How to Replace a Windshield Wiper

Replacing windshield wiper blades is one of the easiest things you can do to maintain your vehicle. It is vital that you have windshield wiper blades that are in good condition on your vehicle. Most people don't realize that they need a new set until they get caught in the rain, and it is too late. You should replace your windshield wiper blades yearly, or sooner if they show signs of wear and tear.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New windshield wiper blades.

1. First you will need to lift the windshield wiper blade arm to be able to remove the wiper blade. Use caution whenever the wiper blade arm is raised. It is best to lay a folded towel on the windshield so that if the wiper blade arm slips it does not fall and crack the windshield. The wiper blade arm has a fairly strong spring on it, and can easily fall with enough force to damage the windshield.

2. Next, turn the wiper blade until it is at a 90 degree angle to the windshield wiper blade arm. You will notice that the wiper blade arm has a hook on the end that looks like a "J". (It will be upside down when the wiper blade arm is raised). The hook holds a clip that is attached to the wiper blade.

3. At the bottom of the clip is a tab that you will need to depress with one hand. Now take the other hand, and while the tab is depressed, push the wiper blade down towards the hood of the car. When it is unsnapped slide the wiper blade arm out of the wiper blade. It will be easier if you push the clip at an angle to the wiper blade and then slide the wiper blade off of the arm.

4. To install the new wiper blade, push the clip at the same angle on the new wiper blade as you did when you removed the old one. Now slide the new windshield wiper blade down onto the wiper blade arm. Slide the hook onto the clip on the new wiper blade and make sure that it snaps into place. Return the wiper blade to its normal position parallel to the wiper blade arm, remove the towel, and lower the wiper blade arm back to the windshield. Repeat the process for the other windshield wiper blade.

Tips & Warnings

• When you remove your old windshield wiper blade, match it with the new blade to make sure that they are the same length.
• Inspect your windshield wiper blades regularly. Be sure to look for cracks in the rubber, and tearing.
• Replace your wiper blades as soon as they show wear.
• Be extremely careful whenever you have the windshield wiper blade arms raised. Place a towel under them to prevent the wiper blade arm from falling on the windshield and breaking it.
• Do not leave windshield wiper blade arms raised unattended.

[paigeturner]

on 8/20/2009 I needed to learn how to do this! I always have some one else replace my wipers.

[sabrinacareer]

on 8/8/2009 ah good tips on how to replace a windshield wiper. I will try it for sure-thanks

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 7/11/2009 I'll try this next time I need to replace my wipers. They fool me every time and I end up having to get some guy to help.

[Mindee94]

on 5/22/2009 Great pointers! Especially being careful in not dropping the arm on the windshield or using a towel. A bad day could turn to worse real fast, lol.