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How To Fix Windshield Wipers – — Changing your own windshield wipers can be intimidating to the uninitiated. Plastic connector, rubber and metal swingarms may seem like a puzzle with steps only Indiana Jones could unlock, but it’s actually a simple task on many of the newer ones. Some auto parts stores offer free installation when you buy wipers for your vehicle there.
Still, it’s easy enough to consider doing it yourself if you’ve found a bargain online or bought replacement wipers elsewhere. Ready to replace your custom windshield wipers? Read on to find out how to get the job done right.
How To Fix Windshield Wipers
Newer ones prefer an easily replaceable hook-shaped wiper arm, where the wiper blade simply slides over a metal hook and snaps into place. Replacing the wiper blades on the hook arm is a process that we will describe in detail because it is so common. We’d be lying if we said all wipers are the same or that they’re easy to remove or replace – different wiper arms and mounts have been used over the years. Stubborn with pegs and unique latches can incite anger so deep that new wiper blades can turn into boomerangs before they’re even installed.
How Often Should I Change My Wiper Blades?
While this guide should point you in the right direction when you need to replace your car’s wipers, every vehicle is different. Even blades using the same mounting method do not guarantee that all windshield wiper blades will come out the same way, so refer to the owner’s manual. If you are having trouble, consult a professional to avoid serious damage when attempting to remove or install windshield wiper blades.
1. Measure the length of the wiper blade using a measuring tape or ruler; when buying replacement wipers, you can also look at the operating instructions or the catalog in the store. Uneven wipers are normal. The previous long-term tester, a 2013 Subaru BRZ, used a 22-inch blade on the driver’s side and a 20-inch blade on the passenger side. Realizing you have the wrong size change only after you are sitting in the cold rain surrounded by empty wiper boxes and rogue clips is easy to avoid.
2. Place the new slats in a vertical position on the windshield. With the ignition in accessory mode, turn the wipers on until they reach medium travel, then turn the vehicle off so that the wiper arms are perpendicular to the hood line. It is often easier to remove the old strips with the wiper arms up, unless the hood or other obstruction prevents you from pulling the arm away from the windshield. Most allow this trick, although some wipers return to their original position when the ignition is turned off. Changing just one wiper at a time ensures that you have another blade available in case of problems.
3. Lift the arm from the windshield and rotate the blade. When the wiper arm is pulled away from the glass, turn the wiper so that the entire bar is perpendicular to the arm; some may have a buckle or pull tab for a full turn.
Windshield Wipers Not Working? Here’s How To Fix Them
4. At this point, have a towel or rag ready so you can rest the bare wiper arm against the soft material on the windshield after removing the wiper blade.
5. Release the connector and pull the wiper blade down. This step can vary, but on most blades you can pull the bottom tabs of the connector outward to release it from the hook, or press the button to release the blade. Once disconnected, slide down and remove the entire blade from the hook. You may need to tap it or give it a good coat to get over the debris or corrosion.
6. Gently rest the bare hook against the cloth on the windshield. The wiper arm is sprung, so don’t let the bare metal hook fall off quickly; it can break the glass and crack the windshield. The cloth also protects the glass from etching should the wipers come off unexpectedly for some reason.
7. Insert the new wiper blade connector into the hook. With the rubber facing the windshield, insert the new wiper blade connector into the hook and pull the blade firmly upward while listening or feeling for a click. You will often need to run the hook through the blade first before pulling out and plugging the connector into the hook.
How To Replace Your Windshield Wipers
9. Finally, test the wipers after installation so you don’t try them in the next downpour when the passenger side blade scratches and scrapes the windshield. Congratulations! You just managed to replace your own windshield wipers!
… But if you haven’t done it yet and would like a video demonstration of how to get through it, we’ve got it for you: Watch the video below for more information on replacing the wipers.
The Editorial Department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In accordance with long-standing ethical policy, editors and reviewers do not accept gifts or free trips from car manufacturers. The editorial department is independent from the advertising, sales and sponsored content department.
Editor-in-Chief Joe Bruzek’s 22 years of experience in the automotive industry doesn’t count against a lifelong obsession that began as a child admiring his father’s 1964 Chevrolet Corvette — and continues to this day. Joe has been an automotive journalist for 16 years, writing car reviews, news and research aimed at shoppers. As managing editor, one of his favorite areas to focus on is helping buyers understand electricity and how to determine if going electric is right for them. In his spare time, Joe maintains a love-hate relationship with his 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, which he wishes would fix itself. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bruzek-2699b41b/ Email Joe Bruzek
Windshield Wiper Blades Maintenance — State Street Auto Repair
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How To Change Windshield Wipers: 3 Wiper Types + Faqs
There are 20 references cited in this article, which you can find at the bottom of the page.
This article has been checked to ensure the accuracy of all facts cited and to confirm the authority of its sources.
Do you have trouble seeing the windshield every time it rains, even if you turn on the wipers? Wipers that don’t work effectively leave smudges and reduce your visibility, so it’s really important to replace them in order to drive safely. While hook rails are the most common type of wiper, different vehicles can have different styles, and we’re here to guide you through replacing each one. After reading, you’ll know how to remove and install the most common types of wipers and know when they need to be replaced.
This article was co-authored by Hovig Manouchekian and writer, Hunter Rising. Hovig Manouchekian is an automotive repair and design specialist and manager of Funk Brothers Auto, a family-owned business since 1925. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the automotive repair and maintenance process. He is also very knowledgeable about common automotive problems and needs, including engine repair, battery and accessory replacement, and windshield maintenance. Hovig’s knowledge and hard work have helped Funk Brothers Auto win the Angie’s List Super Service Award five years in a row. This article has been viewed 970,753 times.
How To Replace Your Car’s Windshield Wipers
To replace the wiper blades on your car, start by lifting one of the metal wiper arms away from the windshield. Disconnect the old wiper blade by pressing the small plastic tab that holds the blade in place, then separate it from the metal arm. Slide the replacement wiper onto the same end you pulled the old wiper from, then rotate the new wiper until the hook clicks into place. Gently place the wiper back on the windshield and repeat the same steps to replace the other wiper. If you want to learn more from our co-author Mechanic, like when you should replace your wiper blades, keep reading! Windshield wipers are a key safety feature of your car, just like effective brakes or proper tire pressure. If you can’t see the road ahead, you can’t drive safely.
Wiper blades should effectively remove water, snow and dust from your windshield, keeping it clean and safe at all times.
Don’t be afraid! More than likely we will still have it
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