How To Replace Windshield Wipers

The trick here is to replace the wiper blades while you can still see out of the windshield. When you notice that your wipers seem to be spreading the road film on your windshield rather than removing it then it's time to get new wiper blades.

When you think about it, wiper blades perform remarkably well given the environmental abuse they are subject to and the fact that most people never think about "maintaining" wiper blades with a simple wash down with soapy water. Given that they are exposed to temperature extremes, rain, snow, sleet, pollen, road grime, pollution, bird droppings and general airborne crud the service life of a wiper blade is relatively long and replacing them, as long as you do it yourself, is inexpensive.

That said, changing blades can be a frustrating experience for first timers. Once you realize just how simple it is you will want to kick yourself.

There are several mounting configurations used but the "bayonet" or "snap on" is the most common. This is the mount that we'll discuss. If your wipers look different you'll want to consult your owner's manual.

• A pair of fairly functional hands
• A clean shop rag (for the overly cautious)

The first thing you'll want to determine is what size replacement wiper blades you'll need. This is simply a matter of measuring their length with a tape. If you haven't changed wiper blades in a decade or so there are two points to remember. Unlike the old days the lengths of wiper blades on a car most likely will vary. As a general rule the driver side is longer than the passenger side. Also, when you purchase the replacement you are buying a single blade at a time as opposed to a set like days of yore. So when you think you've just found a steal on replacement blades, understand that's the price for a single blade.

When you are ready to begin, turn the ignition to "on" and turn on the wipers. When the wipers reach their apex, turn the ignition off. The wiper arms and blades will now be pointing straight up and they are easier to reach and work with.

1. Pull the wiper away from the windshield.
2. Where the wiper arm and blade meet you'll find a "joint" that has a small plastic or metal tab affixed to it. Push this tab in.
3. Pull down on the wiper blade to disengage it from the arm.
4. This all sounds simple but the fact of the matter is that joint is going to be dirty and cruddy and most likely the tab will be difficult to depress. Wiggle the blade a bit to break up the dirt. If that doesn't work then you can try washing it or using some WD-40.
5. When the blade is removed make sure the arm doesn't snap back on the windshield as it could crack it. To prevent this you can fold a clean shop towel and place it beneath the arm and then let the arm down.

1. Make sure you are installing the right length wiper on the correct side.
2. Line up the "joint" with the mount on the arm and slide the blade up until you hear the tab snap.
3. When both blades are replaced turn the ignition on and test the wipers.

That's it. That's all there is to replacing a wiper blade.

- End of Procedure -

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