Not where they clean, but where the janitor is on duty with a gun!

From experienced observations

Everyone always needs wipers. Any administration needs them; they are present on all cars. At the same time, attempts to replace mechanical brushes with something more modern - ultrasound or powerful blowing - remain attempts. Manufacturers from time to time announce some innovations, changing frame structures to frameless or hybrid ones, but the essence remains the same: .

Which ones are better? New wipers, as a rule, cope with the job quite well, so we decided to conduct endurance tests that ensure brush wear equivalent to wear during the average annual mileage of the car. Fifteen windshield wiper teams took part in the tests, in each of which we took three identical wipers (why there are three, we’ll tell you a little later). Ideally, I would like to see designs of different types from different manufacturers - frame, frameless and hybrid. But not everyone can boast of such a range. We ended up purchasing seven brands of wipers: Valeo (three types), Bosch (two types), Denso (three types), Champion (two types), Trico (three types), Fenox (one type) and Maruenu (one type). The products of the last two brands were taken mainly because of the polar prices - the difference was almost twenty times!

The most common standard sizes were chosen for the examination: 500–510 mm. Such wipers are installed on cars Lada Largus, Renault Logan, Renault Duster, Lada Samara, Chevrolet Niva, UAZ Patriot and others. On these cars the front wipers are the same length, while on many cars they are different. By using wipers of unequal lengths, automakers strive to increase the cleaning area of ​​the windshield, but this was not relevant to our tests.

How they tested and what they checked

We developed and tested the test methodology several years ago, when we first started. So, we have three brushes of each model. The first is the so-called reference one. It does not participate in the tests, but will serve as a “stove” in the final comparison with the other two brushes tested. The second goes to work for wear and tear. This is the main, longest part of the resource tests. The wiper is installed on a stand, which is a windshield frame (with glass glued in, of course!) with a drive for windshield wipers and a washer system. Periodically, an expert group monitors the progress of the tests, recording the crushing (working in jerks) of the wipers (from above or below, in what position of the leash, at what mileage), as well as the quality of cleaning. The wiper runs half the time on the driver's side, half on the passenger side. 125 hours each.

In addition, according to the method, you are supposed to drive the brushes in real conditions - in a car in the rain. The weather was favorable: there were so many rainy days last summer that we were able to experience everything under equal conditions. The test on the car is not as long as on the stand - only half an hour on the driver and passenger sides. All comments were recorded in the protocol by analogy with laboratory tests.

The third brush from each set went into the climate chamber. There she was tortured at temperatures of +60 °C and -45 °C. 

Each test lasted 96 hours. The brushes were exposed to ultraviolet radiation for another 100 hours. Note that some wipers have an aging indicator - a dark-colored circle pasted on, which turns yellow when exposed to sunlight over a certain period of time. If it has turned yellow, it’s time to replace it due to rubber aging under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Now - about ratings. In each type of test, a janitor could receive a maximum of 10 points. Of course, any expert assessment is by definition subjective, but at the same time it is completely justified. It is often used in sports where meters or seconds cannot be measured and compared—from figure skating to diving. It’s the same here: at all stages of testing, for any “miss” we subtracted half a point from the initial 10 points. The “misses” of each product are listed in the photo gallery.

Is it worth reducing the rating for unclear instructions or ease of installation when the main purpose of the tests is to check the service life of the product? Many will say: the main thing is that the wiper works, and I’ll figure out how to attach it and whether it fits my car. Therefore, for those who do not consider it necessary to take these qualities into account when choosing brushes, we publish the corresponding results in the table as a separate column. And we indicate an intermediate score that evaluates the real abilities of the janitor. And the final score takes into account absolutely all the results of our test. In both cases, we indicate the arithmetic average of all measurements.

Those who do not agree with this approach can make their own calculations: we have pointed out all the shortcomings, and everyone can assess their importance in their own way. As always, we remind you that our findings relate to a specific sample of products and therefore cannot be used to evaluate all products of a particular brand as a whole. In our photo gallery we have arranged the tested products in alphabetical order.

PROS AND CONS OF BASIC WIPER DESIGNS
Frame A common “classic” design with several rocker arms and a large number of hinges. The rubber band is located between two strips of stainless steel.	Frameless The rubber band in brushes of this type is located between wide strips of springy steel that have a deflection.	Hybrid Something between frames and frameless ones. The upper rocker arms are plastic.

What to buy?

As an advantage of all tested products, we note that after being in the climate chamber, we did not find any traces of cracking or damage to the coating of the samples, as well as plaque. Accordingly, this check did not affect the final grade.

The frameless Valeo UM‑650 turned out to be the absolute champion in terms of total points. The last place was taken by Trico NeoForm NF‑500 - also frameless. It turns out that the design does not provide a complete guarantee of success.

What if we count without taking into account the column that reflects ease of installation or the presence of a Russian-language description, and evaluate only the performance characteristics? Then the hybrid Trico Fit HF500 takes the lead. The outsider has not changed - it is again Trico NeoForm NF‑500, frameless.

So it turns out that the brand does not provide a complete guarantee of success.

The worse the brushes work, the higher the consumption. From time to time, remove the brushes from the car and wash them with warm water and soap. Then the hinges will last longer. Try to ensure that the brush leash keeps it perpendicular to the glass. When installing the wipers, do not allow them to hit the glass seal. From time to time, lubricate the hinges of the leashes with silicone. If the glass is frozen, do not try to remove ice by turning on the windshield wipers. In this mode, the brushes will not last long. When choosing new brushes, try not to deviate from the standard sizes recommended by the car manufacturer. Increasing the length beyond the norm reduces the pressing force, and the brushes can cling to each other. A short brush will shorten the field of view.

Now let's look at the ratio of quality and price. The leaders are the simplest frame brushes - Fenox Max Vision and Bosch Eco 50C. 

The last place in this situation was obvious even before the start of the tests: only a true giant of spirit could pay a fabulous 2,400 rubles for the Maruenu Gyraless TW‑50 frame.

