Why Do Hatchbacks Have a Rear Window Wiper but Sedans Don’t?
It’s something weird – why do hatchbacks have a rear window wiper but sedans don’t? In fact, it’s quite unfair that a common type hatchback has a wiper but an incredible sedan does not.
Like many others, even you could have this question in your mind. Therefore, it’s time to answer what stops a sedan from having a rear window wiper.
Let’s find out!
Why Don’t Sedans Have Rear Window Wiper?
Although, there are several justifications for this question, we would go with the two most rationalized ones.
1. Car’s Air Flow
It states that the manner in which the air flows over a car having a trunk as opposed to a car that has an opening rear is different. It further states that the shape of a hatchback is a question. Why?
Well, this is because a hatchback has a vertical or almost vertical rear window, which gets dirtier than sedan cars. And thus, in hatchbacks, there is an excessive need for a rear window wiper.
2. Airflow Pattern of the Car
Because of the designing of the sedans and hatchbacks, sedan cars rarely need a wiper.
This is because the airflow is more turbulent at the rear over a hatch than a sedan. It is another crucial reason why hatchback cars need rear window wiper and sedans doe not.
3. Fuel Consumption
Adding a wiper on a sliding rear window will create more aerodynamic drag, thus, creating more fuel consumption.
Further, a wiper also requires an electric motor along with a complicated mechanism having a long arm to make the wiper wipe across the rear glass.
When it comes to a hatchback, it has enough space for all equipment while there is no space for sedans for such paraphernalia.
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4. Cargo Design
The cargo space in a sedan is much different from that of a hatchback. In a sedan, with a rear window wiper at the back, it will be difficult to open the cargo space to keep the luggage.
You may have noticed the manner in which a sedan cargo space opens up. This is why having a rear wiper can be troublesome. Whilst, this is not the case with a hatchback.
5. Car Designing
Most design departments do not like the look of a sedan car with a rear window wiper. Well, the reason why they don’t like it is unknown, but the primary explanation is that it spoils the look of the car.
Hence, most automakers do not use rear wipers while manufacturing a sedan car. To your surprise, a few automakers manufacture sedans with rear window wipers. But the number is quite low.
Although, it is quite difficult to state the exact reason why sedan cars lack rear wipers, yet the above mentioned reasons are the most common.
FAQs
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Do all hatchbacks have rear window wipers?
No, not all hatchbacks have rear window wipers, but they are more common in hatchbacks compared to sedans due to the design of their rear windows.
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Can I add a rear window wiper to my sedan if I want one?
It’s possible to add a rear window wiper to some sedans, but it may require modifications to the rear window and electrical systems, which can be costly and may void warranties.
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Are there any advantages to having a rear window wiper on a sedan?
While it’s less common, some sedans do have rear window wipers, offering better visibility during heavy rain or snow. The advantage is improved rear visibility in adverse weather conditions.
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Do all sedans lack rear window wipers for design reasons?
No, not all sedans lack rear window wipers solely for design reasons. It’s often a matter of design and aerodynamics, but some higher-end sedans do include them for practicality.
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Are rear window wipers only for aesthetics or do they serve a functional purpose?
Rear window wipers serve a functional purpose by improving visibility. They help remove rain, snow, or debris from the rear window, enhancing safety while driving.
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Are there any alternative solutions for sedans to improve rear visibility in bad weather without adding a rear window wiper?
Yes, alternatives include using hydrophobic coatings on the rear window, regularly cleaning the rear window, and relying on the car’s defroster to clear condensation and ice.
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Are there any safety regulations that mandate the presence of a rear window wiper on certain vehicle types?
Safety regulations typically don’t mandate the presence of a rear window wiper on specific vehicle types. Wiper requirements are more focused on front windshields.
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Are there aftermarket rear window wiper kits available for sedans?
Yes, some aftermarket rear window wiper kits are available for sedans, but installation can be complex, and it’s essential to ensure they comply with local regulations.
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Does the absence of a rear window wiper affect the resale value of a sedan?
The absence of a rear window wiper may have a minimal impact on a sedan’s resale value, as it’s not a standard feature. However, it could be a selling point in regions with heavy rainfall or snowfall.
Final Words
Having the industry knowledge and experience in the market, most automakers do not put a rear window wiper in sedan cars.
But there is no thumb rule behind this, and thus, you may find a few manufacturers making sedan cars having rear wipers.
