, they are not suitable for the winter season, since they do not have a casing at the point where the lever is attached to the brush. Therefore, the connections will quickly become clogged with ice, and no movement of the brush will work.

Denso Retrofit (LHD)

Many automakers include this particular brush in the factory supply. This is a frameless, rigid kit. They are distinguished by excellent aerodynamics and quiet operation. However, rubber bands do not clean glass perfectly every time. Mostly problems can occur in winter.

Bosch Eco

The metal frame of this type has an anti-corrosion coating. This is a hard rubber brush. Evenly rubbing the surface along the length, it provides a minimum lifting force. The advantages are complemented by a very competitive price. However, when purchasing this product, you should pay attention that it is original, and not a variant from China.

The given types are not the whole list of top models. For example, rubber bands for Valeo wiper blades and many others show themselves perfectly. Let's see now how to change these details.

Replacing the rubber bands of the wiper blades

Of course, you can put up with when graphite or silicone creak. You can deal with this in various ways. But when the wipers have already stopped wiping the glass, there is nothing left but to change them.

To replace, you only need a screwdriver with a thin blade and pliers.

The janitor is removed from the leash, the rubber band clips are bent with a screwdriver. You need to do this only enough so that the gum can come out of the brush.

Then the plates holding the shape of the gum are removed from it. At the same time, you need to remember the direction of the bends, so as not to confuse them later, since the elastic will not be able to press against the glass otherwise.

In the plates there are selections, which includes a rubber tape. Rarely, but it happens when the sample width is less than the thickness of the rubber groove. Then, with a thin needle file, it is gently expanded.

A new tape is inserted into the latches, which should pass freely there, but without much play in the rocker arms, otherwise the gum will wear out quickly. Best of all, if you don’t clean new rubber bands for wiper blades, buy (Rostov, Moscow or St. Petersburg - online stores quickly deliver parts to any region of the country) the brushes themselves, and not continue experimenting with rubber bands. Otherwise, it may turn out that in the end you will have to pay more for them than for a ready-made set of brushes.

Sometimes, however, it is enough to find something to soak the gum of the wiper blade (this is done with gasoline, white spirit or just hot water) so that they work normally again than to change them for a new set.

As a rule, domestic drivers begin to appreciate the work of janitors in bad weather. Especially at such a time, car owners appreciate the quality of the brushes, because the safety of the driver depends on it. You can learn more about how a windshield wiper tape is selected and how to replace it on a car from this material.

[ Hide ]

Rules for choosing rubber bands for wiper blades

If you are faced with a need, then first of all you need to understand what should be considered when choosing. When buying rubber bands for brushes, first of all, you need to pay attention to their quality. If the product is of high quality, then it should have an even color over the entire surface, and bends or distortions of the structure are not allowed. Also, make sure that the wiper blades are free of torn parts, damage, cracks, or burrs on the wiper side.

A quality windshield wiper belt should be soft and flexible so that it can withstand low temperatures, while cleaning the glass efficiently and without scratching. In addition, if the rubber band is installed on the frame wiper, it should move without problems when bent. Of course, when buying, you can pay attention to the selection of the size - the dimensions of the elastic bands can be different, but usually they are available in sizes of 500 and 650 mm. Buying a longer elastic band by 650 mm with a shorter wiper length, you can cut it without problems, and many of our compatriots do this.

If you prefer cheaper options, you should understand that their not very high quality can be noticed immediately after installation. Cheap cleaners can squeak in the first days after installation, and after some time they will begin to smear dirt on the glass, contributing to the appearance of streaks. If you give preference to more expensive options, then their blade will fit better on the glass surface, respectively, the quality of cleaning will also be higher.

In addition to traditional rubber blades, many other options can be found on sale today:

1. Graphite. These items are available in black only.
2. Silicone blades. Usually painted white, but in principle, it can be anything.
3. Teflon coated blades. Such elements are characterized by yellow stripes.
4. Rubber graphite blades.

Rating of the best rubber bands

In order for the replacement rubber bands on the wipers to work for a long time, you need to buy only high-quality products.

