Is Vehicle Rain Repellent Effective?
2 Answers
Vehicle rain repellent is effective. After spraying the repellent on the glass, rainwater will quickly flow off without forming a water film, which can improve driving safety during heavy rain. The principle of rain repellent is simple: after spraying it on the glass, a hydrophobic film forms on the surface, causing water to flow off quickly. Rain repellent contains silicone and fluorine-based organic compounds, which repel water, reducing the contact area between water droplets and the glass, making the droplets easier to be blown away by the wind. Rain repellent can also be applied to the exterior rearview mirrors, ensuring clear visibility even during heavy rain.
As a driver who frequently takes long highway trips, visibility during the rainy season is particularly troublesome. Rain repellent does work effectively, especially during heavy rain when you can clearly see water droplets sliding off faster, preventing the blurry buildup that happens on untreated glass. I remember a recent drive on the Jinggang'ao Expressway when I suddenly encountered a downpour—the windshield treated with rain repellent remained largely clear, far outperforming wipers alone. However, proper application is key: the glass must be thoroughly cleaned before each treatment to avoid oil film interference. The effect typically lasts about two weeks, but during periods of frequent heavy rain, I usually reapply weekly. Using it in combination with wipers delivers the best results, significantly easing the stress of driving in rainy conditions.
