by B. Leslie Baird

Created on: December 15, 2010   Last Updated: December 17, 2010

Windshield wipers blades should be replaced whenever they are no longer functioning at optimal performance. Summer heat and ice in the winter cause wiper blades to deteriorate. Fortunately replacing windshield wiper blades in not usually difficult and few tools are needed if any.

Wiper blade size:

Purchase the correct size wiper blade for your vehicle. It is usually best to measure the existing blades on the vehicle. Auto parts stores will usually have reference materials available for determining the correct blade length and style but the process can be confusing.

Blade replacement:

The windshield wiper blade package should come with a kit included that will adapt the blade to the exact wiper arm style of the vehicle if it is not a common type. There will also be an instruction sheet that may or may not make any sense to even experienced do it yourself repair enthusiasts.

Start the replacement by gently lifting the blade arm away from the windshield. Remember that the arm itself is metal and it should not be allowed to contact the window glass without the blade installed to prevent scratches. There should be a small tab on the underneath side of the wiper arm. Depress this tab and pull the wiper blade, from the middle of the blade, to the bottom of the wiper arm. This action should remove the old blade. Some wiper blade arms will have two tabs, one on either side of the connector.

On some occasions the wiper arm and release tab may have become rusty and difficult to depress. A small pair of pliers or a screwdriver can be used to depress the tab but this must be done carefully to avoid damage to the windshield. Carefully lay the wiper arm back down and prepare the new blade.

Now look at the area of the wiper arm where you removed the old blade. This section is a plastic clip, one end is flat and the other end is curved at the top. Turn the clip slightly until the curved portion is accessible. Look at the middle of the wiper blade and find the connection piece. This will extend out from a flat plastic or metal bar with a curve or hook on the end.

Finally line up the open hooked end on the wiper blade with the curved end of the plastic clip on the arm connection. The hook will need to move over or above the curved clip and then slid into place. Pull up on the wiper blade firmly so that the clip slides into the hook. It should click into place securely. Double check that the blade is not loose. Repeat this process for the other wiper blade if it is being replaced as well. Replacing both blades at the same time is usually best. Turn on the windshield wipers briefly to be sure that the blades are secure. If they are not, immediately shut the wipers off and check that the blades hook snapped onto the plastic clip completely.

The best time to replace windshield wiper blades is a time when they are not in desperate need of replacement. Trying to replace the blades during a downpour or snowstorm just does not make the job easier. Many auto parts stores and repair shops will replace your blades at little to no cost if the blades are purchased through them. This is an alternative if doing the job yourself appears too difficult.

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