Wiper Blade: Description: Front

Fig 1: Front Wiper Blade

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Each front wiper blade is secured by an integral latching pivot block to the hook formation on the tip of the front wiper arms, and rests on the glass near the base of the windshield when the wipers are not in operation. See Fig 1. The wiper blade consists of the following components:

1. Superstructure  - The superstructure includes several stamped steel bridges and links with claw formations that grip the wiper blade element. Also included in this unit is the latching, molded plastic pivot block that secures the superstructure to the wiper arm. On vehicles manufactured for certain markets where it is required, the driver side front wiper blade has an additional molded black plastic airfoil secured to the superstructure, which is oriented toward the base of the windshield when the front wipers are in their parked position. All of the metal components of the wiper blade have a satin black finish applied.
2. Element  - The wiper element or squeegee is the resilient rubber member of the wiper blade that contacts the glass.
3. Flexor  - The flexor is a rigid metal component running along the length of each side of the wiper element where it is gripped by the claws of the superstructure.

All models have two 47.50 centimeter (18.70 inch) long front wiper blades with non-replaceable rubber elements (squeegees). The wiper blades cannot be adjusted or repaired. If faulty, worn, or damaged the entire wiper blade unit must be replaced.