So what brushes should you buy? Our tests have shown that none of the three types of design has any advantages a priori (nor does the brand). After bench tests, all windshield wipers reduced the quality of cleaning. Therefore, in our opinion, it makes sense to change wipers more often and not rush to splurge on actively promoted new products. Simple frame structures, if they lose in anything, are only in appearance. However, they don’t look as bad as they cost less. The only thing worth paying attention to is the usability of the wiper. It would be stupid if you cannot install a brush just because it is not designed for your car.

Which wiper would we choose? Perhaps these are Trico Fit HF500 and Bosch Eco 50C. 

The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Choose. We have opened all the cards for you. Manufacturer country Serbia 400 rub. Design/length frameless/500 mm UV radiation appeared small stripes in the upper cleaning zones Fourth place in the overall standings. Very decent performance at all stages. I liked it.	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Choose. We have opened all the cards for you. Approximate price per piece 150 rub. Serbia frame/500 mm No aging indicator Strong squeaking of new wipers on a dry surface Crushing the bottom of the new wipers After climate chamber and exposure UV radiation appeared small streaks on the passenger side Third place in the overall standings. Vice-champion of the competition in the “Quality/Price” category. Definitely worth the money.	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Hungary Approximate price per piece 250 rub. Serbia frame/510 mm No Russian-language information Installation and dismantling does not correspond to the picture Removal may damage the rubber tape. Weak crushing on both sides until mid stroke They get very dirty at the beginning of work After the climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation, a small uncleaned area appeared on the driver's side These brushes are exemplary average in all respects.
The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Hungary Approximate price per piece 370 rub. Serbia frameless/500 mm No information in Russian No aging indicator Requires a fair amount of effort when removing the brush After the climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation, uneven cleaning appeared The brushes performed well in the rain. However, they refused to conscientiously clean the stained glass and slipped to the bottom of the table of ranks. The good impression turned out to be blurred.	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. France Approximate price per piece 500 rub. Serbia frameless/500 mm Design/length Difficult to install A screwdriver is required to access the adapter Crushing dry glass on both sides After the climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation, small streaks appear in the area of ​​the upper edge of the brush The French frameless bike was not memorable. Cleans averagely, installation is not easy.	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Mexico Approximate price per piece 590 rub. Serbia hybrid/500 mm No information on applicability No information about installation location There is no Russian-language information No aging indication After climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation - a small stripe in the area of ​​the upper part of the brush on the passenger side Excellent behavior in the rain. Vice-champion based on practical results. It's a shame no one bothered to work on the text on the packaging.
The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Korea Approximate price per piece 300 rub. Serbia frame/500 mm Design/length Crushing new wipers on both sides After climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation - a small strip on the passenger side Overall vice champion. Fifth place in terms of quality and price ratio. Bottom line: good!	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Korea Approximate price per piece 140 rub. Serbia frame/500 mm No aging indication Crushing at the bottom on both sides Champion in the “Quality/Price” category. Fifth place in the overall standings. Very good!	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Japan Approximate price per piece 2400 rub. Serbia frame/500 mm No Russian text No information about car models No installation information Design/length frameless/500 mm After the climate chamber and exposure to UV radiation, small streaks appeared on the driver's side glass The frame product has a deafening price with rather mediocre performance indicators.
The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Mexico Approximate price per piece 500 rub. Serbia hybrid/500 mm No Russian-language information No information about car models No information about installation locations No aging indicator frameless/500 mm Loose fit Performance champion: excellent behavior in the rain and best results in static measurements. If the price were lower, there would be no price (pardon the pun).	The first one is good in terms of its overall performance characteristics: the hybrid design withstood our marathon better than others. The Bosch frame captivates not only with its great name, but also with its excellent quality-to-price ratio. Mexico Approximate price per piece 450 rub. Serbia frameless/500 mm There is no Russian-language information No information about car models No information about installation locations No aging indicator A tool is required to access the adapter The packaging is an example of disrespect for the consumer. A clear failure on the stand. The only wiper that actually fell to pieces at the 159th hour of bench testing.

Frequent breakdowns, numerous rituals to “reanimate” certain components and clean the windshield await every motorist who has not taken the time to prepare for harsh winter conditions. More serious problems begin to arise when vital mechanisms, such as the windshield wiper, fail. If you underestimate the importance of this device at low temperatures, you will have to do some of its work personally. Otherwise, there is a high probability of accidents due to poor visibility. In this article, we'll look at which windshield wiper blades are best for winter and how to choose the right ones.

How not to make a mistake?

Paying too much attention to design features, many motorists forget about the quality of the working surface of the device. Before choosing windshield wiper blades for the winter, you need to make sure that the polymer strip that directly cleans the glass surface is resistant to severe frost. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to determine this by touch; the material should not be too hard or soft.

Which exit? Study the description of a specific product in detail and use the help of a sales manager. Selecting winter windshield wiper blades for your car will allow you to avoid oddities with sizes and inappropriate fastening systems. A good help when choosing will be the recommendations of specialists, which you will find on our website in the article about “janitors”.

Types of brushes: pros and cons

It is quite difficult to advise which winter windshield wiper blades to buy with the modern abundance of items. Each driver has his own preferences and predilection for certain properties or characteristics. Below is a list of popular types of brushes:

• Frame models represent the most popular category. Their rubber edge is pressed against the glass surface due to a special rocker system. The advantage of this solution is the uniform distribution of pressure along the entire length of the working surface. However, in winter, frame brushes are more susceptible to freezing than others. The wide structure quickly becomes clogged with snow, which completely negates their positive effect.
• Winter brushes are a modification of the type described above. To protect them from moisture and snow, their rocker arm is covered with a special rubber cover. At the same time, winter frame windshield wiper blades have a large windage and at high speeds they put maximum load on the electric windshield wiper drive. Plus, these models have a high probability of depressurization of the cover. If moisture gets in and freezes, a complex cleaning procedure involving preheating will be required.
• Frameless products have a simpler layout. Instead of a metal frame, the rigidity and force of pressing the wipers to the surface is provided by a rubber-plastic body with a solid and absolutely smooth cleaning surface. At the same time, its height is significantly lower than that of previous models. Such characteristics make these brushes most effective at high speeds. Their main disadvantage is that almost all winter wipers on cars without a frame are designed for operation only at temperatures above -20 o C.
• Hybrid Windshield wiper blades for winter are distinguished by a frame clamping system with minimal design dimensions. Accordingly, the key advantages of the previous types, embodied in one product, imply a higher cost.

