Windshield Wipers?
 

Does anyone know why on some newer model Bimmers only one of the windshield wipers has an extra black piece? It's attached to the left windshield wiper and basically looks like it should go on both sides, but doesn't.

I really have not noticed - I'm waiting for the wipers to wear out so I can replace them with Bosch Icons, which work great on my '01

What are the Bosch Icons? I haven't heard of that brand/type of wiper. What's the deal with them?

They're the flat, newer kinds where there's no metal blade attached to the rubber. It's just one flat piece of rubber and it's showing up as OEM on many new cars. (The wiper arm is still metal of course, but the blade is all rubber).

Isn't that a wind deflector?

Yes it is, only needed on the drivers side for visibility

I forces the wiper to the window, only the drivers side requires it.

Thanks I was wondering about this too, I guess I need some wrench to just remove it and place it on the new wiper blade, or get the insert.

The wind deflector is screwed on with two screws (torx iirc), if you want to keep it, you will need to get wiper refills. they did not fit on the Bosch Micro Edge blades I bought, and I assume they will be hit or miss with other wipers.

I don't find it necessary, but then I don't normally drive at speeds above 75mph, and never in the rain.

I just put the Icons on, and am very happy with the results.