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glassy blog post
Advice

How to Replace Windshield Wiper Blades

Kent Lansing
Aug 13, 2020
When it comes to windshield wiper blades, they work great until they don’t. Knowing how and when to replace them can do wonders for not only your safety but also your sanity while driving in the rain. 

Do My Windshield Wipers Need to Be Replaced?

If you’re not sure whether your wiper blades need replacing or not, check out our post When Do You Need To Change Your Windshield Wipers? If the answer is yes, come back to this page and we’ll walk you through it.

How to Replace Windshield Wipers

  • The first step in replacing a windshield wiper blade is to determine what size and type you will need. 
For obvious reasons, a Ford F-350 Superduty is likely to require a different size blade than a Toyota Prius. Your vehicle owners manual will include these details, however, a quick google search will also do the trick. It is important to note, not all wipers operate or are replaced the same way. For some, you will be replacing the entire arm mechanism, but for others, you will only be replacing the blade insert. 
  • Find the unlatching mechanism and remove the installed blade.
Depending on the manufacturer, there are a few different styles of mechanisms used to attach wiper blades. For some, you may need to push a button or pull a latch, while others may simply require a pinch and pull. When in doubt, Google is your best friend. 
  •  Clean off the new blade.
Trust me, the irony is not lost on us. However, if your wiper has spent any significant time in packaging or at the store, it has likely accumulated some dirt, grease, or other substances that aren’t going to help your windshield to look squeaky clean. Take a moment to wipe it down before installing it.
  • Install the new wiper blade or blade insert.
Reversing what you did in step one, install the new wiper blade or blade insert.
  • Acquire a cold drink.
It’s hot out, you deserve it. If you’ve somehow managed to damage your windshield in the process of replacing your wipers you should do two things. Firstly, submit your story to ‘Ripley’s Believe it or Not’, and secondly, contact us here at Glassy to help get you fixed up and back on the road safely.