MAGIC VISION CONTROL: Mercedes-Benz’s Magic Wipers
A few years ago, the German brand developed a sophisticated new windshield wiper that promised all-season capability, less waste of washer fluid and longer-lasting blade performance. The MAGIC VISION CONTROL system was first introduced on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL, and is now trickling down to lower-priced models such as the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe we recently drove in Spain.
Each wiper arm is equipped with two washer fluid channels that benefit from laser-cut pores. Washer fluid is distributed along the entire length of the wiper blade, a little more at the end of the blade that sweeps a greater surface of the windscreen. Mercedes-Benz claims this system is safer than a conventional wiper system that shoots washer fluid on the windshield, blurring the driver’s vision for a second before the wipers activate themselves.
The system is programmed to squirt less fluid in the summertime, and more in winter to be more effective against slush and calcium that has accumulated on the windscreen. It regulates washer fluid output based on, among other things, outside temperature and vehicle speed. According to the automaker, this reduces the quantity of washer fluid used and vehicles following behind in traffic don’t get sprayed, either.
In the case of convertibles such as the SL roadster, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet and the newly introduced 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, MAGIC VISION CONTROL reduces the amount of washer fluid used when the vehicle’s top is down so occupants don’t get sprayed.
In addition, the wiper and the fluid hose system both incorporate heating elements. Snow and ice cannot build up on these wipers, which means they remain flexible and effective at all times, even in a bad snowstorm. Combined with the fact that the wipers will never scrub a dry windshield, the blades are said to last longer. A great system for our harsh Canadian winters.
The only downside to these innovative windshield wipers is price. If they break, or once the blades will eventually need to be replaced, the car’s owner will have to change the whole wiper assembly. A pair of MAGIC VISION CONTROL wipers costs about 95 euros, or CAD$137 with the current exchange rate, installation not included. In all fairness, that’s only $43 more than a set of Mercedes-Benz’s regular windshield wipers.