How to Install Windshield Wipers

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Max Winters | Last updated May 27, 2024 12:55 PM ET

Whenever you're stuck in a downpour or snowstorm you're likely very grateful for your windshield wipers. When they break or become worn out, it can make driving hard or even dangerous. It's a key part of auto care and knowing how to replace windshield wiper blades can save you time, money, and a headache in hazardous conditions. Good news, the installation process is easy.

Step 1. Purchase New Wipers

There are different-sized wipers. And ill-fitting wiper will not fit correctly and won't work well. Consult your owner's manual for the correct size or measure your current wipers with a measuring tape.
There are many kinds of windshield wipers: rubber, silicon, graphite-coated, and hybrid wipers. Any option will work for now, they simply perform differently for heavy use.

Step 2. Removing Wipers Old Rubber Blade

Lift the metal wiper arm away from the windshield so that it stands up. This is a good opportunity to check the metal arm for rust. A rusted wiper arm needs to be replaced.
Modern models use the small tab or button located on the underside of the wiper right where the flexible blade connects to the arm. Press this locking button/tab. These can stick a bit so be gentle yet firm.
The wiper blade will release and slide down and off of the arm (towards the windshield).
Note: Older vehicles may require a flathead screwdriver to disengage a pin holding the wiper in place. If using a screwdriver over your windshield, it's a good idea to cover the glass with a towel or even a jacket.

Step 3: Attaching Replacement Wipers

Align the new wiper blade with the hook on the wiper arm. The curved side attaches to the metal. The flat straight rubber edge faces out.
Slide the wiper blade up onto the hook-slot connector until the plastic clip or metal latch clip clicks into place.
Gently lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.

*Replacing the rear wiper blade is usually a similar process.

Step 4: Test the Blades

Turn on your vehicle's ignition to engage the wipers. Spray some wiper fluid onto the windshield if it is dry.
Test the wipers at various speeds to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Check for any streaks or missed spots on the windshield. This would indicate that the rubber blade is not laying flush with the glass. Check for debris, lay the wiper flat, and test again.

How often should you replace your wipers?

You'll need replacement wiper blades every 6 to 12 months. Surprisingly, windshield wipers in heavy use with frequent rain wear down at about the same rate as infrequently used rubber wiper blades in a hot, dry, sandy/dusty climate. Running the wipers over ice on your windshield also wears them down more quickly. Pro tip: Wiping down your windshield blades with a clean, damp cloth periodically can help eliminate road grime and help them last longer. Signs that it's time to replace them include streaking, skipping, or squeaking noises during operation. While not essential, it's never a bad idea to keep a set of replacement blades on hand just in case of faulty blades during poor weather conditions.

Do Rain-X Water Repellency wiper blades last longer?

Rain-X Water Repellency wiper blades are made with a graphite coating that makes rain bead up. This repels water better and decreases streaks. They are excellent for climatic conditions with frequent, heavy rain but they don't necessarily last longer than any other functional wipers. But they hold up as well as any high-end wiper blade for the same 6-12 month period. Like with anything, if the climate calls for heavy use, you'll see diminished wiper efficiency faster.

Can old windshield wipers be recycled?

Yes, many automotive retailers and recycling centers accept old windshield wipers for recycling. You can ask your local auto parts store if they have or know of a collection box. Since wipers are typically made of a combination of materials, including rubber and metal, they can be recycled to create new products or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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