Robert Kearns Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Robert Kearns, born in 1927, began his career as an engineer, a path he chose after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He studied at the University of Detroit and later at the University of Michigan, where he earned his master’s degree in electrical engineering.

While working at Ford Motor Company in the 1960s, Kearns noticed a problem with the windshield wipers in cars. He saw that they couldn’t clear the windshield effectively during heavy rain, which posed a significant safety hazard. This observation led him to develop an idea for an improved wiper system that could better handle heavy rain and other challenging driving conditions.

**Robert Kearns’ Current Net Worth (2025)**

As of 2025, Robert Kearns’ net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This figure takes into account his successful career in the automotive industry and his notable inventions.

**Robert Kearns’ Career**

Robert Kearns, born in 1935, is an American inventor and engineer. He is best known for inventing the intermittent wiper system, a standard feature in modern vehicles. Kearns worked for Ford Motor Company before starting his own company, Kearns Automotive, in 1973. He sold his company to Ford in 1980, leading to a series of legal battles over patent rights.

**Other Ventures**

Beyond his automotive work, Kearns has been involved in various other ventures. He holds over 300 patents, including inventions related to windshield wipers, automotive safety, and medical devices. Kearns has also been a consultant for several companies, providing expertise in engineering and innovation.

**Assets**

Kearns’ assets primarily consist of his patent portfolio, which generates royalties from various industries. He also owns real estate, including a home in his native Detroit, Michigan. Kearns has invested in stocks and bonds, diversifying his financial portfolio.

**Annual Income**

While Kearns’ exact annual income is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated to be substantial due to his patent royalties and consulting work. His annual income is likely to fluctuate based on the performance of his investments and the success of his consulting projects.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Robert Kearns

Frequently Asked Questions: Robert Kearns Net Worth

1. What is Robert Kearns’ net worth?

Robert Kearns’ net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

2. How did Robert Kearns make his money?

Robert Kearns made his fortune as an inventor. He is best known for inventing the intermittent windshield wiper, which is used in most vehicles today.

3. When was Robert Kearns born?

Robert Kearns was born on January 12, 1927.

4. Where was Robert Kearns born?

Robert Kearns was born in Detroit, Michigan.

5. When did Robert Kearns invent the intermittent windshield wiper?

Robert Kearns invented the intermittent windshield wiper in 1963.

6. Did Robert Kearns receive proper credit for his invention?

No, Robert Kearns did not receive proper credit for his invention. He spent much of his life fighting for recognition and compensation from the automotive industry.

7. What was the title of the movie about Robert Kearns’ life?

The movie about Robert Kearns’ life was titled “Flash of Genius”. It was released in 2008.

8. How many patents did Robert Kearns have?

Robert Kearns had over 300 patents to his name.

9. What was Robert Kearns’ education background?

Robert Kearns graduated from the University of Detroit with a degree in mechanical engineering.

10. When did Robert Kearns pass away?

Robert Kearns passed away on February 14, 2005.