How to Replace the Wiper Arm on a Car

You should remove and replace your windshield wiper arms if they are damaged or interfere with the proper wiping action of the blades. There are three commonly used methods to attach them to your car. We'll cover all three and get you back to driving in no time.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• In most cases a flat tip screwdriver will do.
• For older cars you might need a wiper arm removal tool.
• For late model domestics and imports a socket set is needed.

1. Inspect the wiper arm to determine what attachment method is used.
   
   There are three attachment methods. The first to be covered is a spring lever, the second example is spring pressure (older cars and trucks) and the last example is pressed on with a retaining nut.

2. 
   The wiper arm is bent up to allow movement of the locking nub

   Lift the arm and bend it ninety degrees. See the photo for an example.

3. 

   Using a screwdriver move the spring nub out.

4. 
   Chevrolet Pin. Much easier to move than the Ford.

   While holding the nub out, let the wiper arm down and it will lock into place about a quarter of an inch from the glass. You can lift the entire assembly off the car. To install, simply press the arm back on and slightly lift it so the nub goes back into the locking position. The first two photos were of a Ford Ranger. This photo is on a Chevy pickup. It's the same action mechanically, but it looks different.

5. 
   Spring Loaded (no nub) wiper arm circa 1963 with removal tool.

   Identify the type of wiper arm. A spring loaded arm used in the 1960's and 70's used spring pressure to hold the blade to the glass. If your car is older, and if you can lift/feel spring pressure with no release nub then you have one of these. See the photo of the 1963 Ford F100 Pickup. There is a windshield wiper arm removal tool next to it.

6. 
   Spring Loaded Arm engaged with Removal Tool

   Hook one end of the windshield wiper arm removal tool over the base of the arm. Use the palm of your hand to control the tool. With your fingers, grasp and squeeze both the arm and tool so they come together. This removes the tension and you can wiggle the arm off.
   
   To reinstall it you reverse the process. Unload the spring pressure and press the arm into place. This method is tricky, and until you get the hang of it can be frustrating. The first time you do it right you'll wonder what all the fuss is about. Hang in there.
   
   If you see what looks like a plug or nut cover then you have a pressed on arm with a retaining nut. Go to the next step to learn how to take it off.

7. 

   Using a flat tip screw driver, carefully pry off any plastic fittings on top of the wiper arm to expose the nut. Then, select the appropriate sized socket and remove the nut. Using a windshield wiper arm puller, or any small gear puller, remove the arm. If you don't have a puller, an angled pry bar will work as long as you are careful not to over exert. As a last resort, locate the spring joint and sharply rap it with a rubber mallet to loosen the arm.
   
   Installation is a breeze. Position the arm as you want it, put on the nut, and tighten it down. Do not over tighten.

Tips & Warnings

• To view the full size photos click on them, then right click on them and select view image.
• The tools mentioned here can be found at most any Harbor Freight or similar tool outlet.