Wiper blades and motors from Borg & Beck

Being constantly exposed to changing weather conditions and temperatures, over time the rubber on the wiper blade will inevitably deteriorate, which could affect visibility and potentially become dangerous, not just for the driver, but other road users as well.

It is therefore best practice to change wipers annually as a matter of course and not leave them to deteriorate to the point where smearing impacts the driver’s visibility.

With a Borg & Beck blade, each is supplied with a complete selection of fitting adaptors to ensure the widest possible vehicle coverage for minimum stock investment. All the blades are manufactured from 100 per cent natural rubber, with a liquid graphite coating that not only delivers a smooth, streak-free and silent operation, but has the additional benefit of providing longevity.

The conventional blades are available in sizes from 11 to 28 inches, while the spoiler blades, which are mainly fitted on the driver’s side and ensure extra contact, and therefore improved visibility, especially at motorway speeds, are available in lengths from 18 to 28 inches. Both feature a high strength zinc galvanised steel frame and stainless-steel backing, which means they are robust, while remaining corrosion free.

For superior all-weather performance combined with the most up to date aesthetics, the Borg & Beck flat blade features a unique design with a flatter spoiler, which minimises drag but maximises screen-clearing performance. Not only incorporating the liquid graphite coating, these blades also come with a multi functioning mounting base and clips, for easy fitment and are available from 15 to 30 inches.

Also in range are the 16 to 28 inch hybrid blades, which provide drivers with a modern replacement to a conventional blade that combines the aerodynamic properties of the flat blade and the reliable wiping performance of a traditional blade. Its stylish look comes from an integrated spoiler that runs the whole length of the blade, which reduces wind lift at high speed, whilst providing a constant downforce for an even load distribution across the windscreen. This design offers a chatter free, smooth wiping action, which prolongs the life of the blade and has become the choice blade for many, whether that’s as a direct replacement or to replace the conventional blades that were fitted as standard.

No range is complete without a rear blade offering and the high strength zinc galvanised frame with UV coating and liquid graphite coated blade, combined with multiple mounting clips, means that these blades make the ideal rear wiper replacement and provide the final element in the premium quality Borg & Beck wiper blade range. Sizes range from 8 to 16 inch.

Availability is key in the aftermarket. Borg & Beck says it has found that, due to vehicle defects, some motors are more prone to failure than others. For instance, the Renault Clio wiper motor (FWM1004/BWM1004) fails as a result of being submerged in water due to a blocked drain channel, it is therefore recommended that technicians check this when vehicles come into the workshop, especially during winter.

To resolve the situation, technicians obviously need to replace the wiper motor, but during the procedure, must also remember to clear the blockage. In addition, proactive workshops would do well to advise the customer to keep an eye on the situation to ensure it is kept free of debris and able to drain properly.

Nissan Qashqai
On most cars, the most common cause of the wiper motor failure is because linkages wear, which leads to the ball joints popping off their sockets, bringing the wiper blades to a complete stop. However, with this popular, first generation Nissan Qashqai there is another big problem to be aware of, according to Borg & Beck.

Reacting to the high demand for replacement motors for this vehicle, the First Line product team investigated the problem and discovered an oversight made during the design and specification of the vehicle at original equipment level, which results in the output shaft seizing, due to the build-up of rust.

This is caused because the output shaft is neither sealed nor lubricated and due to its location, following heavy rainfall, water is able to penetrate between the shaft and motor housing, which allows rust to accumulate. As the rust builds up, the motor is put under stress as it contends with the rising levels of friction on the shaft to keep the wipers moving, until the point when the increased load is drawing a current greater than 30amps, which is when the wiper motor’s fuse will blow.

In addition, should the water that has penetrated between the shaft and housing freeze or the wiper blades freeze to the windscreen and are not freed before the wipers are switched on, the excessive load on the motor may also induce premature failure.

As wiper blades are a crucial safety feature, technicians should be checking them and the mechanism, including the motor, on every vehicle as part of the service inspection. Regardless, it is however advised by Borg & Beck that this time of the year is the best time to replace wiper blades, as this is when they are going to be in need the most.

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