Anco Windshield Wiper Blades FAQ's
How often should I change my wiper blades?
Windshield wipers should be replaced at least every six months. Fundamental driving safety relies on the driver's ability to see the road clearly. When vision is impaired, it is difficult to see impending hazards in time to react. Wipers that do not work are dangerous. At ANCO, your safety is important to us.
What are some performance problems that may occur, indicating that my blades need to be replaced?
Smearing or streaking: Sections of windshield are missed as the blade passes over it. Chattering: Blade moves irregularly across the windshield surface, making a chattering noise as it "hobbles" across the glass. Hazing: Oil-like film spreads across the windshield, causing glare, usually a result of road grime contamination to the rubber.Beading: Appears as a collection of water droplets on the windshield after the blade passes over.Windlift: Blade "lifts" off the windshield and loses full or partial contact with the glass, usually happening at highway speeds.
What indicators would suggest that a blade is either worn, defective or of poor quality
Cracked rubber: Look for splits and slashes on the rubber. Contaminated rubber: Result of road grime and chemicals adhering to the rubber element, causing a hazy film on the windshield. Torn rubber: Rubber element has pulled away from its supporting structure, causing "slapping" noise to occur. Park set rubber: The rubber element has lost its flexibility and no longer "flips" over when it begins the downstroke. Abraded rubber: Worn, ragged edges on the element. Damaged superstructure: Metal or plastic elements of the wiper arm, blade or refill is either bent or cracked.
What is the difference between a wiper blade and a wiper refill?
A wiper blade includes the metal, metal and plastic or plastic superstructure, as well as the rubber wiping element*. It is sold as a unit and attaches to the wiper arm. A refill is the rubber element that attaches to the superstructure. * The rubber wiping element is what squeegees the water off of your car, making contact with your windshield.
Should I choose blades or refills?
Most people replace the entire wiper blade. It is quick and easy, and there is no need to worry about the refill not fitting the existing blade. Replacing the entire blade is also more aesthetically pleasing. For some consumers, refills are the replacement method of choice. This usually requires a little more technical ability. You will need to know if the blade you are refilling is original equipment or aftermarket product. If it is aftermarket, you will need to know the manufacturer and often times the model. ANCO products are consumer friendly for fast, easy installation.
Do I replace both blades at the same time?
Yes, we advise replacing both blades at the same time. Like a light bulb, wiper blades have a limited life span. Changing both simultaneously keeps maintenance time to a minimum.
How do I know what blades fit my car?
Wiper blades are primarily a self-service item. Catalogs or interactive computers are usually located at the display. Look up the make, model and year of your vehicle in order to identify the part number that you need. If more assistance is need please contact us.
Can I install the wiper blades myself?
Of course. Most people do. ANCO wiper blades fit 98 percent of vehicles right out of the box. Our new, easy-to-follow instructions make it possible for even the do-it-yourself novice to install them in seconds. At ANCO, our highly skilled engineers have made it possible for you to install a wiper blade without an engineering degree. Try it and let us know what you think. Click here for installation instructions.
I have had problems in the past with my blades lifting off of my windshield? What do you suggest?
Try our high performance AeroVantage wiper blade. With its vented bridge and sleek aerodynamic design, it's engineered for today's sloping windshields and faster highway speeds. It's the blade the beats the wind.
The winters where I live are so harsh. I often have a problem with icy build-up on my blades. What do you suggest?
ANCO Winter Wiper Blades are manufactured with a super strong rubber boot that prevents ice, snow and slush from building up on the structure itself. They feature a heavy-gauge steel bridge that resists abuse. Our winter blades out-perform all competitors in laboratory testing and are available in eight lengths - no one offers more. After the winter is over, you can return to your normal blades.
I live in a climate with little rainfall and lots of sun. My blades tend to harden and the rubber cracks. What can I do to prevent this from happening?
Although you do not use your blades very often, they still need to be inspected and replaced at six-month intervals. Choose a blade manufactured with a high quality rubber element. Patented ANCO DuraKlearTM rubber features a natural, no-wax formula that will offer protection from UV, ozone, air pollution and road grime. You'll get a razor sharp wiping edge and streak-free performance.