How to Change Your Windshield Wipers Easily

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If the wiper blades of your car aren’t clearing the water and snow the way they should, it’s time to change the windshield wipers! Changing the wiper blades is a no-brainer, still, some drivers experience issues in doing it.

The fitting of the blades affects the performance and the cleaning that you get, so it’s indispensable to install them correctly. Read this “how to change the windshield wipers”, article and do it with added ease.

How to Change Windshield Wipers

In addition, the article highlights some tell-tale signs that you should change the wiper blades immediately.

When Should You Replace Windshield Wipers?

How long do the wiper blades last? And when to replace windshield wipers? Well, there’s no definite answer because it depends on the quality of the rubber and how frequently you use the wipers.

Typically, good windshield wipers can last around 6-8 months, and after that, you should change them with new ones.

Here are some signs that you should replace the wipers:

1. Cracks

Old wipers become cracked and hard due to the harsh climate, and they become ineffective. If you see any cracks on the wiper blades, you should replace them right away. The cracked blades lose their spring effect and may scratch the windshield if not changed.

2. Ineffective Cleaning

If the wipers leave streaks and stains every time you switch them on to clean the windshield, it’s time to change them.

3. They’ll Squeaks While Cleaning the Glass

When the wiper blades get old, they start squeaking while cleaning. The reason is the worn-out rubber. The plastic part under the rubber strikes against the glass, and it makes loud noises. Changing the wipers is the only solution to get rid of this problem.

How to Remove and Replace Windshield Wipers: Windshield Wipers Replacement Guide

Replacing windshield wipers is a task that needs to be done carefully! In this comprehensive replacing windshield wiper guide, I’ve highlighted some steps that’ll help you choose the compatible wiper blades for your ride while installing them properly.

Things You’ll Need to Change the Windshield Wipers

You don’t need a lot of things to replace the wipers, but there are a handful of important things you should always have handy. These items include:

The measuring tape helps you measure the existing wipers and buy the best compatible wipers that properly fit with the windshield arm.

How to Remove Wiper Blades

Some drivers either damage the windshield arm or pull out the entire blade assembly when removing it. And it can result in costly repairs. The wiper blades are a delicate component that needs to be removed gently. Here’s how you should do it:

Step 1: Lift the Wiper Off the Windshield

Lift the wiper off the glass, and try to grab it with your hand. You can stand on either side of the car because the long bonnet may hinder your reach, and you won’t be able to remove the blades.

Step 2: Turn the Blade Perpendicular and Press the Small Tab

How to Remove Wiper Blades

Turning the blade perpendicular helps you access the hinge for easy removal. There is a small tab on the hinge that holds the wiper blade with the metal wiper arm. Press the tab, and you’ll hear a snap. You can even use pliers to press the tab firmly.

Step 3: Remove the Blade Carefully

Keep your finger or pliers on the tab, and try to remove the wiper blade off the metal arm. Next, slide the blade down, and repeat the process for blade number 2.

How to Change Windshield Wipers

When installed correctly, the wiper blades do the job efficiently and last much longer. Installing the blade is way easier than removing them and you can do it in mere 5 minutes.

Step 1: Link the Blade with the Metal Arm

Take the new blade, and position it on the metal arm so that the blade’s hook fits inside the arm’s hole. Now push the movable hinge so that the blade gets attached to the arm properly.

Step 2: Pull Up the Blade to Lock It

Once the wiper blade gets secure inside the arm, pull it up and lock it in place. You’ll hear a click sound after the blade gets locked properly, which is a sign that you have done it.

Repeat both steps with the other wiper blade, and get ready to adjust the angle.

Step 3: Check and Adjust the Wiper Arm Angle

Sometimes, the wiper arm’s angle gets disturbed while changing the wiper blades, but you can correct it quickly, so it’s not a thing to worry about.

The blade should be 90-degrees to the glass for an optimum sweep. If required, adjust the angle of the blade by moving the metal arm, and you can do it within minutes.

Step 4: Test It Out

Now you should test the new wiper blades to check if they work fine. Spray some washer fluid on the windshield, and let the wipers clean them. If you still see any visible streaks, the blades aren’t installed correctly, or you have not used the compatible blades.

Inspect that you have installed the blades correctly, and then test them again. If the issue persists, it is advised to seek professional help because there may be something wrong with the metal arm.

Tips For Changing Windshield Wipers

The tips I’ve listed below will make the whole process straightforward and hassle-free. Here are a few things to keep in mind when changing the windshield wipers.

1. Get the Right Type of Wipers Blades

Windshield wiper blades are available in different types, including snow wipers and regular wipers. If you live in one of the snowiest cities, snow wipers should be your choice.

Read the description of the wiper blades to ensure they serve the exact purpose you want and can perform well in the climatic condition of your city.

2. Cover the Windshield with a Thick Cloth

I’ve never seen one but heard about an incident where the metal windshield arm struck the glass and broke it! Before removing the wiper blade from the metal arm, cover the windshield with a thick cloth to safeguard it. You can remove the cloth after installing the new blades.

3. Lower the Wipers Gently

There is immense tension inside the windshield wiper arm, and that’s required for optimal cleaning. However, this tension can wreak havoc on the windshield. When putting the wipers back to the glass, be gentle so that the blades do not damage the glass.

4. Measure the Blades Accurately

You should measure the existing windshield wiper blades before ordering a new set. Every car uses a specific blade size, and you should only order the size that matches the existing blade size and is mentioned in the vehicle’s instruction manual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are all Windshield Wipers the Same?

A1: No, windshield wipers are available in a range of options, including winter blades and conventional blades. Also, there is a lot of difference in the size and rubber quality. It would be great to read the best winter wiper blade reviews before buying one.

Q2: Can I Replace the Windshield Wipers Myself?

A2: Yes, replacing the wiper blades does not require professional expertise. Also, it’s an easy task that you can do without any help. Just read this “how to change windshield wiper blades” article, and you are all set to replace the blades.

Q3: How do I prolong the Lifespan of my Wiper Blades?

A3: There are several methods you can use to reduce the wear and tear of the wiper blades. Never run blades on a dry windshield. Also, use the right type of blades depending on the climatic conditions in your area.

Windshield Wipers Replacement Guide

Next, lift the wiper blades up in winter so that they don’t freeze in foul weather. These easy hacks will help you keep the blades in great shape, and they will work properly for longer.

Q4: How to Replace Windshield Wiper Blade Rubber? Is it Possible?

A4: Yes, that’s possible with the help of rubber refills. If you think that the entire wiper blade is fine and just the rubber has worn out, you can replace it with a refill. However, it’s a painstaking task and requires precision.

Here’s a video you should watch to learn to replace the rubber refill.

Q5: Should I change the Windshield Arm with the Wiper Blades?

A5: No, there is no need to change the windshield arm unless it is damaged. Replacing the upper-head that we call the “wiper blades” is the only thing you need to do.

Final Thoughts

So, that’s how to change windshield wipers without any hassles! First, make sure to choose a compatible wiper that fits easily and cleans the entire windshield quickly. Always test the new blades right away after installing them to figure out the possible problems and fix them immediately.

Now you are all set, and it’s time to plunge into some action. If you have any queries related to wiper blades, or you are having any issues with installing the new set, drop your questions in the comments section.

Last update on 2024-03-28 at 19:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API