February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020 AFTERMARKET 21 Rear wiper blades should be changed just as frequently as the blades at the front-end of the vehicle, says TRICO. That approach is not always applied however, as, TRICO Senior Product and Brand Manager Sam Robinson pointed out: “I’ve spoken to motorists in the past where their rear wiper blades haven’t been changed for five years! Therefore, there is definitely room for some education from both the motorist and technicians’ point of view, with the latter reaping the rewards. It’s an excellent upsell opportunity, while it ensures drivers have the best visibility possible. Sam continued: “Rear wiper blade sales account for just 10% of all blade sales, so workshops should offer a comprehensive service check and choose a brand that offers an extensive wiper programme to cover the needs of the market and seize their opportunity to earn extra revenue. “Rear and front wiper blades should be changed annually. If not, aside from the obvious issue of impeding visibility, severely worn blades have been known to become damaged on metal or plastic components, which may damage the windscreen or cause the blade to disengage. “There is an increasing number of vehicles with unique rear wiper blade designs. Although many blades look similar, they’re specially designed and manufactured, plus they’re specific in their fitment. The TRICO Exact Fit rear blade programme, for example, boasts excellent coverage to accommodate the eclectic mix of applications.” Sam added: “The range of specialty blades are designed exclusively for Exact Fit rear applications. These blade types cannot be serviced with a standard conventional wiper blade and, instead, have various connection styles and blade types, such as plastic, beam or metal.” Opportunity coming up the rear says TRICO