Are dealership wipers better than those you can buy at an auto parts store? This is a question that many drivers ask themselves when it comes time to replace their windshield wipers. In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of both dealership and aftermarket wipers to help you make an informed decision.
Dealership wipers are typically more expensive than aftermarket wipers, but they are also made to the exact specifications of your vehicle. This means that they will fit perfectly and will provide the best possible wiping performance. Aftermarket wipers, on the other hand, are not made to the same specifications as dealership wipers. This means that they may not fit as well or provide the same level of wiping performance.
Change or not?
To properly assess whether it is necessary to change or not the windshield wipers on your car, you must first and foremost pay attention to how they work and what are the signs of wear and tear that would require their immediate replacement. Furthermore, you must consider the different types of wipers that are available and what options would be best suited to your needs and the overall vehicle.
The wear and tear of the wiper blades will depend on the frequency of use, the amount of time the car spends parked outside and exposed to the elements, and the harshness of the climate in your area of residence.
If the wipers have become worn or damaged, or if they begin to leave streaks or miss spots on the windshield, it is high time to have them replaced. You should also take into account the season. Spring and fall are the seasons when your wipers will be the most used, and therefore it is more likely that they will deteriorate faster. For this reason, it is advisable to check the status of your wipers at the beginning of each of these two seasons.
Finally, it is also very important to pay attention to the type of vehicle you have. Some vehicles require special types of wipers, such as those with sensors or heated blades. If you are not sure what type of wipers are right for your vehicle, you can consult your owner's manual or ask a mechanic.
Know your car
If you're like most people, you probably don't give much thought to your car's wipers until they stop working. But did you know that your wipers are one of the most important safety features on your car? They help you to see clearly in bad weather, and they can help you to avoid accidents. That's why it's important to know your car's wipers and to make sure that they're always in good working order.
There are a few things you can do to keep your wipers in good condition. First, make sure that you clean them regularly. Dirt and grime can build up on the blades and cause them to streak or skip. You can clean your wipers with a mild soap and water solution. Second, check the blades for wear and tear. If the blades are cracked or torn, they won't be able to clean your windshield effectively. You should replace your wiper blades every six months to a year.
Finally, make sure that your wipers are properly adjusted. If the wipers are not adjusted correctly, they may not be able to clear the entire windshield. You can adjust the wipers yourself or you can take your car to a mechanic to have them adjusted.
DIY wiper blade replacement
DIY wiper blade replacement, as the name suggests, is a do-it-yourself task where you replace your worn-out wiper blades with new ones. It's a relatively simple and inexpensive car maintenance task that can be done in just a few minutes. While some people prefer to have their wiper blades replaced by a professional, DIY wiper blade replacement is a great way to save money and get the job done right.
The first step in DIY wiper blade replacement is to gather the necessary materials. You will need a new set of wiper blades, a clean rag, and a pair of pliers or a wrench. Once you have your materials, you can begin the replacement process. Start by lifting the wiper arm away from the windshield. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you don't want to damage the arm.
Once the wiper arm is lifted, you can remove the old wiper blade by sliding it out of the arm. Be sure to hold onto the wiper blade firmly, as it may be slippery. Once the old wiper blade is removed, you can insert the new wiper blade into the arm. Make sure that the blade is securely in place, then lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.
Wiper blade FAQs
What type of wiper blades are best? This is a question that many drivers ask themselves, especially when they are experiencing problems with their current wiper blades. There are many different types of wiper blades on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
One of the most popular types of wiper blades is the conventional wiper blade. These blades are made of a metal frame with a rubber squeegee attached to it. Conventional wiper blades are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, but they can be noisy and can wear out quickly.
Another type of wiper blade is the beam wiper blade. Beam wiper blades are made of a single piece of metal with a rubber squeegee attached to it. Beam wiper blades are more expensive than conventional wiper blades, but they are also quieter and can last longer.
Finally, there are hybrid wiper blades. Hybrid wiper blades combine the features of conventional wiper blades and beam wiper blades. Hybrid wiper blades are made of a metal frame with a rubber squeegee attached to it, but the frame is covered with a plastic cover. Hybrid wiper blades are more expensive than conventional wiper blades, but they are also quieter and can last longer.
Bad wiper blades
One of the most important safety features on your car is your windshield wipers. They help you see clearly when it's raining, snowing, or sleeting. But if your wiper blades are bad, they can actually make it more difficult to see, which can be dangerous.
There are a few signs that your wiper blades need to be replaced. One sign is if they're streaking or chattering when you use them. Another sign is if they're not wiping away all of the water or snow from your windshield. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to replace your wiper blades.
You can replace your wiper blades yourself, or you can have them replaced at a dealership. If you replace them yourself, be sure to get the right size blades for your car. You can find the right size blades in your car's owner's manual or by using a wiper blade sizing chart.
Signs of bad wiper blades
The rubber blades become hardened and less effective at wiping water away. This can cause streaks and smears on your windshield, making it difficult to see clearly.
The metal frame of the blades can become rusty or corroded. This can prevent the blades from moving smoothly across the windshield, and can also cause them to squeak or chatter.
The blades may start to lose their shape. This can cause them to skip over areas of the windshield, leaving streaks and smears behind.
The blades may become detached from the wiper arms. This can be dangerous, as it can prevent you from seeing clearly while driving.
Wiper blade replacement cost
Labor costs for replacing your wiper blades will vary depending on the make and model of your car.
The cost of a basic wiper blade replacement at an auto repair shop can typically range from $15 to $30, while a dealership may charge between $25 and $50 for the same service.
If your vehicle has more specialized wiper blades, such as aerodynamic or beam-style blades, the cost of replacement may be slightly higher.
OEM vs aftermarket wiper blades
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wiper blades are designed and manufactured to the exact specifications of your vehicle. They are made from high-quality materials and are engineered to provide optimal performance in all weather conditions. Aftermarket wiper blades, on the other hand, are made by third-party manufacturers and may not meet the same quality standards as OEM blades.
OEM wiper blades are typically more expensive than aftermarket blades, but they are also more durable and reliable. They are less likely to streak or chatter, and they will last longer. Aftermarket wiper blades may be cheaper, but they may not perform as well or last as long as OEM blades.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of wiper blade is right for you is to consider your budget and your needs. If you want the best possible performance and durability, OEM wiper blades are the best choice. If you are on a budget, aftermarket wiper blades may be a good option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which windshields are more expensive?
Dealership windshield wipers tend to be more expensive than aftermarket windshield wipers.
What are the benefits of dealership windshields?
Dealership windshield wipers are made from high-quality materials and are designed to perform well in all weather conditions. They also tend to come with a warranty, so you can be sure that you're getting a quality product.
Can I install dealership windshields myself?
Yes, you can install dealership windshield wipers yourself. However, it's important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that they are installed correctly.
What is the average lifespan of a windshield?
The average lifespan of a windshield is about 5 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of windshield, the climate, and how well it is maintained.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quality of dealership wipers can vary greatly. Some dealerships may offer high-quality wipers that are worth the investment, while others may sell inferior wipers that are not worth the price. It is important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. You should also consider your own needs and budget when making a decision. If you are looking for the best possible wipers, you may be willing to pay more for dealership wipers. However, if you are on a budget, there are many affordable options available that will still provide you with good performance.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy dealership wipers is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. The best way to decide is to weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that is right for you.