How to replace windshield wiper blades on your car

Swap worn wiper blades yourself in a few minutes and save a trip to the shop. This guide suits any driver with basic hand tools and covers picking the right blade length, releasing the old blade and fixing juddering wipers. No special skills needed.

How to Replace Windshield Wipers on ANY Vehicle (Easy), by Way of the Wrench on YouTube. 9 min 11 s.

Video length
9 min 11 s
Time to do it
15 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Check your wiper blades for streaks, chatter or torn rubber. If the rubber is cracked or leaves lines, it is time to replace them.

  2. Measure both blades from tip to tip, or look up the sizes in your owner's manual. Buy the same lengths and the same hook or pin fitting.

  3. Park on level ground and turn the ignition off. Lift the wiper arm away from the glass until it stands up on its own.

  4. Press the small tab on the connector under the arm and slide the old blade off the hook. On pin fittings, push the pin out of the blade.

  5. Slide the new blade onto the hook until it clicks into place. Tug it gently to confirm it is locked on.

  6. Lower the arm slowly back onto the glass. Never let it snap down, as it can crack the windshield.

  7. Repeat on the other side, then run the wipers with washer fluid to check for streaks and full contact.

  8. If the wipers judder, clean the glass and the rubber with glass cleaner and a cloth. Replace the blades if the rubber is hard or glazed.

Tips and common mistakes

Lift one arm at a time and keep a firm hold, because a released arm can slam onto the glass and crack it.

Check the connector type before buying, since hook, pin and bayonet fittings are not interchangeable.

Replace blades about every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you park outside in strong sun.

Top up the washer fluid with a proper screen wash mix rather than plain water to avoid smearing.

Questions

How do I know which wiper blades fit my car?

Measure the old blades or check the size chart in your owner's manual or at the parts counter. Match both the length and the connector type.

Why do my new wipers chatter across the glass?

Dirt or wax on the windshield or a bent wiper arm usually causes it. Clean the glass and rubber first, then check that the arm sits flat.

Can I replace just one blade?

Yes, but blades wear at a similar rate. Replacing both at once keeps the screen clear and saves you a second job soon after.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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