Rain•X RAIN REPELLENT
Tips and information

Click image to View the 'One Second Advantage' diagram

How does it work?
How long does it last?
When should it be re-applied?
What about previous coatings?
Can you really drive without using wipers?
Can Rain-X Rain Repellent cause smearing/filming?
What causes smearing/filming?
Can it be used on transparent plastics?
What about wiper blades?
What is the correct way to apply Rain-X Rain Repellent?
WINDSCREEN SMEARING-THE CAUSES AND REMEDIES 

How does it work? top
Rain-X Rain Repellent penetrates and seals the microscopic pores of the glass with a super-slick invisible barrier that helps to repel rain, sleet and snow on contact. The hydrophobic formula works with the natural airflow over the car to disperse rain-drops from the windscreen.  

How long does it last? top
Rain-X is unaffected by normal screen washing. Abrasion by wiper blades and trapped grime will gradually reduce performance and durability. Depending on the amount of driving and how often the wiper blades are used, Rain-X can last from 2-3 weeks to several months before a new application is necessary.

When should it be re-applied? top
When you notice fall-off in performance. A freshly treated screen will cause aerodynamic run-off of rain at speeds from about 50-60kph (30-35mph) depending on windshield design

What about previous coatings? top
It is not necessary to remove previous coatings of Rain-X Rain Repellent – a fresh application will simply fill in voids and rejuvenate previous treatments.

Can it only be applied to the front windshield? top
Rain-X Rain Repellent can be applied to side and rear windows to help improve visibility all the way round.  

Can you really drive without using wipers? top
We do not recommend driving without wipers, however on a well-maintained screen, aerodynamic forces above 50-60kph (30-35mph) will remove the rain and result in improved visibility. At lower speeds, mainly in urban conditions, and in light drizzle, wiper assistance will be necessary.

Can Rain-X Rain Repellent cause smearing/filming? top
No. When correctly applied, Rain-X Rain Repellent improves visibility in wet conditions.

What causes smearing/filming? top
Smearing is caused by contaminants being spread across the glass windscreen. Key issues are the cleanliness of both glass and the wiper blade rubbers, and the condition of the wiper mechanism.

Can it be used on transparent plastics? top
Generally no. The increasing variety of various coatings applied to plastics makes it impossible to pre-test for compatibility under all conditions, and users should satisfy themselves by treating an area outside the normal area of vision. Please note that constant, repetitive use should be avoided due to the possible formation of stress cracking, especially on clear, curved sections.

What about wiper blades? top
Wiping the blades with Rain-X Rain Repellent will clean the blade and remove old, oxidised rubber.

What is the correct way to apply Rain-X Rain Repellent? top
It is essential to observe the directions for use. In particular:

• Before application, ensure the screen is thoroughly cleaned. In particular, remove all waxes and silicones that may have been applied if the car has been through a car wash. This is best achieved with a soft abrasive cleaner, such as Cif.
• Apply to a dry screen at temperatures above +5°C using a circular motion.
• Allow to dry and then thoroughly buff with a paper towel or lint free cloth until the glass screen is sparkling.
• Check the condition of the wiper blades. Deteriorating rubber or grime can cause smears/filming on the glass. Even new blades should be cleaned. Apply a good quality, glass cleaner to a clean cloth and wipe the rubber wiper blades until all grime is removed.

Rain-X Rain Repellent® has been sold around the world for more than 20 years. It is a story of success with many millions of bottles sold. It provides a valuable extra safety margin when driving under heavy rain conditions, particularly on motorways.

WINDSCREEN SMEARING-THE CAUSES AND REMEDIES top Manufacturers of windscreen wipers have long recognised the problem of smearing, here we identify the causes of smearing and streaking.
SMEARS-CAUSES A deformed wiping lip of the wiper blade giving excessive layover. A contaminated windscreen.	SMEARS-REMEDIES Replace the wiper blade. Should be done every 6-12 months. Check the wiper arm attack angle. Check wiper arm spring pressure. Thoroughly clean the windscreen. Clean wiper blade squeegees
STREAKS-CAUSES Age hardening of the wiper blade rubber. Damaged wiper blade Inadequate detergent in the windscreen washer container. A change in the wiper arm characteristics.	STREAKS-REMEDIES Thoroughly clean the windscreen. Replace the wiper blade. Should be done every 6-12 months. Check the wiper arm geometry. Use a quality screen wash at the correct dilution Clean wiper blade squeegees
SCREEN CONTAMINATION CAUSES Rubber deposits and dirt from the blades. Waxes and silicones from car cleaning products, e.g., from automatic car washes. Atmospheric pollution, insects, grit, road spray including salts and exhaust particles. Scratches on screens form minute “reservoirs” for these contaminants. Wipers spread them, especially when used dry, i.e., without detergent from the washer Excess Rain-X on screen	SCREEN CONTAMINATION REMEDIES Deep cleaning of the screen glass. Removal of all contamination from wiper blades. Most drivers fail to do this. Replacement of badly scratched screens. Keeping a chamois leather solely for use on the screen. Never use the same leather both for bodywork and for glass. To do so merely transports wax and silicone contamination to the screen. Remove using an abrasive cleaner such as Cif or Halfords Glass Cleaner, and re-apply Always use very sparingly.