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Conventional wiper blades
The 12-inch traditional wiper blades feature a steel frame and are constructed with rubber inserts. They are affordable and easy to use. However, they may not last long and need regular maintenance.
Beam wiper blades
The 12-inch beam wiper blades are designed without a traditional frame. Instead, they have a single-piece rubber or silicone frame. This design allows the blades to conform better to the windshield's shape, providing more consistent contact and better visibility in adverse weather. The 12-inch beam wiper blades are generally made of premium materials, such as natural rubber, thermoplastic, and silicone. They are more durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Additionally, they have a sleeker and modern-looking design that improves aerodynamics and reduces wind lift at high speeds.
Hybrid wiper blades
The 12-inch hybrid wiper blades combine the conventional frame and beam-style designs. They have a low-profile design and are suitable for high-speed vehicles. The hybrid blades provide better visibility and are less noisy. The hybrid wiper blades are usually made of premium materials, such as natural rubber.
Specialty wiper blades
The 12-inch specialty wiper blades include wiper blades designed for specific vehicles or regions. For instance, some specialty wiper blades are made to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as heavy ice and snow. These wiper blades may have additional features, like heated elements, to melt the ice and snow on the blades.
Here are some of the key factors to consider when buying a 12-inch wiper blade for retail or wholesale purposes.
Material
The most common materials for wiper blades are rubber, silicone, and graphite. Rubber blades are affordable and wear out quickly. They work best for low-priced cars and in developing countries. Silicone blades last longer than rubber blades. They are suitable for mid-range cars and in developed countries. Graphite blades are the most expensive. They are ideal for luxury vehicles.
Brand
Consider stocking popular brands that customers trust. Some customers prefer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) blades that come with the vehicle. Other customers are open to aftermarket brands. Research the brands that have a ready market.
Type
As discussed earlier, wiper blades come in different types. Consider adding several types to the inventory. Some car owners prefer beam blades. Others prefer conventional or hybrid blades.
Frequency of replacement
If the 12 wiper blades are meant for use in extreme weather conditions like desert heat or icy winters, they are likely to wear out quickly. Stock blades that are suitable for the weather conditions in the target market.
Size
Stock the standard sizes that most vehicles use. Apart from the 12-inch size, consider adding 14-inch, 16-inch, and 28-inch blades. Some suppliers sell wiper blades in sets of two or three. Retailers may prefer to buy in sets for easy resale. Purchasing in sets also caters to customers who prefer changing all the blades at the same time.
Maintenance
Wiper blades have to be maintained to prolong their life. Include maintenance products such as washer fluid, blade cleaners, and blade protectors in the inventory. Educate retailers on the importance of wiper maintenance.
Choosing the right 12 wiper blades for a specific vehicle requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
By considering these factors, choosing the right 12 wiper blades for a specific vehicle becomes a hassle-free process. This ensures maximum safety and comfort while driving, even in inclement weather.
Wiper blade replacement is a DIY-friendly task that can be done at home with minimal tools. To replace the 12 wiper blades, get the right size for the vehicle, and have a clean cloth at hand. Follow the steps below to replace the blades.
Park the Vehicle
Park the vehicle in a visible area and turn off the ignition. Turn on the wipers and let them move to the service position, where replacing them is easier. If the wipers haven't been turned on, lift the arms manually until they are perpendicular to the windscreen.
Remove the Old Blades
Lift the wiper arms and place them on the windscreen. Determine the type of connection system used to attach the blades to the arms. Most systems use a hook, but some may use a pin or a push-button system. Look for a release tab or a small lever to disconnect the hook system. Slide the old blade off and pull it away from the arm. For the pin or push-button system, remove the retainer and pull the blade out. Then, reverse the process to install.
Install the New Blades
Check the new blades to see the type of attachment system. For the hook system, insert the new blade into the arm's hook and slide it until it locks into place. For the pin or push-button system, insert the blade into the arm and replace the retainer.
Check the Installation
Check to see if the blades are securely attached to avoid accidents while driving. Ensure they are in the correct position and won't obstruct the driver's view.
Test the Wipers
Turn on the wipers and check if they function properly. Ensure they sweep across the windscreen without any abnormalities.
Dispose of the Old Blades
Dispose of the old blades properly. Some recycling centers can recycle the rubber parts, so check with them.
Q1: What vehicles are the 12-inch wiper blades used on?
A1: The 12-inch wiper blades are commonly used on smaller cars or specific models of larger vehicles. Examples of cars that might use this size include compact or subcompact models from brands like Ford, Honda, or Toyota.
Q2: Can wiper blades be swapped between vehicles?
A2: No, wiper blades are not interchangeable between vehicles. Each car model is designed with a specific size and type of wiper blade arm that requires a corresponding blade for a proper fit.
Q3: Are there different types of 12-inch wiper blades?
A3: Yes, 12-inch wiper blades come in different styles depending on the needs of the target market. Some examples include conventional framed blades, beam blades with a flexible rubber design, and hybrid blades that combine features of framed and beam styles.
Q4: How often should 12-inch wiper blades be replaced?
A4: It’s generally recommended to change wiper blades every 6 to 12 months. However, factors like climate, usage frequency, and quality can affect their lifespan. Signs of worn-out blades include streaking, skipping, or reduced visibility.
Q5: Are 12-inch wiper blades suitable for heavy-duty trucks?
A5: No, 12-inch wiper blades are too small for heavy-duty trucks. These vehicles typically require much larger blades, often exceeding 20 inches, due to their size. Wiper sizes are specified in the owner's manual or by the supplier based on the vehicle's specifications.