In the video below, an expert from our company gives advice on choosing windshield wiper blades for the winter.

The IXORA hypermarket offers a wide range of spare parts and components from popular brands DENSO, HELLA, VALEO, BOSCH, etc. Our specialists will always help you make a choice so that you can buy winter wipers for a specific car model in accordance with your preferences.

We wish all motorists a successful winter without snow jams and traffic jams on the way!

DENSO are presented in the table below.

* Please check the applicability of parts specifically for your car with our managers by phone: 8 800 555-43-85 (calls within Russia are free).

Manufacturer	Part name	Detail number	Applicability
DENSO	Wiper blade high profile 40mm] 600mm 24]	DM560	BMW X5 (E53) (00-);CHEVROLET CRUZE (09-);CITROËN C3 I (02-);FORD TRANSIT (00-06)
DENSO	Hybrid wiper blade DU-040L	DU040L	CHEVROLET AVEO (04-11);CHEVROLET SUBURBAN (00-06);FORD FIESTA IV (95-02);FORD FIESTA V (01-10)
DENSO	Wiper blade frame 14"/350mm	DU035L	AUDI A3 (96-03);AUDI A4 (00-04);AUDI A4 (94-01);BMW 3 (E36) (90-00)
DENSO	Wiper Blade Low Profile 31mm] 500mm 20]	DM050	FORD ESCORT V (90-94);FORD ESCORT VI (92-95);FORD ESCORT VII (95-02);FORD MAVERICK (93-96)
DENSO	Wiper blade low profile 31mm] 350mm 14]	DM035	CHEVROLET AVEO (04-11);CHEVROLET BLAZER S10 (93-05);CHEVROLET SUBURBAN (91-00);CITROËN BERLINGO (96-)
DENSO	Wiper Blade Low Profile 480mm	DUR048L	NISSAN PRIMERA (02-);OPEL VECTRA C (02-);VW GOLF III (91-99);VW GOLF IV (97-08)
DENSO	Wiper Blade Low Profile 500mm	DUR050L	AUDI A6 (94-97);AUDI A6 (97-05);BMW Z4 (E85) (03-);BMW Z4 (E86) (06-)
DENSO	Wiper Blade Low Profile 530mm	DUR053L	NISSAN MICRA (03-10);NISSAN MICRA C+C (05-);NISSAN PRIMASTAR (01-);OPEL VIVARO (01-)

The most popular HELLA brand wiper blades are presented in the table below.

Manufacturer	Part name	Size, mm	vendor code
HELLA	Wiper	600	9XW190680241
HELLA	Wiper	500	9XW178878201
HELLA	Wiper	500	9XW190680201
HELLA	Wiper	550	9XW190680221
HELLA	Wiper	450	9XW190680181
HELLA	Wiper	530	9XW190680211
HELLA	Wiper	600	9XW178878241
HELLA	Wiper	650	9XW190680261
HELLA	Wiper	525	9XW178878211
HELLA	Wiper	800	9XW184107321
HELLA	Wiper	550	9XW178878221
HELLA	Wiper	480	9XW190680191
HELLA	Wiper	350	9XW178878141
HELLA	Hybrid wiper blade	650	9XW204584261

The most popular VALEO brand wiper blades are presented in the table below.

Manufacturer	vendor code	Name	Description	Points
VALEO			First Covertech VFH35 350mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH40 400mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH45 450mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH48 475mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH50 500mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH530 530mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH550 550mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH600 600mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH650 650mm	4
VALEO		Hybrid wiper blade (hook)	First Covertech VFH700 700mm	4
VALEO		Frameless wiper blade (hook)	First FB Pyramid VFAM 350mm	3
VALEO		Wiper blade frame	First Conventional VF65 650mm	1

The most popular BOSCH brand wiper blades are presented in the table below.

Manufacturer	Name	vendor code	Applicability*
BOSCH	Wiper		MITSUBISHI Lancer (C6_A, C7_A) 1988-1993;TOYOTA Camry IV (V20) 1996-2001;TOYOTA Corolla VI (E90) 1987-1993
BOSCH	Wiper

To understand how well a windshield wiper is made, you need to try it in different weather conditions. It often happens that even the best summer wipers turn out to be absolutely useless in a frosty, snowy winter. What do they lack to make them suitable for harsh winters?

As a rule, when talking about a winter windshield wiper, we mean a brush that is additionally equipped with plastic or rubber protection in the form of a frame-cover. It prevents the negative effects of snow, rain and frost on the windshield wiper. A winter wiper, in addition to a cover, may also have additional technological solutions. The main one is heating, which prevents the product from freezing to the glass. Frost-resistant materials are usually used in the production of winter brushes. They allow you to maintain the functionality of your wipers, even in the most severe weather.

Rating of winter wipers

Now that we know the differences between summer and winter models, let's determine the best winter windshield wiper blades. The rating will be based on reviews from motorists, the popularity of the manufacturer and the price-quality ratio.

Wipers "Horse Acrobat"

This is an all-season wiper model, which is produced in Russia and is suitable not only for left-hand drive, but also for right-hand drive cars. The length of the brushes can vary from 41 to 65 centimeters. The minimum cost of the product is 5-6 dollars. The creators tried to adapt their windshield wiper to the harsh Russian winter as much as possible. A winter wiper does not have cavities or hinges in which frozen water can accumulate. “Acrobat” is not susceptible to corrosion and the negative effects of deicing agents. A silicone spoiler additionally protects the frame. The elastic bands and shield are changed if necessary.

