Bargain wipers are bargains

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Consumer Reports' latest tests of 15 windshield wipers reveals that drivers don't need to spend a lot of money to get good wiper performance, but they might need to replace them every six months or so.

Three of the top four wipers were among the least expensive: The top-rated Valeo 600 series ($9, 18-inch; $15, 24-inch); the Anco 31 Series ($7, 18-inch; $10, 24-inch); and the Michelin Rainforce ($7, 18-inch; $7, 24-inch.)

The magazine found that all of the tested wipers provided "Very Good" or "Excellent" performance when new, but most quickly degrade after six to nine months of regular use. The RainX Latitude ($17, 18-inch, $21, 24-inch) was the only wiper that began with very good performance and maintained that level through six months.

The tested wipers included six beam-blade models, a relatively new design.

Unlike conventional wipers, beam blades have no external frames. As a result, they are promoted as providing more uniform pressure on today's curved windshields and therefore better wiping performance.

Beam blades usually cost more than conventional wipers, but Consumer Report's experts didn't see a notable advantage in regular use.

CONSUMER REPORTS