What are the disadvantages of coated wiper blades?
3 Answers
The drawback of coated wiper blades is that after using them, silicon elements combine with dust in the air and oxidize, creating a mixture that adheres to the glass surface and is difficult to remove. The benefits of coated wiper blades are: during rainy weather, they form a special protective film on the windshield containing lubricating and water-repellent components, ensuring clearer visibility and effectively removing rainwater from the glass in a timely manner. More details are as follows: 1. Definition: Coated wiper blades are a new type of wiper that forms a water-repellent film on the windshield, causing rainwater to bead up and roll off automatically, ensuring clear visibility for drivers in rainy conditions. Additionally, the silicone components in coated wiper blades enhance UV resistance, making them durable over long periods. 2. Material: The metal frame of coated wiper blades is made of the same material as Swiss watch chains, with a multi-layer surface treatment that prevents deformation even after prolonged use. The scientifically distributed pivot points ensure even pressure distribution across the entire rubber strip, reducing wear and improving the durability of the coated wiper blades. Even in light rain, coated wiper blades operate quietly without skipping or chattering.
Coated wiper blades may sound high-tech, but they actually come with quite a few issues. Having driven for over a decade, I've noticed their coating wears out exceptionally easily. Initially, the wipers glide smoothly, but they can't even last through one rainy season before starting to drag and fail to clear water properly. In heavy rain or cold weather, the surface layer can even freeze or peel, leaving streaks on the windshield that directly compromise driving safety. Maintenance is also a hassle—you can't just use any ordinary cleaning solution to wipe them, or the coating will degrade faster, causing rainwater mixed with dust to stick to the glass and make it even dirtier. Cost-wise, they're not economical either; a set can cost hundreds, while regular wipers solve the same problem for just a few dozen. I've since switched to silicone wipers—more durable, hassle-free, and cost-effective—no more fussing over fancy gimmicks.
As someone who enjoys trying out new gadgets, I've tested coated wiper blades, and their drawbacks are quite noticeable. While the surface coating allows for smoother wiping, the technology isn't mature yet—after some use, it wears down and starts making noise, with squeaking sounds that are particularly irritating, especially at high speeds with strong wind pressure. Compatibility with car windshields is also poor; while it works fine on new windshields, minor scratches on older ones render the coating ineffective, leaving streaks and water films. The price is even more of a rip-off, costing twice as much as standard blades but with a shorter lifespan, making frequent replacements not worth it. In the long run, upgrading to an automatic rain-sensing wiper system is a better choice—more expensive but far more stable and reliable. I recommend not blindly trusting advertisements and trying them out on a small scale before making a decision.
