Maintaining a clear view while driving is critical, especially in bad weather. Windshield wipers are a key part of this, and over time, their rubber components wear out, causing streaking, screeching, and poor visibility. Traditionally, many drivers opt for wiper refills to replace the worn out rubber parts of their blades. However, this solution has its challenges, especially when compared to the modern, hassle-free service offered by Wipers Direct. The wiper refills are cheap but also take a heap of time to install and usually only come in sizes up to 28 inches.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of buying and fitting wiper refills, but more importantly, we’ll explain why replacing the entire blade through Wipers Direct is a superior, more efficient choice for maintaining your wipers and ensuring a safer driving experience.
Why You Should Consider Wipers Direct Wiper Blades Instead of Refills
While wiper refills can seem like a cost-effective solution, they come with several drawbacks. The process of finding the correct size and width can be cumbersome, and the fitting process itself is time-consuming. Worse still, the technology behind wiper refills is outdated. Refills often don’t perform well in challenging weather conditions, wear out quickly, and need to be replaced frequently (especially in Australia). Also the frames that hold the wiper refills are prone to rusting and becoming dry under the Aussie sun.
That’s where Wipers Direct high performance aerodynamic wiper blades come in. These high-quality blades are made with modern materials, such as Teflon and graphite, for a smooth, streak-free wipe every time. What’s more, Wipers Direct makes buying replacement blades easier than ever. Simply enter your vehicle’s details on their website, and you’ll receive perfectly fitted wiper blades that are designed specifically for your ca, right to your door. Unlike with refills, there’s no measuring or struggling with installation.
Step-by-Step Guide: Buying the Right Wiper Refills vs. Wiper Blades
First, let’s go over how to purchase and fit wiper refills. Then, we’ll compare this with the simpler, faster process of purchasing and installing Wipers Direct wiper blades.
Step 1 – Measure Your Wiper Blades for Refills
If you’re set on using refills, the first step is to measure the length and width of your current wiper blades. This is crucial to ensure the correct fit.
- Length: Measure from one end of the wiper blade to the other. The driver and passenger sides typically have different lengths, so measure both.
- Width: This is the space between the metal claws that hold the rubber refill.
If you can’t find an exact match, you may need to buy a refill slightly longer than needed and trim it to fit. However, if the width doesn’t match, the refill won’t sit properly in the frame, which could damage the wiper or windshield.
Step 2 – Disengage the Wiper Blade from the Wiper Arm
To make the process easier and reduce the risk of scratching your windshield, it’s best to remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm before replacing the refill.
- Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
- Rotate the wiper blade to a right angle to the wiper arm.
- Press the tab or clip that holds the blade in place and slide the blade off the arm.
Some vehicles may have a small retaining clip that requires a flat head screwdriver to release.
Step 3 – Remove the Old Wiper Refill
Once the blade is disconnected from the arm, it’s time to remove the old rubber refill.
- Use pliers to press the metal clip at the end of the refill.
- Slide the rubber refill out of the wiper frame.
- Be sure to save the metal rails, as you’ll need them for the new refill.
Step 4 – Insert the New Wiper Refill
To install the new refill, start by reinserting the metal rails into the new rubber strip. Then, slide the refill back into the wiper frame, making sure it fits tightly under the blade claws.
- If the refill is too long, cut off the excess rubber with scissors or a knife.
- Secure the refill by pushing it under the final retaining clip.
Step 5 – Reinstall the Wiper Blade
Once the new refill is in place, reattach the blade to the wiper arm. Make sure it clicks firmly into place. Lower the arm back onto the windshield and test the wipers by turning them on. If everything is working smoothly, you’re good to go.
Why Wipers Direct Wiper Blades Are the Superior Choice
Although wiper refills offer a short-term solution, they often create more hassle than they’re worth. Between measuring, fitting, and trimming, the process can be frustrating and time consuming. Worse, if you make a mistake with the measurements, you’ll end up with poor performance and may need to start all over again.
This is where Wipers Direct makes things incredibly easy. Here’s why they’re the better choice:
- Easy to order: Simply visit the Wipers Direct website, enter your car’s make, model, and year, and the system will match you with the correct wiper blades. No measuring or guessing required.
- Guaranteed 100% Perfect Fit: Every set of wiper blades from Wipers Direct comes with the proper adapters to ensure a perfect fit. You’ll never have to worry about trimming or adjustments.
- Latest Wiper Technology: Wipers Direct blades are made with Teflon and graphite for smoother, quieter wipes, and they’re designed to last longer than traditional refills.
- Quick & Easy Installation: Installation takes less than 30 seconds and requires no tools, just clip them into place and enjoy better performance.
- 90 Day Test Drive: Test our wipers out for 90 days and if you don’t like them, return them for a full refund, no questions asked!
Wiper Refills vs. Wipers Direct Blades: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Wipers Direct Wiper Blades | Wiper Refills |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Purchase | Simple online purchase by entering vehicle details | Requires manual measurement of blade length and width |
| Fitment | Guaranteed perfect fit on your vehicle without the stress of measuring and cutting | May require trimming and adjustments for proper fit |
| Installation | Tool free, less than 30 second | Time consuming, involves tools like pliers and screwdrivers |
| Technology | Teflon infused natural rubber for smooth wiping, durable design, low noise and smooth wipes | Basic rubber insert, prone to wear out quickly and noisy |
| Performance | Superior performance in all Aussie weather conditions | Uneven performance, especially in heavy rain or snow |
FAQs
Do Wipers Direct wiper blades perform better than refills?
Absolutely. Wipers Direct wiper blades use advanced materials like Teflon and natural ruber, which ensure smoother and quieter wiping compared to outdated rubber refills.
How do I measure my wiper blades for refills?
To measure for refills, you’ll need to measure both the length and width of your current wiper blades. However, with Wipers Direct, there’s no need to measure, just enter your vehicle details online and receive the correct blades.
Why should I choose full wiper blade replacements over refills?
Replacing the entire wiper blade guarantees better performance, a longer lifespan, and easier installation. Refills, on the other hand, are outdated and prone to quicker wear and tear.
Is installing Wipers Direct wiper blades difficult?
Not at all. Wipers Direct wiper blades are designed for easy, tool free installation. The process takes less than 30 seconds, and each set comes with the necessary adapters for a perfect fit.
Can I use wiper refills for any type of wiper blade?
Not all wiper blades are compatible with refills. Many modern blades don’t allow for refill replacements, which is why it’s often better to replace the entire blade.
How often should I replace my wiper blades?
Wiper blades should generally be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on weather conditions and how frequently you use them. Wipers Direct wipers are designed to last much longer than traditional refills and will save you time and money in the long run.
Conclusion
While wiper refills may seem like a cost saving option, they’re often more trouble than they’re worth. The process of measuring, fitting, and trimming can be frustrating and time-consuming, and the performance is usually subpar. Wipers Direct wiper blades, on the other hand, offer a modern, hassle-free solution. With their advanced materials, easy installation, and guaranteed perfect fit, Wipers Direct blades ensure you have clear visibility and a safer driving experience in any weather.
Skip the tedious work of refills and upgrade to Wipers Direct wiper blades today. Enjoy effortless purchasing and installation, and keep your windshield clear for years to come.
