Most motorists don’t think about their windshield wiper blades until they get caught in a rainstorm and realize they can’t see, yet these cheap, often-forgotten parts are as important as tires and bulbs. Changing them takes a few minutes and requires no special tools. How often you should replace your wiper blades depends largely on the climate you drive in, but once or twice a year is a good rule of thumb for the average driver. Of course, your mileage may vary (literally); someone commuting in Seattle could spend more on wiper blades than someone living in Phoenix.
Choices are a dime a dozen when it comes to wiper blades, so we’ve selected the best ones available.
Before you buy
What type do you prefer?
There are several types of wiper blades. The ones we’re familiar with are the traditional, bracket-type ones made up of a stiff metal frame and a rubber insert. They’ve equipped nearly every car made in the last 50 years. They’re durable, universal, and as simple as it gets. They’re also basic and affordable.
The popularity of beam-type blades has increased in recent years. Instead of the aforementioned metal frame, these units consist of a thick strip of rubber supported by a flexible metal rod. This is a newer design that gives you a clearer view of the road ahead because it distributes pressure more evenly.
There are also hybrid blades, which are a combination of the beam and bracket types. Each type of blade has its own set of pros and cons. For example, beam-type blades are better at clearing snow and ice, but they don’t do as well as standard blades in the mud.
Size
Size matters when you’re shopping for wiper blades. Generally, it’s best not to deviate from your car’s factory specifications. This is relatively straightforward, but keep in mind that some newer cars have staggered wiper lengths, meaning one side is longer than the other. Check your owner’s manual if you’re not sure what to buy.
Price
You get what you pay for when you’re shopping for wiper blades. Cheaper units often don’t last very long and tend to streak faster if they’re exposed to a lot of debris and aren’t cleaned often. Beam-type blades last longer and tend to be more effective. The difference is that standard blades cost about $5 each, while more expensive models sometimes sell for over $30, meaning you’ll need to spend $60 on a pair.
Our picks
Bosch ICON Wiper Blades
Type: Beam
Available lengths: 13-28 inches
Price: Starting at $24 each; price increases by size
You’ve seen these blades in action if you’ve been in a late-model Audi, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz during a rainstorm. They’re among the best beam-type blades available, users love them for their longevity and their performance, and they’re priced accordingly. Bosch claims they last up to 40% longer than other blades.
AERO Premium All-Season Wipers
Type: Beam
Available lengths: 12-28 inches
Price: Starting at $17 for a set of two; price increases by size
AERO’s beam-type blades are cheaper than the ones made by Bosch. They’re an excellent value, and they’re found on a growing number of new cars, but users noted they don’t last quite as long as Bosch’s blades. The trade-off is that they come with a six-month warranty.
Michelin Stealth Ultra Windshield Wiper Blade with Smart Technology
Type: Hybrid
Available lengths: 16-28 inches
Price: Starting at $14 each; price increases by size
Michelin is better known for its tires and its travel guides than for its wiper blades, but the hybrid Stealth model is highly recommended. It features the company’s unique SmartFlex design, which ensures it adapts to a wide variety of windshields, and its hybrid design makes it resistant to debris, ice, and snow.
Valeo 900 Series
Type: Beam
Available lengths: 15-29 inches
Price: Starting at $17 each; price increases by size
Valeo’s 900 is a beam-type blade known for its exceptional longevity. The company notes there are no exposed metal parts, so its wiper is highly resistant to ice, snow, and dust. It’s also quieter than many beam-type blades, and it fits a long list of cars without requiring a special adapter.
ANCO 31-Series
Type: Bracket
Available lengths: 10-28 inches
Price: Starting at $7 each; price increases by size
If you need something quick, cheap, and excellent, ANCO’s 31-Series is one of the top-recommended bracket-type blades available online. These blades are universal, they’re available in a variety of sizes, and they’re difficult to beat in the bang-for-the-buck department.
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