Below are some popular product models:

1. Heynell. Such products are characterized by quiet operation, usually even after long months of operation they work without noise and extraneous sounds. According to the manufacturer, this effect is achieved as a result of the correct calculation of the edge angle. But for winter, this option is not particularly suitable.
2. Denso NDDS. Despite the high quality of windshield cleaning, as well as a relatively long service life, these products cannot be classified as durable. Usually the first troubles in their work appear after the first winter.
3. Sparco. Quite a practical option - the products of this brand have shown themselves to be durable and of high quality. Even during cold weather they work fine. Due to the tight fit to the glass, the maximum cleaning effect is achieved.
4. Alca. This German-made version is considered one of the cheapest, usually available in 600 mm sizes. Of course, a low price cannot be due to high quality, however, in this case, the ratio of quality and cost is the most optimal.
5. Sheron. Czech-made products, produced in the size of 650 mm. The high cost is due to the good quality.
6. Voin. Such products are available in sizes 500, 600 and 700 mm. Their cost is also affordable, they are characterized by a normal ratio of price and quality. But if your budget allows, then it is better to give preference to a more expensive option.

Instructions for replacing rubber bands

How to replace wiper blades:

1. Raise the wiper arms.
2. Remove worn rubberized blades. To do this, first find a place to fix them to the guides, then disconnect them with pliers. Be careful with the clips not to damage them.
3. Each of the rubber bands must be disconnected along with the so-called rib on which it is installed. The rib can be included with the product.
4. As mentioned above, the new product must match the old one in size, so if necessary, it can be cut.
5. Install the product on the wiper instead of the old one, then fix it. Rinse the mechanism after installation.

Things to consider in order to extend the life of the brushes:

1. Keep in mind that running the wipers "dry" will significantly reduce the life of the wipers. Therefore, before you start the windshield wipers, the glass should always be moistened at home.
2. Periodically, the gum can be treated with lubricant or water.
3. During the period of cold weather, leaving the car on the street, you need to take the brushes away from the windshield, since at low negative temperatures it is likely that the rubber will simply freeze. And if you decide to turn on a frozen wiper, this will either wear out the washer motor or the brush itself.
4. Before winter, anti-freeze is poured into the washer tank.
5. The glass should be wiped with a cloth from time to time to prevent the brushes from working on a dirty surface, which may contain small particles that will damage it.
6. Make sure that there is no corrosion and dirt on the wiper joints, because of this they wear out faster. Also, the hinges should be lubricated from time to time.
7. If there is a layer of ice on the windshield, do not turn on the wipers.

Video "The nuances of replacing rubber bands in the Mercedes Vito wipers"

How the rubber bands of the wipers are replaced in a Mercered Vito car and what nuances should be taken into account in this case - detailed instructions are presented below (the author of the video is Roman Romanov).

Car owners very often have various problems associated with minor malfunctions in the operation of the most common elements. Take wipers, for example. This small detail has a huge impact on traffic safety. Moreover, with poorly working wipers, it is not recommended to start moving. In bad weather, flying towards insects on the highway and other similar situations, wipers are indispensable. If the windshield is flooded with water or dirt, then visibility is drastically reduced. And this, in turn, can lead to an accident. If you want to avoid this difficult situation, then keep an eye on the condition of the wipers. Many motorists change rubber brushes when they start to "smear". Some prefer to buy original spare parts, others are satisfied with cheaper analogues. But the question comes down primarily to the quality of the rubber bands on the wipers themselves. And replacing them is much cheaper than buying a new part.

Where to start replacing the rubber bands on the wipers?

If you decide to change the rubber bands on the wipers, then first check with the manufacturer. It is best to purchase models of famous brands that have proven themselves well. But many motorists recommend certain companies that are of high quality at a relatively low price. The cost of these spare parts is low in any case. So, for example, the well-known Denso will cost significantly more than Masuma models, although their quality is approximately the same.

Anyone who does not know how to change the rubber band on the wipers should start small - dismantling the brush itself. To do this, turn on the wipers and wait until the middle of the cycle, when the wipers themselves reach their highest position. At this point (you need to have time to catch it), turn off the ignition. And then your wipers will stop in the selected position.

After that, the wiper must be carefully separated from the windshield. Do not apply force, it may bend or break.

Stand on the driver's side and grab the brush. It needs to be turned counterclockwise several times, after which it will be removed from the wiper. On some models, it is enough to turn the brush 90 degrees and pull it up. There are models where the rubber brush is attached with a plastic retainer, which must be gently wrung out. A similar procedure must be carried out with the second brush, standing on the front passenger side.

