Windshield Wiper replacement

[my996]

I have a 99 996 cab. I need to replace the front windshield wipers. Are these a special part available from porsche only? or can I go into any autozone and pick up a set that fits (ie bosch)? Thanks

[Tool Pants]

The wipers are unique. The passenger side has a curve to it and is a bit shorter.

I use the refills. I used the Bosch refills in the past but I have not seen them at the part stores in years.

If there is a Pep Boys where you live and you want to use refills then try these. You need 22" but there are 3 widths. The narrow 7 mm should be the one.

[Richard Hamilton]

I use the PIAA silicone wiper blades. Not sure if they are available in the US, but they work much better than the standard ones. Much smoother operation, eliminating any judder. After a while they build up a layer on the scren which gives a 'Rain-X' effect. Pricy, but worth it.

[fastboydave]

Richard, where are these from? How much?? Cheers.

[Richard Hamilton]

I get mine from Auto Performance Products: http://www.a-pp.com/ - they are about £30+VAT+delivery for the pair.

TBH, I just got two straight blades, which I don't have a problem with, but they do have a curved blade as well.

[wross996TT]

I got mine from Tire rack...buy one get one free....way better than stock BTW.

Get the Valeo model...here is the link:

Tirerack Valeo

[Q-Ship986]

I got mine from Tire rack...buy one get one free....way better than stock BTW.

Get the Valeo model...here is the link:

Tirerack Valeo

You don't have an issue with the passenger side? Is a portion of the windshield missed because the passenger side blade is straight, not curved? --Brian

[wross996TT]

I got mine from Tire rack...buy one get one free....way better than stock BTW.

Get the Valeo model...here is the link:

Tirerack Valeo

You don't have an issue with the passenger side? Is a portion of the windshield missed because the passenger side blade is straight, not curved? --Brian

I don't know what you mean by straight...the Valeo blade fits the windshield like a glove and has a built in wind spoiler.

Edited August 22, 2007 by wross996TT

[Richard Hamilton]

The Valeo looks good. It isn't silicone though - shame.

[Q-Ship986]

I got mine from Tire rack...buy one get one free....way better than stock BTW.

Get the Valeo model...here is the link:

Tirerack Valeo

You don't have an issue with the passenger side? Is a portion of the windshield missed because the passenger side blade is straight, not curved? --Brian

I don't know what you mean by straight...the Valeo blade fits the windshield like a glove and has a built in wind spoiler.

Well, that answers that question. But for academic purposes, this is what I meant by straight vs. curved:

Straight (driver's side):

Curved (passenger's side):

How much handling prowess do you think is lost in making the switch to a straight blade on the passenger side, and do you think it can be made up by installing a front strut tower brace?

In all seriousness, though, do you have to select a shorter passenger side blade to avoid it hitting the plastic trim at the base of the wideshield, on the lower right in the photo above?

The Valeo looks good. It isn't silicone though - shame.

Not sure that silicone would be inherently the best material. Most of these expensive blades are multi-compounded, too. FWIW.

--Brian

[Tool Pants]

This is a better picture. The curved passenger side is on top.

I have seen cars with aftermarket straight blades. I can't see how it would matter. I just happen to notice these things....

[wross996TT]

Well folks...I misunderstood you curved description, but got it now. The only comment I have is the valeo blade works great, looks much better than stock (cleaner looking too) and is easy to install. You order the blade specifically for your car make and model.