Among the disadvantages the following can be noted. When the wipers change direction, a clicking noise may occur. Apparently, it is due to the tight fit of the brush to the glass. When the glass is not wet enough, When driving at speeds over 120 km/h, the seal of the windshield wipers drops sharply.

In fourth place in our ranking is a Chinese product from a German brand. The price of such wipers is 7-8 dollars. Alca winter windshield wiper blades can have a length from 33 to 65 cm, so they are suitable for a wide variety of passenger cars.

The protective cover prevents ice from getting inside the brush. Even in snowfalls, Alca winter windshield wipers practically do not freeze. Sticky snow is not a problem for them, so the owner has the opportunity to save money on anti-freeze. The low price of wipers is also positive.

Alca Winter windshield wiper blades have a number of disadvantages. Reviews note a modest appearance - subjective, but still. At above-zero temperatures, wipers leave streaks on the glass. Well, the main drawback is that Alca winter windshield wiper blades do not cope well with their main task at speeds above 100 km/h.

Model TRICO Ice

The price of the participants in our rating is gradually increasing and for this model is already about $9. TRICO Ice winter windshield wipers are manufactured in Mexico. Their size ranges from 40-70 cm. According to reviews from owners, they work silently and clean glass well in any weather. They don’t require much “anti-freeze.” It is noteworthy that the wipers come with adapters that allow you to install the product on mounts of different designs.

There were some drawbacks too. According to reviews, the right blade does its job worse than the left wiper. During heavy snowfall, the TRICO Ice winter wiper cannot cope with ice caused by the accumulation and melting of snow.

Windshield wipers Champion Winter

These are European wipers, which, being a silver medalist, are perhaps the cheapest in our rating. Champion Winter windshield wipers cost about six dollars. Their length can vary from 41 to 60 centimeters. Soft rubber allows the model to press perfectly against the glass. And the sealed waterproof cover prevents snow from sticking.

Champion Winter wipers also have disadvantages. When the second season of use arrives, the cover often begins to leak moisture. Sometimes, in severe frost, the brushes need to be “stretched” so that they work well. At speeds above 120 km/h, the windshield wipers begin to do their job poorly. It is not recommended to leave the product for the summer, since in the warm season they do not clean very well, creating streaks on the glass.

Bosch Aerotwin

This is a well-deserved winner of the “Best Winter Wiper Blades” rating. This model costs from $10, depending on the length (34-80 cm). Bosch Aerotwin windshield wipers are manufactured in Serbia. How are they superior to other models? Firstly, a large range of sizes. Secondly, Bosch Aerotwin windshield wipers completely follow the curve of the glass and do not “petrify” in the cold. Thirdly, they faithfully serve for several seasons.

Among the shortcomings, we can only note the high (but completely justified) price and creaking in harsh conditions.

Winter wiper blades: selection by car

A good wiper should silently and efficiently remove water, snow and slush from the glass. It should not leave streaks of water or streaks. If you notice any shortcomings in the operation of your wipers, it's time to install new winter windshield wiper blades.

Selection by car is just as important as selection by quality. On each package of both summer and winter wipers you can see a list of car brands to which they are suitable. Please note that even cars of the same model but different years of manufacture may have different windshield shapes.

When choosing windshield wipers, keep in mind that curved blades work better than straight ones. Additionally, the main wiper strip should be level and have flat edges. And don’t forget to look on the box for evidence that these are winter wiper blades. Selecting wipers is a simple but very important task.

How to extend the life of wipers?

Even the most expensive and advanced windshield wiper model will not work well and will not last for several years if it is not properly cared for.

The first thing to remember is that you cannot tear off wipers frozen to the glass by force. This rash action can lead to damage to the brushes, as a result of which their performance will decrease. All you need to do if the wiper is frozen is to heat the glass with a stove. While the engine warms up, the brushes will move away, and you can safely go to your destination.

If the windshield is covered with a continuous layer of snow and ice, you should not remove it all with wipers. Working with such glass will quickly cause the brushes to become unusable. And while snow is almost harmless to windshield wipers, ice is simply destructive. There are special scrapers to remove ice from glass. It is important that the scraper has a rubber pad that cleans the glass without scratching it.

If there are obvious traces of dirt on the glass, such as dirt or bird droppings, do not skimp on the detergent. With it, the wipers work much more efficiently and do not wear out. It is very important that the washer is suitable for the season. You should not mix washers for the winter and summer seasons in a barrel. This negligence can lead to glass frosting, which will damage the windshield wiper. A winter wiper that has become covered with a layer of ice for some reason should be cleaned before turning it on. If ice forms inside the mechanism, it may cause it to malfunction.

Windshield wipers should be inspected periodically for cracks and other damage. If you find any problem, it must be corrected immediately. This will extend the life of the device and glass. The fact is that a brush with a damaged rubber band can lead to micro-scratches on the glass. They, in turn, can further cause cracks and chips.

In winter, windshield wipers should be raised as little as possible, as this leads to freezing of the springs. If the spring becomes covered with ice, the brush will not be able to lower. It is recommended to periodically coat the windshield with water-repellent agents. This procedure will make the plight of the wipers easier, because not so much water and snow will accumulate on the surface of the glass.

If you notice that the brushes are not doing a good job of cleaning the glass, try cleaning the rubber blade first. Sometimes this is enough to bring the wipers back to life. You can clean the brush with a napkin or cloth soaked in water, detergent, or alcohol. The edge of the wiper should be smooth and sharp. There should be no nicks, gaps or chips.

