Good Wipers Aren’t Pricey but Most Fade Fast

CR November '08 Cover YONKERS, NY — Consumer Reports' latest tests of 15 windshield wipers reveals that drivers don’t need to spend a lot of money to get good wiper performance, but they might need to replace them every six months or so.

Three of the top four wipers were among the least expensive: The top-rated Valeo 600 series ($9, 18-inch; $15, 24-inch); the Anco 31 Series ($7, 18-inch; $10, 24-inch); and the Michelin Rainforce ($7, 18-inch; $7, 24-inch.)

CR found that all of the tested wipers provided “Very Good” or “Excellent” performance when new, but most quickly degrade after six to nine months of regular use. The RainX Latitude ($17, 18-inch, $21, 24-inch) was the only wiper that began with very good performance and maintained that level through six months.

CR tested the wipers on 185 staffers’ cars. The tested wipers included six beam-blade models, a relatively new design. Unlike conventional wipers, beam blades have no external frames. As a result, they are promoted as providing more uniform pressure on today’s curved windshields and therefore better wiping performance.

Beam blades usually cost more than conventional wipers, but CR's experts didn’t see a notable advantage in regular use. The beam-blade model that rated highest was the RainX Latitude.

“Drivers should replace their wipers every six to twelve months,” said Rik Paul, automotive editor, Consumer Reports. “Check your owner’s manual for the correct size and installation method.”

The full windshield wiper ratings are featured in the November issue of Consumer Reports, on sale October 7 and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

About Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education, and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.

© 2008 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports® magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.