Dismantling the wiper blade with a hook-type mount

Dismantling the wiper blade with a button type mount

Dismantling the wiper blade with mounting Side pin

Dismantling the wiper blade with side clamp mounting type

Removing the wiper blade with bayonet mount

Dismantling the wiper blade with a pin type mount

Dismantling the wiper blade with a claw-type mount

Removing the side mounted wiper blade

Dismantling the wiper blade with top lock type mount

Replacing the gums themselves with a complete analysis of the brush may seem like a lengthy procedure, but in reality it will take you no more than twenty minutes. But the savings will be significant.

How to replace rubber bands on windshield wipers

What should be done:

1. remove both side plugs from the brush;
2. remove the rubber spoiler pads;
3. remove (pull off) the old gum.

After that, there is a problem with installing a new gum. Someone manages to carefully insert it in place of the old one. But this is very difficult to do, because the rubber clings to the guides and does not slide very well. You can try smearing with soap to increase slip, but this method does not help everyone. If you don't want to tire yourself out by slowly pulling the rubber band over the brush, then just disassemble it.

It is enough to remove one (any) metal guide. After that, a new gum must be put on the guide that remains in the brush. This is easy to do, but make sure that the elastic does not tear. Then insert the second guide into it and carefully straighten the elastic. Job is done. It is only necessary to return the spoilers to their place and fix the structure with side plugs. Be sure to check the reliability of fixing all the elements, since the wipers have a significant load during bad weather: rain, snowfall and even strong wind. It will be very problematic to purchase one plug per brush separately.

How to change rubber bands on frameless wipers

You need to start with a long brush. Take it in your hands and carefully consider. You will notice two end caps on the edges. And you need to remove the one that holds the gum. Finding the right plug is easy: just move the rubber band to the left / right. If you see that one of the sides is motionless, then you need to remove this particular plug. To do this, you will need a simple flat-bladed screwdriver that can be used to pry off the plug without damaging it. If you are not mistaken, then under the plug is a rubber band.

Now you need to bend it three or four millimeters so that it releases the old rubber band. We get rid of the worn-out part and insert a new one in its place. If it's too tight, you can lubricate the rubber band with soap, which will make the job much easier and increase slip. The size of the gum should match the base, you don’t have to cut anything. Don't forget to press the retainer back to secure the new rubber brush piece. After that, put the plug back in place. The first part of the work has been completed.

Replacing rubber bands on frameless wipers also involves working with a short brush. The beginning of actions coincides with those already described. You will need to figure out which side the latch is on. Then remove the plug, bend the latch and remove the old rubber band.

But then you will face some difficulties. The fact is that the new gum will be longer than the one that was before. What to do in this situation? Insert the elastic band as far as possible, then tighten the latch back. After that, with a sharp knife, cut the gum under the very end of the brush.

Problem solved. It remains only to return the plug to its place.

Many people perceive information better from video master classes. If you want to know how to replace the rubber bands on the wipers video, then carefully follow the actions of the experts. They use the most common tools that can be found in every garage and even in every home. In addition, you do not need special skills to replace the brushes on your car. Even a person who is not very familiar with his device can do this.

But still, experts advise changing the rubber bands no more than two or three times on the same wipers. After all, the main structure also wears out and needs to be replaced.

How to replace rubber bands on wipers: video

• The older and worse the brushes, the higher the consumption of expensive washer fluid.
• Remove the brushes from the machine periodically and wash them with warm soapy water - the swivel will last longer.
• Make sure that the wiper leash keeps it perpendicular to the glass all the way. In frame models, as they wear out, the hinges begin to play a lot. 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.
• Periodically lubricate the hinges of the wiper arms. Corrosion is so strong that the clamping force comes to naught.
• If the glass is frozen, it must first be freed from ice crusts, and only then turn on the cleaners. Otherwise, the wipers will quickly fail.
• When choosing new brushes, do not deviate from the manufacturer's recommended standard length to a large extent. A longer wiper has a lower down force. In addition, such brushes can cling to each other. A short wiper will not provide the necessary field of view.
• If the glass is badly scratched, visibility will almost certainly be poor, even if the brushes are brand new. Such glass is necessary at least