I replaced my stock wipers with the Bosch icons (424A and 422B) 2 years ago and have noticed no additional wind noise or negative effects, and with periodic cleaning of the blade itself when I wash the car to keep crud off of it, they usually last me years before needing to be changed.

I had Icons on my 99 VW VR6 Jetta 10 years ago, they lasted me 4 years strong and sold the car with them, no degradation whatsoever.

I guess your trials were different however with the E53, sorry to hear that, I think the Icons are great wipers!

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2018 Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins 68RFE
19k miles -Bright White/Black - Big Horn Sport - Crew Cab Short Bed
2013 X5 35D (CEO's) - Born on 5/17/2013 -
82k miles - Alpine White/Cinnamon Brown/Premium Pkg, Sport Activity/Premium Pkg and Sound/20" Style 214/Running Boards