When should I replace my wiper blades?

Experts say every six to twelve months - but it is dependent on enviromental conditions and use.

How can I tell if my wiper blades need replacement?

Look and listen for signs of wear: Look for rounded or ragged blade edges, and streaking and smearing on the windshield. Listen for chattering from hardened rubber blades that won't flip over on each stroke.

Why do my wipers keep making that awful squealing noise?

If it doesn't stop after a few strokes, your wiper blades may have hardened from sun and age and/or are worn out and probably need to be replaced.

Why do my wipers leave streaks across the windshield?

If the streaks and missed spots don't go away after you run the windshield washer for a few strokes, your wiper blades may have hardened from sun and age and/or are worn out and probably need to be replaced.

Are there differences in wiper blades?

Yes - blades with premium features and performance, such as those from Michelin, can last longer and wipe more smoothly and consistently. The new frameless "beam" style blades like those on new cars offer performance improvements as well. Michelin "beam" blades are available to fit older vehicles.

Can I install my own wiper blades?

Yes - it's easy to refer to the helpful installation diagrams included on all Michelin wiper blade packages. If you need additional assistance, call 1-800-Blade Aid (1-800-252-3324). Also, go to the "Replacing Wiper Blades" page of this website for visual installation tips.

I've seen Michelin wiper blades in stores for a couple of years now. Are all their blades new and improved? If so, what are the major differences in the second generation blades?

The latest Michelin wiper blades on the market are all new and improved. Some of the features include improving the performance of the rubber compounds, converting all conventional blades to riveted construction for added strength and adding functional features such as spoilers for improved wiper performance. Other enhancements include additional or improved rubber coatings for quiet operation, packaging that is more descriptive and easier to open and improved connectors for easier installation and better performance for the life of the product.

How many different wiper blade models does Michelin offer?

In addition to the new advanced frameless all-weather blades, Michelin offers a full line of wiper blades.

My vehicle isn't currently equipped with a frameless blade. Can I switch?

Michelin frameless all-weather wiper blades fit over 95 percent of the passenger cars and trucks currently on the road in North America.

Are more auto companies using the frameless blade design? Will it eventually make traditional frame blades obsolete for motorists?

Vehicle manufacturers recognize the benefits of frameless wiper blades and each year they are showing up on an increasing number of passenger cars and light trucks as standard equipment. Whether it will make traditional frame designs obsolete will ultimately be determined by the marketplace.

I've never installed a wiper blade before, is it difficult? Where can I go if I have questions?

Michelin's patented EZ-LOK® Connector System makes wiper blade installation a snap, literally, along with step-by-step instructions available on the package and at www.pylonhq.com. For questions, call the toll-free customer assistance line available at 1-800-252-3324.

Does Michelin offer replacements for just the rubber portion of the blade? Why or Why not? If yes, it is available for both frameless and traditional blades?

Michelin does not offer replacements for the rubber portion of the wiper blades. Customers and retailers say the convenience and low cost of full blade replacement outweighs an incremental savings of replacing only the rubber insert.

Some vehicles are equipped with two or three different blade sizes, where can I go to find out what size to buy?

Michelin has handy reference guides both in-store and online to help motorists select the correct blades for their particular vehicle's manufacturer, model and year. For more information online, visit www.pylonhq.com or call toll-free 1-866-499-0572.

Isn't the six-month replacement recommendation as outdated as the change your engine oil every 3,000 miles with the reality most cars today can double that?

A Michelin frameless blade will last longer than the typical six months associated with conventional blades but life expectancy depends on many factors in the environment and cannot be predicted precisely. The M-Guard rubber technology in the Michelin frameless blade allows the wiping edge to remain effective longer as the compound is more durable than other traditional rubber compounds and will allow the customer to experience a longer satisfactory wipe period before the blades need to be replaced.

What are the warning signs that a blade is worn out? What climates and/or conditions tend to shorten blade life?

Rubber is the most important part of your wiper blades and the sun's ultraviolet rays, automatic car washes and extended periods of non-use can all take their toll wiper blade life. The most common warning signs to look for signaling time for replacement include dry, cracked or split rubber or damage to the wiper arm assembly (bent or broken metal) which can result in streaking, chatter or scratching of the windshield.

Snow and ice buildup are obviously tough on wiper blades. What recommendations does Michelin have for removing them that helps avoid damage?

The first thing to observe when attempting to remove wipers in freezing conditions is to see if the blades are frozen to the windshield. Gently pull up on the wiper to see if it is frozen. Using force can cause the rubber to tear resulting in permanent damage. If the wipers are covered with snow, run water or washer solvent over the wiper if possible to melt the snow or gently brush aside the snow so that the wiper is visible. The water can also be used to free the rubber from the glass safely without tearing it or damaging the wiping edge. The windshield can also be allowed to warm up with the defroster on the highest setting.

