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The Best Windshield Wipers

Last updated on January 21, 2024
 

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Best Windshield Wiper

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You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your windshield wipers until they need to be replaced one day. As long as they’re operating efficiently and relatively quietly, there’s no need to focus on them. But over time, any set of windshield wipers will begin to wear down, which means it’s time to replace them. You don’t have to pay a fortune for a mechanic to take care of it. In fact, most windshield wipers can be easily switched out by even the most novice auto-repair person.

When buying windshield wipers, it’s important to make compatibility a top priority. However, if you walk into an auto parts store and name your vehicle model, chances are you’ll still have a wide range of options. Manufacturers know they can make more money by designing wipers that will work with as many common vehicle types as possible. But you’ll still find that some wiper arms simply aren’t compatible with all blades.

Anyone who has ever owned a car knows how annoying streaks can be. Grime is usually the culprit in that area, but some wiper blades are more resistant to streaks than others. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that the more you spend, the more likely you’ll be to get a streak-free experience. In fact, some budget wipers do just as well as high-priced wipers in this area.

In addition to compatibility with your own vehicle, it’s important to consider the weather where you live. If you live in an area prone to wintry precipitation, keep that in mind while you’re shopping. Some wipers can handle ice and snow better than others. But even if you live in a warm climate, you’ll need a good pair of wiper blades if you get an overabundance of rain each year. Look for durability unless you want to change your wipers multiple times each year.

Our Picks For The Top Windshield Wipers

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

EMITHSUN Quick Install Anti-Oxidation Windshield Wipers

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

EMITHSUN

Quick Install Anti-Oxidation Windshield Wipers

Made using a natural rubber and an elastic stainless steel blade, this windshield wiper can be bent backward and still not break. It's longer and thicker than other models, lasting over 6 months before needing a replacement. The wiper even installs in just four quick steps.

Overall Take

Thicker Than MostThis windshield wiper fits both U and J-hook arms.

 Runner Up

MOTIUM Rubber & Steel Aerodynamic Windshield Wipers

MOTIUM

Rubber & Steel Aerodynamic Windshield Wipers

Keep your vision clear on stormy days with this reliable windshield wiper set. The wipers are designed to fit J-hook arms and have an aerodynamic shape. They also do an excellent job of preventing the build up of dirt and debris.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly PickThis set of windshield wipers has an economical price tag.

 We Also Like

Rain-X 5079281-2 Latitude Universal Fit Windshield Wiper

Rain-X

Latitude Universal Fit Windshield Wiper

Not only does this set of windshield wipers move rain out of your view, but it also applies a repellent to keep the rain away. Users will love that the synthetic blend rubber squeegee outperforms other wipers on the market. Of course, the aerodynamic design is also a plus, as it reduces noise and wind lift.

Overall Take

All-Weather PerformanceThis windshield wiper is designed to fit 96% of all vehicles.

 Strong Contender

Bosch ICON Front Windshield Wiper Blade

Bosch

ICON Front Windshield Wiper Blade

The unique bracketless design of this windshield wiper puts it above many others in durability and performance. However, this design also means that it doesn't work with all vehicles, so check for compatibility before buying. If you live in an area prone to wintry weather, this option will capably tackle ice and snow.

Overall Take

Bracketless WipersA unique bracketless design that holds up in all sorts of weather conditions.

What to Look For

  • Before you start shopping for windshield wiper blades, you need to consult your vehicle’s manual to find out exactly the type you need. Most windshield wipers come in different sizes, so research what you need so that you can choose the right option during checkout. Some wipers, for instance, come in sizes from 15 inches to 29 inches, while others offer blade sizes from 12 inches to 26 inches.
  • In addition to size, you’ll also need to take a quick look at the design. The Bosch ICON Wiper Blade’s arm hook adapters aren’t compatible with all types of vehicles. Bosch has a compatibility checker on its website.
  • If it is compatible with your vehicle, you may want to look into the Bosch ICON Wiper Blade, which has won awards for its bracketless beam design. This feature eliminates the brackets and hinges typically seen with wiper blades, bringing a performance you won’t get with competitors.
  • Some options use silicone-treated blades to provide efficient, smooth and, most importantly, quiet wiping. Thanks to their unique design, you also won’t see streaks.
  • With the aerodynamic design of the Rain-X 2-IN-1 Water Repellency Wiper Blades, you get a reduction of all that debris that can collect around the wiper blade, which also makes each wipe more efficient.
  • Not every wiper is designed to stand up to wintry weather. The Bosch ICON Wiper Blade’s unique design helps it comfortably tackle frozen precipitation. By eliminating the brackets and hinges, you also reduce the number of things that are most likely to snap under the heavy weight of ice and snow. The Rain-X 2-IN-1 Water Repellency Wiper Blades can stand up to heavy rain and winter weather, but you may find they won’t be quite as smooth in those conditions, especially after they have some wear on them.
  • Noisy wipers can be extremely annoying, especially on long, rainy drives. The Bosch ICON Wiper Blade features silent operation throughout its lifetime.
  • Wipers can get plenty of wear over the course of a year. You’ll find that some last longer than others. The Bosch ICON Wiper Blade impresses with its durability, often lasting for a year or longer, depending on frequency of use. Even with hundreds of hours of ozone exposure, these wipers have resisted cracking.
  • If you’ve ever installed wiper blades, you probably know some can be easier to maneuver than others. Some silicone options are easy to install. The Bosch ICON Wiper Blade’s design makes installation more difficult than other wipers. However, some auto parts shops will replace your wiper blades for free as long as you purchase them there. If you want wipers that are usually difficult to install, this may be an alternative to doing it yourself.
  • Although some wipers are more expensive than others, you’ll find many fall within the same price range. Either way, you’re sure to find one to fit within your budget.

More to Explore

The idea for windshield wipers came from a southern woman visiting New York on an icy winter day. Mary Anderson was riding a streetcar when she noticed that the driver had to occasionally stop to wipe sleet and snow off the windshield. Arriving home, she began working on a device to keep windshields clear. In 1903, she filed for a patent for her invention. Unfortunately, they didn’t become standard on motorized vehicles until the 1940s, at which point Anderson’s patent had expired.

The inventor of the intermittent windshield wiper, Robert Kearns, faced similar issues when Ford disregarded his patents and added the feature to their own vehicles. He battled car manufacturers for decades before finally being awarded $30 million from Chrysler. After his death, his story was finally told, recognizing him as the inventor of the technology, in the movie “Flash of Genius.”

More to explore