How Do You Change Car Windshield Wipers

As your vehicle gets on in years you may wonder, how do you change car windshield wipers? Basic car maintenance includes even the simplest of things, such as how to change car windshield wipers. In general, many individuals think that changing car windshield wipers is a major repair task, but it really is not. The majority of windshield wipers built for vehicles have an electric motor connecting to a metal windshield wiper arm. The windshield wiper arm extends over the entire windshield and holds the wiper blades tight against the windshield. The wiper blade is usually a metal or plastic device that holds a rubber insert. Here are the steps to follow to succeed in changing car windshield wipers:

1. You will need to buy the new windshield wipers at a local auto parts store or auto dealer. Make sure you purchase a suitable one for your vehicle.
2. Remove the old windshield wipers by lifting the wiper arm up off the windshield so that it is easier to work on. Then determine how the wiper blade attaches to the wiper arm. Press or slide the release tab that connects the wiper blade to the wiper arm. Then pull firmly to separate the wiper blade from the wiper arm. The wiper may be easier to remove if it is perpendicular to the wiper arm. There are three different mechanisms commonly found on cars today. The universal slide is the most common wiper blade design. Press the lever on the bottom of the connection, and then slide the wiper down towards the base of the wiper arm. The side pin is made of a seven millimeter pin that is at a right angle to the wiper arm. Press the spring lock button with a small flathead screwdriver, and then pull the wiper blade away from the wiper arm. The bayonet arm has a locking lever. Lift the locking lever, and then slide the wiper blade away from the base of the wiper arm. That is, slide the wiper blade away from the car.
3. Install new wipers. Follow the directions that come with your new windshield wiper blades demonstrating by pictures how to install the wiper blade on your car. Most blades come with adapters to fit almost any type of connector. For the universal slide, place the blade just below the hook. Push the blade into the hook until it snaps into place. For the side pin, press the hole onto the pin. It should lock automatically. For the bayonet arm, lift the locking lever, and this time slide the wiper blade back down to the base of the wiper arm (slide it towards the car).
4. Test the new wiper installation. Use your car's windshield mister to see that your wipers are working properly. The windshield wipers should operate smoothly without squealing, chattering or streaking. If so, then your windshield wiper replacement has been a success and you have accomplished changing your car windshield wipers.