I've never thought of wiper blades as being high-tech. What are some of the technology advancements in the last 3-5 years?

Some of the new wiper technologies developed in the last five years include improved rubber compounds, frameless-type wiper blades and more secure connection methods or arm types. Improved rubber compounds allow the rubber to remain flexible, function longer, have improved wear characteristics and resist UV and sunlight exposure better without compromising wipe performance.
Michelin frameless wiper blades have the benefits of:

• Improved pressure distribution for better contact with the windshield.
• No joints, openings or framework that could otherwise clog or freeze up in inclement weather.
• A lighter and lower profile for less vibration and lower wind resistance resulting in improved wipe performance and quieter operation.

The Original Equipment (OE) frameless-type wiper blades featured on many new passenger cars and trucks from the factory also use new connection methods for a more secure fit of the blade to the arm, resulting in less chatter and vibration and less chance of the blade detaching from the wiper arm.

What is M-Guard rubber?

M-Guard Advanced Rubber Technology is a permanent part of the rubber compound - not a surface coating that eventually wears off - containing technology to help maintain an effective wiping edge and extend blade life by reducing wear. The rubber blade is molded in one durable piece and the wiping element is held securely between two high tensile strength steel beams - not glued - for maximum durability.

What is the difference between M-Guard rubber and the silicone used to make a competitor's wiper blade? Why is it better?

Unlike silicone rubber technology which deposits an oily film on the windshield, M-Guard Advanced Rubber Technology is built in and utilizes proprietary ingredients to provide quiet, long-lasting performance.
Once the silicone coating is on the windshield, it's not only difficult to remove, it can lead to poor visibility and hazardous driving conditions, especially at night, from the "starburst" effect it creates from oncoming vehicle headlights. Silicone also attracts dust and dirt to the windshield and may result in the need for more frequent cleaning.

Why would a frameless all-weather blade last longer than other blade designs? On average how much longer does a Michelin's frameless all- weather blade last?

Frameless all-weather blades, also known as beam blades or flat blades have the advantages of being lower in profile. This means there's less chance of getting hit or impacted by flying objects and snow removal devices, and avoid getting snagged or caught on cleaning materials used in car detailing due to the reduction of sharp exposed edges and corners associated with conventional blades. They also have less moving parts to wear out and are simpler in construction although they still need to be highly engineered for effective performance.
A Michelin frameless blade will last longer than the typical six months associated with conventional blades but life expectancy depends on many factors in the environment and cannot be predicted precisely. The M-Guard rubber technology in the Michelin frameless blade allows the wiping edge to remain effective longer as the compound is more durable than other traditional rubber compounds and will allow the customer to experience a longer satisfactory wipe period before the blades need to be replaced.

Why does the Michelin frameless all-weather blade have 180-degree rotation? What's the benefit?

Unlike other types of frameless wiper designs, Michelin all-weather frameless blades are engineered to be used in either direction of rotation. This gives the customer the option of rotating the blades periodically to avoid the common permanent set condition where the rubber takes a bend or "set" in one direction and can cause the blades to "chatter" and result in poor wipe performance. Other blades have to be replaced when this occurs. The rotation feature also allows those customers with pin-type arms to relocate the blades slightly up or down the windshield depending on personal preference.
The benefit to the motorist is the ability to be able to use the blades for a longer period of time before they need to be replaced.

Is wiper blade wear determined by the mounting position?

Wear is not determined by mounting position. Wear is determined by frequency of use and environmental conditions. This is why different customers might experience different levels of performance and life expectancies.

How does the spoiler work on the Michelin frameless wiper blade?

The spoiler works by directing the wind down on the wiper blade for greater down force and improving the wiper pressure on the windshield for better performance. Since it is located down the middle of the wiper, unlike other blades, it allows the blade to experience greater down force in any direction of rotation.

Why does a frameless blade cost more than a standard wiper blade design?

Michelin frameless all-weather wiper blades offer a variety of features and benefits that distinguish it from other products currently in the market and provide an excellent value. It has been engineered and manufactured with Michelin's high quality standards and proprietary technology that improves performance and helps to extend blade life.

Are any of the blade parts made from recycled materials? Can any of the blade parts on a Michelin blade be recycled after use?

All of the blade parts are made from new materials and can be recycled after use.

What materials are used to manufacturer Michelin's frameless, all-weather blade?

The Michelin all-weather frameless blade is composed of rubber, plastic and steel components which are not hazardous and can be recycled after use.