Conclusion

Today we figured out how winter wipers differ from summer wipers, chose the best winter wipers and found out how to care for them. Wipers only at first glance seem like a small detail that does not require meaningful operation. Actually this is not true. And with the arrival of winter, every motorist is convinced of this. Therefore, you should not treat windshield wipers negligently, especially in winter, when you need to think not only about visibility, but also about ice. Remember that not only your life depends on driving safety, but also the lives of your passengers, as well as all other road users.

Updated: 03/26/2019 14:39:29

Expert: Boris Mendel

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Windshield wiper blades are one of the main attributes of safe driving, the job of which is to ensure satisfactory visibility of the road to the driver through the windshield. These brushes are plastic (or rubber) scrapers that perform the function of cleaning the glass along the radius of movement of the wiper (windshield wiper) from water, road dirt and other contaminants.

Despite the fact that brushes are a small structural element, its production is considered a fairly important process, which is carried out by more than a dozen manufacturing companies. Actually, making the right choice in a situation of market oversaturation is very difficult, especially for beginners who have just gotten behind the wheel of a car. Therefore, the editors of Expertology magazine, together with a group of experts, compiled a rating of the best windshield wiper blades, divided into three thematic categories. The main criterion in the rating was the overall rating from users, based on reviews in the entire Russian segment of the Internet.

How to choose wiper blades

Even though windshield wiper blades are a fairly simple (at first glance) product, even they have their own specifics. Thus, the Expertology magazine team strongly recommends paying attention to the following points:

1. Brush length. A very controversial attribute lately, on which the functionality of the wipers directly depends. In the original concept, the length of the purchased brushes must match the pair of original ones that were on the car from the factory - this is both the manufacturer’s recommendation and a necessity for safety reasons. However, in modern conditions, it is not uncommon to purchase sets of brushes of different lengths, which, in general, contradicts standards and recommendations. However, the most important thing in this case is that the brushes do not interfere with each other’s mutual work, and if you want to resort to such a purchase, be sure to take this nuance into account.
2. Brush type. Within this classification, all windshield wiper blades are divided into three large groups:
3. frameless– solid plastic brushes mounted on metal guides. They provide more equal wear on the contact surface, reduce noise, but may leave uncleaned corners - in the case of a strongly convex glass surface.
4. frame– a design familiar to everyone, which includes a separate frame (metal or plastic), guides and polymer brushes. They provide a more complete fit even to convex glass, are the cheapest, but are subject to severe wear due to the abundance of elements.
5. hybrid- the most expensive, but at the same time the most advanced brushes, taking the best of the first two types. Due to the articulated design, they adhere better to the windshield, providing high-quality and the most complete cleaning of the surface. But a new design element is designed to ensure uniform wear - a plastic casing, which gives the wipers both rigidity and weight, and prevents them from freezing in winter.
6. Mounting type. Before purchasing a set of brushes, pay special attention to the type of fastening. It must exactly match the original one, otherwise it will not be possible to fix them on the guides (in the body). As a rule, the most common types of fastening are hooks, bayonets, buttons or pins, and in most cases the kit is equipped with a special universal adapter.
7. Mechanical integrity. Needless to say that a new set of brushes should not have any mechanical flaws? Make sure there are no chips, burrs or cracks on the metal body and plastic - such defects can cause rapid destruction of the wipers and also damage the glass surface.
8. On the feasibility of additional components. Recent trends in windshield wipers have led to the introduction of so-called heated wipers. This topic is actively discussed on the Internet, and craftsmen are trying to adapt the elements to power from the on-board network. However, the actual benefit of such brushes is very doubtful - in cold weather the thermal element experiences enormous overloads, which is why it often fails. In addition, effective heating is possible only in the case of prolonged contact of the brush with a specific part of the glass surface - the standard radial passage time is not enough to ensure heating.

Which windshield wiper blades are better: framed, frameless or hybrid?

Brush type	Advantages	Flaws
Frame	The cheapest High prevalence on the market Highly rigid due to articulated design Provide a tight fit of the brush to the glass (even convex) thanks to the pressure of the steel body	– Significant susceptibility of metal housings to corrosion – The process of brush wear occurs unevenly – The articulated design leads to the formation of backlashes and a decrease in the quality of surface cleaning at the extreme points of the radius – Subject to icing of the body and “sticking” of the wipers
Frameless	Provide minimal load on the drive mechanism of the windshield wipers due to their lightweight design High structural reliability (one-piece design with a minimum number of joints) Virtual absence of backlash Less susceptible to icing The noise level is significantly lower than that of frameless models	– Due to the obviously low rigidity (the weight of the structure does not ensure a tight fit of the brushes to the surface), uncleaned spots of dirt remain on convex glass – Strictly individual design, suitable for one or two car models - High price
Hybrid	Combination of compactness and rigidity Improved aerodynamic performance due to the presence of a streamlined body Pressure force on the glass surface at the level of frame models No backlash due to continuous construction Increased service life Resistant to icing and weakening of joints	– The cost is higher than for frameless models

Rating of the best windshield wiper blades

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
Best Frame Wiper Blades	1		1170 ₽
	2		1179 ₽
	3		329 RUR
	4		1638 RUR
Best Frameless Wiper Blades	1		2106 ₽
	2		1299 ₽
	3		480 ₽
	4		1369 RUR
	5		580 ₽
	6		920 ₽
The best hybrid brushes	1		830 ₽
	2		560 ₽
	3		529 RUR
	4		451 RUR
	5		480 ₽
	6		501 RUR

Best Frame Wiper Blades

The first line of the rating goes to premium quality French brushes – Valeo Silence Performance, designed for all-season service in the harshest climatic conditions. In this they are similar to the Bosch Twin, since both nominees have a powerful cleaning part design. However, Valeo went further by adding rigidity to the metal frame design.

Was this innovation a success? Definitely. At least, users leave extremely warm reviews about their experience using these brushes. Among their advantages, they highlight the almost complete absence of play during use, the durability of the edge, as well as a universal connector for mounting on any car. The list of advantages is completed by the fact that the length of the brushes in the range varies widely from 24 to 70 centimeters, that is, everyone has the opportunity to choose the right model for their car. All this splendor is inexpensive, and it appears on the market with enviable frequency.

