The Hidden Truth About Wiper Blade Warranties
Driving with worn wiper blades during an Australian downpour isn’t just annoying—it’s downright dangerous. Yet most car owners are shocked to learn that this critical safety component often falls into a warranty grey area.
Key Insight: While factory warranties protect against unexpected repair costs for major components, wear-and-tear items like wiper blades are typically excluded. But there are exceptions that could save you hundreds of dollars.
Understanding Factory Warranties: The Basics
What Exactly Is a Factory Warranty?
A factory warranty (sometimes called a manufacturer’s warranty) is essentially the automaker’s promise to fix or replace defective parts within a specific timeframe or mileage limit. This coverage kicks in from your vehicle’s purchase date and specifically addresses manufacturing defects—not normal wear and tear.
What’s Usually Covered Under Warranty?
Comprehensive factory warranties typically include protection for:
- Engine and transmission components
- Electrical systems and complex electronics
- Air conditioning and climate control systems
- Major safety features and systems
- Drivetrain and axle assemblies
- Interior electronics and control functions
Common Warranty Exclusions You Need to Know
Items that experience regular wear and deterioration are almost always excluded from coverage. These typically include:
- Brake pads and clutch components
- Filters, hoses, belts and gaskets
- Batteries, bulbs and light assemblies
- Fluids including oil, coolant and washer fluid
- Audio equipment and aftermarket accessories
And here’s the kicker—wiper blades are almost always on this exclusion list.
The Australian Wiper Blade Warranty Situation
Wiper blades are officially classified as consumable items, designed to deteriorate over time due to sun exposure, rain, dirt, and friction. Most Australian manufacturers expect drivers to replace them approximately every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.
Important: When your dealership tells you that new wipers aren’t included in your “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, they’re usually following manufacturer guidelines—not trying to be difficult.
However, a handful of brands do include wiper blades under their new vehicle warranty, usually limited to the first year or a specific kilometre limit. Let’s explore which manufacturers stand out from the crowd.
Manufacturers That DO Cover Wiper Blades
The following car brands offering vehicles in Australia include wiper blade coverage under their factory warranty, typically for 12 months or 20,000 kilometres (whichever occurs first):
This means if your wiper blades fail or show significant wear before your first year of ownership, you might qualify for a complimentary replacement. However, coverage can vary by specific vehicle model, so always verify with your dealership.
Manufacturers That Do NOT Cover Wipers
Most mainstream and luxury automakers in Australia do not include wiper blades in their warranty coverage. These brands include:
For these manufacturers, wiper blades are considered a driver maintenance responsibility. Dealers will typically inspect your blades during service intervals and recommend replacement when necessary, but the cost will be your responsibility. Being proactive about replacement can save you money, as dealership prices for wiper blades are often significantly higher.
Why Coverage Varies Between Car Brands
The difference in wiper blade coverage primarily comes down to brand policy and warranty strategy:
- Brands like Mitsubishi, Jeep, and Chrysler may offer coverage as a competitive advantage in their warranty marketing.
- Luxury manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz typically classify wipers as everyday consumables, regardless of their cost.
- Dealership discretion plays a role for brands like Jaguar and Land Rover, meaning coverage may depend on your specific dealer’s policies and goodwill.
How to Check if Your Wipers Are Covered
- Review your warranty documentation thoroughly – all coverage details are specified in the fine print.
- Check warranty details online (see manufacturer links below)
- Ask your dealership directly – especially when purchasing a new vehicle.
- Note kilometre and time limitations – most consumable coverage ends at 12 months or 20,000 km.
- Maintain proper records – if wipers fail within the coverage period, you’ll need proof of purchase and service history.
What to Do If Your Wipers Aren’t Covered
If your manufacturer excludes wiper blades from warranty coverage, you still have excellent options:
- OEM vs Aftermarket Blades: OEM (original equipment manufacturer) blades guarantee perfect fit but typically cost more. Aftermarket options often provide comparable performance at lower prices. Always choose exact-fit wiper blades rather than universal “one-size-fits-all” options for optimal performance.
- DIY Replacement: Most wiper blades can be replaced in under 10 minutes with no special tools required.
- Proper Maintenance: Regularly clean your blades, avoid using them on dry glass, and replace them annually for maximum safety and performance.
Wiper Blade Replacement Costs in Australia
Replacement costs vary significantly based on your vehicle’s make and model. Here’s a general cost breakdown for the Australian market:
- Rubber refill inserts (for metal frame wiper blades): $20–$25 per pair
- Premium or specialty blades: $80–$120 per set
- Dealer replacement service: $150-$300 per set (sometimes including installation)
Quality Wiper Blades at Unbeatable Prices
UNIWIPER offers exact-fit, high-performance wiper blades specifically designed for Australian climate conditions. Our blades deliver superior performance and durability for just $65 per front pair, including free delivery Australia-wide.
New Vehicle Warranty Coverage for Major Australian Brands
Below is a comprehensive reference table with links to view factory warranty terms and conditions for major automotive brands in Australia:
| Manufacturer | Warranty Details | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Mazda | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Hyundai | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Kia | View warranty details | 7 years / unlimited km |
| Mitsubishi | View warranty details | 5 years / 100,000 km |
| Ford | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Isuzu UTE | View warranty details | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| MG | View warranty details | 7 years / unlimited km |
| Subaru | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Nissan | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Volkswagen | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| GWM (incl. Haval) | View warranty details | 7 years / unlimited km |
| Tesla | View warranty details | 4 years / 80,000 km |
| BMW | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Mercedes-Benz | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Audi | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Honda | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Suzuki | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Lexus | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
| Volvo | View warranty details | 5 years / unlimited km |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but typically only for the first 12 months or 20,000 kilometres and only with specific manufacturers. Approximately 90% of automakers exclude wiper blades from warranty coverage.
Generally no. Extended warranties typically exclude consumables like wipers, tires, and brakes in most cases.
Occasionally, if the dealership exercises goodwill or if failure occurs within the limited coverage period. However, this is relatively uncommon in practice.
No. Rear wipers are considered the same as your front wiper blades and subject to the same warranty terms.
Manufacturers will classify them as regular wear items that require regular periodic replacement, similar to tires, brake pads, and light bulbs.
To be fair, none of them stand out significantly. It often comes down to the dealership as they are not owned by the manufacturer themselves. Some are happy to replace under goodwill, while others will deny the claim as they are a wear and tear item.
