What to consider when buying a windshield wiper

There are different types of windshield wipers, and the shapes can vary, even for the same car model. It is always good to look at the user manuals, take measurements of the blade, and then shop for it.

• Do not go by only by price: A high price does not guarantee better quality. Most expensive wipers are marketed with promises of great performance. All windshield wipers perform well when they are installed initially, but performance drops after six months, even for the most expensive ones.

• Choose the fit: According to experts, the best wiper blade is the one which fits your car well. New vehicles will have greater curves in the windshields, which mean that the wiper blade may not be able to reach each and every part of the windshield, and may miss out on the dirt in some places. If you are buying a windshield wiper online, you should always verify the proper size, because the wiper blade size finder may not be accurate.

• Check the type of wiper blade used: Almost all new cars come with beam-style wiper blades. When buying a new windshield wiper, choose a suitable replacement, because a traditional bracket-style wiper blade will not fit well in place of a beam-style wiper.

• Check the warranty: Rubber windshield wipers do not come with warranties, and even if they have one, it really does not help, as most wipers tend to wear out after six months of use. However, if you are buying a high-priced silicone wiper, they may come with a one-year warranty.