Another ridiculous windshield wiper thread

statdoc · #1 09-12-2010, 09:53 PM

My X5 just came off warranty with the free maintainence a couple months ago, so I have now changed the windshield wipers myself for the first time. I took the advice of many here, and installed Bosch Icons. My question is regarding the "wing" on the driver's side OEM wiper. It obviously won't go on the new Bosch wipers. Is this a problem? Does the Bosch just not need it?

ArtMan · #2 09-12-2010, 10:11 PM

I just removed that and it works perfect. But yea i had the same thought as you with a WTF were they thinking!!!!

msammy · #3 09-12-2010, 11:02 PM

Same here, I deleted the wing and it makes no difference. I got so frustrated trying to make it work, I threw it into the woods (and it flew like a bastard!).

FSETH · #4 09-13-2010, 12:13 AM

The icons have built in spoilers. There is no need for the OE one once you install the icons.

statdoc · #5 09-13-2010, 12:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FSETH

The icons have built in spoilers. There is no need for the OE one once you install the icons.

Built-in? Where? Do you mean just the overall shape? Because I certainly didn't see anything that appeared overtly aerodynamic. Of course, I installed them this afternoon, and haven't driven the car since. Perhaps I will be reassured when I drive on the highway tomorrow.

FSETH · #6 09-13-2010, 12:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by statdoc

Built-in? Where? Do you mean just the overall shape?

Yes, the entire blade is a spoiler.

mark scheurer · #7 09-13-2010, 10:13 AM

I tried the Icons and noticed they made a noise I could hear so I went back to the old wiper with the larger spoiler.

FSETH · #8 09-13-2010, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark scheurer

I tried the Icons and noticed they made a noise I could hear so I went back to the old wiper with the larger spoiler.

Strange, my first pair lasted 2-3 years and never made a noise. The new ones have been silent so far as well.

ienjoydrifting · #9 09-15-2010, 02:15 AM

The wing keeps the wiper in place at high speeds. Go over 140 without the spoiler and the wiper will go directly to the a pillar from its retracted position.

statdoc · #10 09-15-2010, 08:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ienjoydrifting

The wing keeps the wiper in place at high speeds. Go over 140 without the spoiler and the wiper will go directly to the a pillar from its retracted position.

Well, since the electronic speed limiter won't let me go over 130, I don't have to worry about what happens at 140.