How to change your wiper blades
FAULTY windshield wiper blades can be a nuisance, but they can also be safety hazards.
Whether it’s the screeching sound they make, or the fact that they leave streaks and spots on your glass when you operate them, auto mechanic and car enthusiast Roshane Holness says these are signs you need to change your wiper blades.
He goes on to say that if you can’t get to your auto repair specialist, or if the cost to have them replaced is a little outside your purse’s capabilities, don’t panic, you can change them yourself by following these steps:
1. Assess the wiper blade
You need to inspect the wiper blade to see which part of it needs to be replaced. It is generally recommended that you change the entire blade each time you replace a set, especially if you notice that the wiper blade isn’t resting against the glass with enough tension or has become bent.
However, there are instances, when you might be able to change one of the two parts that make up the mechanism, which are the arm and the wiper blade that attaches to the metal arm.
2. Be sure to purchase the right blades
Unfortunately, when it comes to wiper blades there is no one-size-fits-all. You should always remember to check the size of your wiper blades, especially since they are different in length.
Make sure that you tell the auto parts sales representative your car’s make and model — this way he or she should be better able to assist.
3. Position the wiper blade for replacement
When changing the wiper blade, you must first pull the entire wiper assembly arm away from the windshield and into a standing position.
Now lift the wiper and turn the blade perpendicular to the arm, then locate and press the release tab and pull the blade down gently. You don’t want to drag it because you don’t want to damage anything.
Caution: Once that is done, turn the blade parallel to the arm and pull it off. Once the metal is exposed and in the standing position, it can snap back and the force can cause damage to the windshield. To protect against this, you can gently place the metal arms back against the windshield until you’re ready to put on the new ones, or place a rag underneath the metal frames before placing them against the windshield.
Now, repeat the same procedure with other wiper arms.
4. Replace the old wiper blade
To install the new wiper blades, first make sure that you have the right wiper blade for each side. To insert the new blade, start parallel to the arm, thread it into the slot, then turn it perpendicular. Finally, pull it slightly up to lock it in place. Once this is done, you should hear a click or you should feel the blade being snapped into place.
5. Test the wiper blade
To make sure that the blade has been properly installed, squirt some water on your windshield and turn on the wipers to test them out and ensure they are functioning as they should.
— Penda Honeyghan