Advantages

• robust construction with metal frame;
• The range includes brushes ranging in size from 24 to 70 centimeters;
• low purchase price;
• Each model has a special connector.

Flaws

• not found.

The Twin brush with a hard cleaning edge is a real find for users of the temperate climate zone of Russia. The product produced by the world-famous Bosch corporation is aimed at intensifying the glass cleaning process, without compromising on heavy ice, water or dirt - absolutely any contamination is removed without much effort. The assortment includes more than 20 models of brushes for various working conditions (with shortened and elongated edges) and car models - from 30 to 100 centimeters in length.

However, having increased the quality of cleaning, Bosch Twin also received a significant drawback in the form of an underestimation of the working life. In essence, the punch edge can withstand very heavy loads, wearing twice as hard as standard competitive edges. This implies more frequent replacement of brushes and unnecessary expenses, which goes against the users’ ideas about a good product. But, let us repeat: this series is specialized, and if you use it in a gentle manner (without knocking off ice and frozen dirt), then the service life will be noticeably longer than that of competitors.

Advantages

• high quality workmanship;
• reasonable purchase price;
• cleaning edge of increased rigidity;
• wide range of models within the series.

Flaws

• with intensive use in difficult conditions, the working life will be small.

Inexpensive “Exclusive Series” brushes that allow you to achieve outstanding glass cleaning results without much effort. The main feature of the Heyner Exclusive line is the presence of replaceable rubber edge cleaners - this eliminates the need for consumers to purchase bulky entire brush blocks just because the brush itself wears out. This way, unnecessary expenses are avoided, which is a huge plus for consumers.

The second important aspect of Heyner Exclusive is the cleanliness of the work - the wipers do not leave streaks or marks behind them, thereby not interfering with a complete overview of the road situation. They do not creak, which is due to the presence of optimal (not overtightened) contact with the glass, and also ensure the most complete removal of dirt. According to user reviews, this is one of the best choices in the cheap frame brush category available on the aftermarket.

Advantages

• when the brush wears out, there is no need to change the entire block - only the polymer scraper itself;
• abundance of choice in the secondary market;
• good quality of cleaning glass from dirt and water without marks or streaks;
• low price for the entire range.

Flaws

• metal blocks are subject to intense corrosion.

The rating opens with the premium series of Aerovantage brushes from Champion, the main advantage of which is continuity and a significant improvement in operating efficiency compared to previous model series. The updated frame-type model, which received the abbreviation G2A, became a kind of continuation of the work of the previous X5 and X6 series, providing many times better and balanced downforce of the articulated wipers to the glass, as well as convincing cleaning performance even at high speeds.

In addition to standard brushes in a metal frame, Champion Aerovantage includes a number of innovative models in a plastic casing, which are extremely resistant to icing and the appearance of play as the working life is exhausted. Absolutely all models in the line are equipped with universal connectors for installation on any car model, and also meet the highest quality standards in the application category (OE).

Advantages

• continuous improvement of the line to ensure better performance of work functions;
• acceptable prices;
• the presence of universal connectors for the possibility of attaching a brush to wipers of any car model;
• Effectively removes even complex stains.

Flaws

• gradual appearance of noises and creaks due to very close contact with the glass.

Best Frameless Wiper Blades

Thin universal brushes from Valeo, which fully justify the name of the special series. Thanks to their unique curved geometry, they provide an original radial sweep, cleaning the glass from more or less light contaminants. Due to the low weight of the structure and reduced pressure on the guides, they provide faster operation, which is especially good during heavy rainfall.

Among other things, Valeo Silencio X-TRM is extremely insensitive to ultraviolet radiation, sudden temperature changes and intensification of operating conditions - all this has virtually no effect on operating conditions. Thus, the totality of positive features justifies the very high price (in comparison with competitors) of the product, which fans of extremely budget consumable options often disagree with. We would like to add that every invested ruble will be worked out a hundredfold during the operation of the car - the main thing is not to overload the brushes.

Advantages

• relative compatibility of price and durability parameters;
• original curved design with a moderately soft and pliable body;
• ensures proper brush pressure to repeat the parameters of the glass surface;
• high quality manufacturing - resistance to ultraviolet radiation and temperature changes.

Flaws

• not detected.

The name of the brushes in this line includes the word Blade, which means “blade” or “blade”. This attachment was not given to these brushes for nothing: the shape of the edge very much resembles a blade, and in operation it manifests itself in exactly the same way. Together with the dense but balanced clamping Denso WB-Flat Blade perfectly cleans the glass of dirt and ice, leaving no marks and providing satisfactory visibility even in conditions of heavy precipitation.

In addition to all the design advantages, users also note the versatility of the model - a huge number of adapters are included with the brushes, so installation can be done on almost any model of any car brand (as long as it is the right size). The plastic anti-freeze frame, which allows you to use the wipers in winter without any restrictions, also deserves special mention.

Advantages

• affordable price;
• high-quality anti-freeze plastic case;
• a hard rubber scraper made in the shape of a blade;
• balanced clamping force.

Flaws

• not found.

Two steps away from the leading position are expensive but very effective brushes from Heyner, designed for use throughout the calendar year. The main feature of this kit is the presence of a hardening graphite coating on the edge, which allows you to increase the working life to several million cleaning phases. In addition, the geometrically correct construction of the structural elements also attracts attention, giving a tight (but without squeaks or unnecessary noise) fit of the blades to the windshield.

Judging by user reviews, Heyner All Seasons is one of the best (if not the best) representative of the caste of frameless brushes, which is not bothered by problems with the material, or controversial design issues, or even the notorious balance between fragility/strength. The only caveat: the high price factor, but people are willing to put up with it for the sake of long service life and safety in the event of heavy precipitation.

