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Maintaining clear visibility is by far the most important aspect of driving in inclement weather conditions. Whether it’s raining or snowing heavily, what you need is a clear view of the road ahead. This is where having a great set of windshield wipers comes in handy. So let’s take a look at some of the best windshield wipers available online.
Types of windshield wipers
There are broadly three kinds of windshield wipers available.
- Conventional: These were once common on most cars, though they are now being replaced with the beam type. The rubber blade is fixed in an articulating metal or plastic frame, and has multiple contact points between the rubber and windshield’s glass surface. These are the most affordable.
- Beam type: Made of one single piece of rubber, these windshield wipers sit along the curvature of the windshield, in effect giving them infinite contact points. And since there is no metal frame holding the rubber, there’s no ice build-up in the wipers during winters. These are more expensive than the older, conventional wiper designs.
- Hybrid: This type of windshield wiper provides the best of both worlds. There is a pivoting frame to press the wiper against the windshield, which is covered by a rubber shell. These are a good compromise, and are priced between conventional and beam type.
How to buy the right windshield wipers
Before you go ahead and buy windshield wipers, do the following:
1. Find out the length of the wipers on your car, and remember that the driver’s side wiper may be longer than the one on the passenger side. You can either measure them with a tape measure, or refer to your owner’s manual for the correct size.
2. Decide which type you prefer (please refer to the three kinds listed above).
Top-rated windshield wiper on Amazon
Bosch Clear Advantage
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Total Reviews: 14,166
Price: CDN$13.04
The manufacturer claims these wipers have a precision-tensioned steel spring that ensures even pressure across the wiper’s length, while the aerodynamic design ensures stability. The rubber material is graphite-treated, which reduces friction and noise.
Buy here:Amazon.ca
Top-rated windshield wiper on Walmart
Rain-X Weatherbeater
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Total Reviews: 35
Price: CDN$12.97
These windshield wipers claim to give a smooth, streak-free wipe thanks to the embedded “friction reducers.” The wiper has a galvanized steel frame that isn’t prone to rusting, while the squeegee, made of natural rubber, is resistant to cracking and tearing.
Buy here: Walmart.ca
Top-rated windshield wiper on Canadian Tire
Bosch Icon
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Total Reviews: 2246
Price: From CDN$29.99
These windshield wipers are claimed to have a 40% longer life thanks to an “FX dual rubber compound.” The manufacturer also claims the dual precision-tensioned springs in the wiper blades afford even pressure along the length. An asymmetrical wind spoiler supposedly enhances stability at high speeds.
Buy here: Canadian Tire
How to install windshield wipers
1. Pull the wiper up and away, and place a cloth along the bottom of the windshield to prevent cracking in case the wiper arm falls on the glass.
2. Look for the release tab either on top of or under the wiper blade, depending on the type of mount. It also helps to pull or push the wiper to free it from the hook at the end of the arm.
3. To mount a new wiper blade, line it up with the hook on the wiper arm and ensure the hook sits inside the opening on the blade.
4. Depending on the design of the mount, you will either hear a click! sound, or will have to press the tab to secure the wiper.
5. Gently tug at the wiper to ensure it fits the arm properly.
6. Now test the new wipers by turning on the wiper switch inside the car.
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