How to Replace Wiper Blades

Windshield wipers keep your car’s windshield clear of debris, dirt, or any other elements that make it difficult to see the road. Due to this, it is essential to have properly functioning wiper blades to ensure your safety when operating your vehicle.

It is recommended that you replace your wiper blades at least once a year or when they show signs of wear or damage. It doesn’t take much time or effort to swap out cracked or old wipers for fresh units, so why not DIY and save some money by learning how to change wiper blades?

Note: The guidelines presented in this article serve as educational and entertainment material only. If you need exact repair instructions and recommended safety procedures on how to replace wiper blades, please refer to a repair database or repair manual.

How to Replace Wiper Blades

Each wiper assembly consists of an arm and the wiper blade itself. Typically, you only need to replace the wiper blade.

How to Remove Wiper Blades

1. Move the wiper assembly arm away from the windshield. Turn the wiper blade perpendicular to the arm.
2. Now that you have placed the wiper blade in the right position, it’s time to remove it. Look for a release tab under the blade at the spot between the blade’s rubber insert and the metal arm. Push down on the tab while pulling the wiper blade away from the hooked portion of the arm. If you need a visual of how to do this, most wiper blades will have instructions on the back of the package.
3. Carefully return the wiper arm to its resting position on the windshield to prevent it from snapping back down and hitting the glass. Cushion the arm with a cloth or rag to keep it from scratching the windshield.
4. Repeat the same process to remove the other windshield wiper blade.

How to Install New Wiper Blades

1. Remove the new wiper blades from their packaging. Make sure you install the correct blade on the corresponding wiper arm (sometimes the wipers are different lengths).
2. Raise the arm slated to receive its new wiper blade. Look for the hinge on the blade and move it until the hinge assumes a position perpendicular to the rest of the part.
3. Align the blade with the wiper arm and guide the arm’s hook inside the blade’s hole. Now, pull the wiper blade up and keep at it until you hear the click of the arm’s hook locking onto the blade.
4. Lower the windshield wiper to its resting position. Check the wiper’s angle to make sure the blade is correctly installed.
5. Repeat this process again for the other wiper arm to wrap up the installation process.

How to Test the New Windshield Wipers

Once you’ve finished installing the new windshield wipers or rubber inserts, test them for any problems. Pour wiper fluid over the windshield and run both wipers. They shouldn’t leave any marks as they brush the fluid off the glass.

Sometimes, new windshield wipers can leave streaks on the glass. Soak a cloth in mineral spirits and use it to wipe the rubber insert⁠. You can also use alcohol wipes.

If you still see streaks after cleaning the rubber inserts, check to see if you installed the correct blade on each wiper arm. Make sure that the wiper follows the correct orientation.

Helpful Tips for Changing Wiper Blades

To get a better idea of the process, watch the following video on how to change wiper blades:

Some wiper blade models have blades of different lengths to compensate for their position on the car. Keep this in mind when you search for replacement parts, and measure the lengths of your car’s wipers to serve as a point of comparison for the new wiper blades.

Where to Get New Wiper Blades for Your Vehicle

Driving in the rain becomes more annoying when you’ve got a pair of crusty wiper blades that can’t do their job right. Worn-out wiper blades might sound like a small issue, but they can affect your vision when driving under low-visibility conditions.

Order an OE-grade wiper blade replacement here at CarParts.com without any hassle. We have a great selection of direct-fit wiper blades that pass the highest quality control standards from the most reputable names in the industry. Our parts are made from only the best materials available, so you’re sure that they’re built to last.

Find the perfect pair of wiper blades by entering your ride’s specifications into our vehicle selector. This will narrow down our wiper blade catalog to compatible ones for your car, SUV, or truck. It only takes a few clicks to place your order and a few days to get it delivered straight to your doorstep.

Here at CarParts.com, we are committed to giving our valued customers the best prices available, which is why our products come with a lifetime replacement and low-price guarantee. Work on your repairs without going over budget when you shop from us. 
Check out our wiper blades today!