Windshield wipers are made of rubber, so they will wear out after a few months of wiping snow, rain and dust from your windshield. You can take your car to a garage to have it replaced or you can do it yourself. The way you do this is applicable to most models.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Prepare
Step 1. You need to know which part of the windshield wiper to replace
A windshield wiper consists of three parts, namely: the rubber strip that wipes over the windshield, and two metal arms. When you replace a windshield wiper, you basically only replace the rubber part that wears slowly because it comes into contact with water and cold.
Step 2. Buy new strips
Measure the old strips in advance and note the dimensions, so that you know how big the new ones should be. Buy new strips from a garage and make sure that the new strips you buy are the correct size.
- Never assume that the left and right wipers are the same size. Usually one of the two is slightly longer than the other.
- You can buy strips for about 15 euros each. You also save labor costs by assembling it yourself.
Method 2 of 3: Install the new strip
Step 1. Take the metal arm and hold it slightly away from the glass
You should be able to put the arm straight. Be careful though, because the metal arm can kick back because of the spring in the arm, which could damage your window.
Step 2. Detach the old strip
Locate where the strip attaches to the metal arm. There should be a small plastic plug that keeps the strip in place. Press and release the old strip.
- Some strips are held in place by pins, rather than a hook.
- Make sure to hold the squeegee with one hand while doing this.
- You can use a folded towel to prevent the wiper from hitting your window.
Step 3. Install the new strip
Now mount the new strip where you just got the old one. Turn the strip until you feel the hook is in the right place. Now lay the wiper flat on your windshield again.
Step 4. Now also mount the second new strip
You do this in the same way as with the first windshield wiper. In both cases, make sure you have a strip with the correct dimensions.
Method 3 of 3: The moment of change
Step 1. Check if you see any tears or cracks in your windshield wiper or the strip itself
Old windshield wipers harden, causing cracks, especially in hot climates. If a strip no longer feels like rubber, you should replace it.
Step 2. When it rains, you should pay close attention to your windshield
If you see that your windshield wiper is no longer working properly, you should replace it.