Advantages

• optimal balance between price and quality;
• graphite hardening of the brush edges allows for a significant increase in working life;
• clearly verified design and contact angles;
• complete absence of squeaks during operation.

Flaws

• not detected.

The fourth line of the rating is occupied by a very strong representative of the Bosch range, a set of universal frameless Aerotwin brushes. The beauty of this product lies in its commitment to very high-quality glass cleaning: the shape and curves allow you to achieve the maximum possible fit (without tension or squeaks) of the brush while ensuring the proper level of dirt removal. In addition, it is worth noting the universal method of attaching the brush to the guide - the hook locker fits most running car models, so the kit does not even need an adapter.

As experts note, the Aerotwin plastic body is complemented by a specially designed rubber scraper, which does a good job of cleaning glass in summer (for example, cleaning dirt with coarse particles that act as an improvised abrasive) and in winter (it is not subject to icing and hardening). And everything would be fine, but the working resource is greatly limited by the intensity of use - in places with high precipitation rates, the replacement interval can be once every six months to a year.

Advantages

• a well-thought-out shape that ensures a stable fit of the brush to the glass;
• all-season;
• Universal mount suitable for most cars.

Flaws

• a large dependence of the brush life on the intensity of use.

An inexpensive frameless brush, designed in compliance with all possible parameters of quality and reliability. The German company Alca relied on providing the best strength parameters, and therefore the dimensions of Winter were abnormally increased in comparison with other representatives of the rating. This entailed two radically opposite points: firstly, the quality of cleaning and the fit of the brush to the glass increased noticeably; secondly, the load on the guides has also increased significantly.

However, consumers were delighted with the action of Alca Witner: the brush provides several times better cleaning of the windshield, knocking off any ice even with little impact on it from the anti-freeze agent. Moreover, the brushes are not afraid of frozen dirt, which is very good for those who like to go off-road. This kit could have claimed the highest place in the ranking, but it was let down by another, very annoying point: judging by the reviews of the same users, it has strict seasonality. In the summer, with intense direct sunlight, the plastic very quickly becomes unusable and crumbles right before our eyes.

Advantages

• low cost;
• excellent cleaning parameters in winter;
• dimensional and massive, the brushes ensure a tight fit to the glass no matter how it bends;
• high quality workmanship.

Flaws

• strict seasonality of the product.

One of two representatives of the Japanese company Denso in the category, ideal for long trips in any bad weather. The aerodynamically correct design of Retrofit is the result of painstaking work and testing of brushes in laboratory conditions. Engineers tried to combine the increased rigidity of the plastic body and the maximum fit of the edge to the glass in order to ensure good visibility through the windshield even in the event of heavy rainfall.

At the same time, the rigidity of the brush itself allows you to “brush off” fairly persistent obstructions to your view, such as ice or dried dirt, from the glass. True, the frameless base significantly affects the limitation of effort: from an excess of it, the Denso Retrofit kit can simply break. This nuance has failed customers more than once during operation, so it is worth keeping in mind that this kit must be handled delicately or not used at all in regions with a temperate climate.

Advantages

• low price;
• virtual absence of noise;
• provide good cleaning of glass from dirt and visibility barriers.

Flaws

• high rigidity due to which the brush does not adhere to convex glass;
• The plastic case cannot withstand the combined effects of pressure and cold.

The best hybrid brushes

Quite massive, but therefore reliable, Valeo First Covertech brushes are renowned as high-quality consumables for all-season use. They cannot be called magnificent in decorative terms, but in a number of car body designs they look very organic. They are supplied to the market in sizes from 35 to 70 centimeters, which makes it possible to purchase for most cars in Russia.

As consumers note, a hard plastic casing framing a metal structure with a rubber scraper provides additional pressure on the brushes and presses them tightly against the glass surface. Even on the periphery. Even if stubborn dirt or ice is removed. Of course, Valeo First Covertech also has an annoying nuance. Due to the unreinforced surface of the rubber scraper, it is susceptible to significant deformation, and after 500-600 kilometers it can leave unrefined radial marks. For brushes that cost more than 1000 rubles, this is unforgivable.

Advantages

• good pressing;
• active resistance of the frame to corrosion (thanks to the plastic casing);
• Available on the market in sizes from 35 to 70 centimeters.

Flaws

• the scraper tends to stretch and undergo micro-breaks, leaving behind radial, uncleaned marks;
• high price.

The second line of the rating goes to brushes produced by Denso. Wiper Blade is a real find for those who like really fancy things, the installation of which has a positive effect on the appearance of the car. The massive body element of this kit has smooth curved lines, and the scraper itself is designed in the form of a thin blade for more effective removal of visibility barriers from the windshield.

The main advantage of the Denso Wiper Blade is the complete fit of the brush not only in the center, but also on the periphery, which is often the case with less powerful competitors. The elastic band of the model is made of rubber with graphite coating in order to prevent rapid wear and replacement, which is logical in this case. The cost, as for all normal representatives of hybrids, is consistently high. However, taking into account the ideal performance of the direct function, as well as the important decorative property, every ruble of costs pays off three times.

Advantages

• nice design;
• The scraper of the model is made in the form of a blade, which simplifies the removal of dirt from the glass;
• treating the surface of the rubber scraper with carbon to increase wear resistance;
• Press the brush tightly around the entire perimeter, including the edges.

Flaws

• not detected.

An almost complete ideological analogue of Trico Hybrid is the SPC-10XX brushes from Sparco, created taking into account unique technological innovations. Their strong feature is their effective operation in all weather conditions, regardless of the season and place of use. The reinforced design, coupled with a universal mount, allows the brushes to be installed on most running car models operated in Russia.

In addition to the obvious design advantage, Sparco SPC-10XX does an excellent job of cleaning glass from difficult contaminants, not to mention rain and snow. This is ensured by the positive compliance of the body for pressing on the surface of the glass, without weakening at the points of contact with the elements being removed. The real highlight in this case is that the entire cleaning process occurs absolutely silently - users note that the scrapers operate silently in the vast majority of cases. Of course, such a kit is quite expensive, but in relation to the duration of operation, the purchase turns out to be very profitable.

