advice on wiper blades

[comPuTer]

I've been having trouble with my wiper blades. These are fairly new and I try and take really good care of them, gently cleaning the blade with a damp cloth quite often.

What happens is that, more often than not, the blade "drags" noisily across the windshield (instead of quietly and smoothly). It doesn't matter how wet the windshield is. I've seen it happen with it slightly wet and very wet. At one time, I thought the temperature of the windshield was a factor, but I've since discovered that doesn't matter either.

Should I just go ahead and replace the blades (less than a year old and still look good to the eye) or is there some "trick" I can try before spending the money?

Also, any advice on which brands are the best/last the longest for the money?

[CREWZIN]

On-going discussion of Silicone Wiper Blades in the Exterior Accessory section of this forum.

Personally, I think if you keep the windshield really clean, it helps preserve the blades. I wipe down the windows (and the car) whenever I come back from a decent length trip and I've had the same wiper blades for 5 years. Other extenuating circumstances might have helped too.

[bobs turbo pt]

i use rain ex ones they work well the stock blades stink !!

[coopj40]

rain x works well also Bosh. Found I had to buy higher priced blades the cheap ones made noise

[Black_GT]

I've found, that for me, I buy a set of Bosch (Microedge Excel) blades in Spring. They'll last through until Fall, Then I'll go through two sets in the winter, before getting my spring wipers again....

[comPuTer]

Just wanted to follow up on this. I got a good deal on RainX blades at Walmart. The difference is incredible! Clean, streak-free wipes and they are absolutely silent! Don't know why I waited so long to replace them.

[quicksilverdon]

Think I'll try the Rain-X. I use their mix in the washer-fluid and like it.
WalMart - I can do that.

[trieber]

I put the siliblade wipers one, blue ones about 3 years ago. I live in the cold part of the midwest where we get the dirt in the summer and freezing snow and rain in the winter. These blades have worked perfect from day one, with no squeeking or chattering. I just wish they made the in smaller sizes. I would recommend them for anyone. I found the best deal on them at NOPI.com.