Silicone and rubber wiper blades: what drivers should know

A wiper blade is doing its job when you barely notice it. Streaks, chatter and missed areas become obvious in heavy rain, when clear glass matters most.

Rubber and silicone blades

Both materials are sold in several designs and quality levels. Fit, frame design and the condition of the windscreen can matter as much as the material printed on the package.

Signs the blades need attention

Look for splitting edges, permanent bends, skipping, noise or a film left on the glass. First clean the windscreen and blade edge because dirt can cause similar symptoms.

Choose the correct fit

Use the vehicle application guide and check the attachment type. Driver and passenger sides may use different lengths. A blade that is too long can hit trim or the other blade.

Care in Malaysian weather

Heat, road film and frequent rain are hard on wiper rubber. Clean the glass regularly and avoid running dry blades across dusty glass.

Do not ignore washer performance

Clear visibility also depends on washer fluid, spray nozzles and the windscreen surface. Fix blocked jets or contaminated glass instead of expecting a new blade to solve every problem.