How to Change Windshield Wipers

Posted by topexwiper on September 12th, 2019

Tap each step to check off which ones you've completed

  1. Identify the size and type of the wiper blade you will be replacing. Your vehicle's owner's manual will identify which type you have, and some even have step-by-step replacement instructions specific to your vehicle.

    On some wiper blades, you can replace the rubber squeegee part with a new wiper blade insert, while others require the replacement of the whole blade.

  2. Identify the unlatching mechanism for the blade.

    Manufacturers have various hook designs. In some, you can simply pinch and pull to remove the blade. In others, you need to push a button or pull a latch to unhook.

  3. Unlatch the defective wiper blade.

    Some jiggling might be required. Wrap the bare arm or hook in a towel to prevent damage to your windshield if the wipers turn on or the arm smacks the windshield.

  4. Some replacement blades come with a rubber optimizer pad. Use this optimizer to clean the wipers before installing them.

    The optimizer solution helps remove debris, grease, oil, etc. from the rubber.

  5. Be sure to remove the plastic protector from the rubber side of the wiper blade.
  6. Latch the new wiper blades (reversing what you did to take the old ones off).

What Types of Wiper Blades Do I Have?


There are three styles of wiper blades:

1. Frame

These are the most common type of wiper blade and allow you to remove and replace just the rubber insert, which is the most cost-effective replacement. Frame-style blades tend to work well in most situations.

2. Winter

These blades adopt a similar design to the frame-style wiper blades, with one exception: They come with a rubber sheath over it so ice and snow can't collect. They are designed to withstand harsher weather environments.

3. Single Beam

These are a low-profile and aesthetically pleasing wiper blade that don't collect ice very easily. Single beams tend to be more expensive, and unlike the other types, they require you to replace the whole piece and not just the squeegee part.

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topexwiper
Joined: April 17th, 2018
Articles Posted: 18

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