Advantages

• very high working resource;
• durable and proven design for all-season use;
• correct balance of softness/hardness of the brush scraper;
• silent operation.

Flaws

• not found.

A series of hybrid brushes, the structural features of which are based on the shortcomings and bitter experience of a number of main competitors. Trico Hybrid can be called the most technologically advanced models from the selection, since engineers tried to bring all aspects of design and operation to optimal levels. In particular, special attention was paid to the geometry of the working part and the frame as a whole, and therefore the engineers were able to achieve good edge geometry and tight pressing of the brush to the glass, regardless of the convexity of its surface.

The second positive feature of the Trico Hybrid is its aerodynamic stability, due to the same high-quality processing of the body. The efficiency of glass cleaning does not decrease even when driving at a speed of 180-190 kilometers per hour, which is a good indicator for cars of all brands and models. The scraper part of the brush is made of hard rubber with graphite processing, so the strength indicators are high. And the ergonomics also leave a pleasant impression: according to user reviews, the model does not make a single sound from the moment of installation until the extreme point of operation.

Advantages

• very high-quality cleaning of glass from dirt and visibility barriers (rain, snow, etc.);
• high strength indicators;
• reasonable purchase price;
• Rubber and graphite coating are used as the material for the scraper part;
• high efficiency at speed.

Flaws

• not detected.

A bright series of hybrid brushes from the Heyner company, the advantage of which over others lies in the graphite hardening of the working edge. Thanks to this, the working life of Hybrid Graphit was increased by 50% (relative to conventional models), albeit not without a number of nuances. In particular, users note that the edges are pressed quite poorly, which is why cleaning the glass at the periphery suffers greatly. But in the middle (at the attachment point) the brushes rub perfectly - so much so that they can rid the windshield of stubborn dirt.

In addition to the positive design features, one can also highlight the abnormally low price: these hybrid brushes cost less than some frame (considered the cheapest in the segment) models. Based on the totality of its characteristics, Heyner Hybrid Graphit definitely deserves a place among the best, however, for some flaws in cleaning windshields, cars can only count on fifth place.

Advantages

• very low price for a hybrid model;
• high level of durability;
• universal fastening element;
• graphite coating of the scraper part increases the strength characteristics.

Flaws

• The rigidity of the hybrid brushes at the edges is not high enough - as a result, unsatisfactory cleaning of the glass is possible.

Hybrid brushes for the winter season, actively recommended for installation by domestic users. They are a high-quality replica of many factory models, combining the features of typical frames and the positive aspects of frameless models. The tinder is good, but at the “after installation” stage they can creak a little.

According to experts, Ween Shimo are potentially very durable, but during operation you should not subject them to excessive loads (that is, force them to remove hard icing, frozen dirt, etc. from the glass). Another nuance lies in the fastening mechanism. Slightly convex, it also affects the fit of the brush, so that it also begins to protrude above the hood lid. Therefore, if the aesthetic moment is no less important for you, take this into account when choosing. Otherwise, the model is positioned as quite niche, with a favorable price for the hybrid segment.

Advantages

• universal mount;
• low price in the segment;
• optimal contact (at least at first) of the brush with the glass;
• acceptable quality of the working surface and frame.

Flaws

• Creaks are observed in the first phase of use (after installation).

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The most common question is which brushes are better, framed or frameless? There is no clear answer to this question. The rating included both those and others. In addition, the list of the best includes hybrid models. They all have their advantages and disadvantages.

Windshield wiper blades are one of the most frequently changed consumables in a car: you often have to install new ones even on cars that have just left the showroom; on many "state-owned" cars, standard wipers are of little satisfaction to drivers. Well, let's try to figure out how this simple item works and on what basis you need to choose the best set of wipers.

Modern brushes were invented almost a hundred years ago - in 1923. Since then, their design has changed little: the working element is an elastic strip with a sharp edge, secured in an elastic bracket for attaching to the leash. The elasticity of the brush is its main quality, which directly affects the cleaning efficiency, since when moving, the edge of the brush should fit as tightly as possible to the curved surface of the glass.

Depending on the type of suspension in the bracket, brushes are divided into:

• Frame- in them the elastic element is the supporting structure itself. The brush frame connects to the cleaning plate at several points, tending to bend it. Hence the main disadvantage of frame brushes: they fit most tightly to the glass at the points of connection with the frame.
• Frameless Brushes use a metal plate cast into the brush itself as an elastic element. Technologically, their production is more complicated and more expensive, but this is justified by a much better fit and, accordingly, efficient operation. A distinctive feature of frameless brushes is their laconic appearance: the fastening is located on the plastic frame of the brush itself.
• Hybrid brushes have both a supporting frame and an additional elastic element in the plate. For glass with a large curvature of the surface, they are perhaps the best choice. They can be easily distinguished by the plastic casing that covers the frame and at the same time serves as an aerodynamic element.

The brush itself can be made from a wide variety of materials, the requirements for which are simple: elasticity, low coefficient of friction (this will ensure not only the absence of squeaking, but also reduce abrasion of the edge), resistance to de-icing agents, solvents (the main component of the washer is isopropyl alcohol ) and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The rubber originally used for this is not very suitable for the specified parameters - in the cold it becomes harder, which is especially sensitive for frame brushes, it cracks quickly, and due to the high coefficient of friction it is prone to squeaking. Modern silicone-based materials make it possible to create better windshield wiper blades that can work both in summer and in severe frost.

When choosing brushes, you should take into account the operating characteristics of the car - in the summer, budget frame brushes will be no less effective than premium-segment hybrid models. But in the northern regions, in cities where deicing agents are actively used, the quality of the brush material and its design require more careful attention: here expensive “hybrids” clearly win in all respects.