How to Replace Windshield Wipers

Windshield wiper blades are an important safety feature on your vehicle, and your first line of defense when the weather impairs your vision. Having quality wiper blades, and replacing them when needed, will help keep your windshield clean, free from rain, snow, and debris, and keep you safe on the road. When it’s time to replace your vehicle’s windshield wipers, stop by your local O’Reilly Auto Parts store to find the right wiper blades for your vehicle. The parts professionals at O’Reilly Auto Parts will also install your new wipers for free with purchase if you decide you’re not comfortable doing this yourself. Learn how to change your wiper blades with these helpful steps and DIY video.

  1. Tools & Materials List
  2. Step by Step Instructions
  3. Additional Resources

Tools & Materials

Safety Glasses Safety Glasses

Gloves Gloves

Wiper Blades Wiper Blades

Step-By-Step Instructions to Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades

Replacing your vehicle’s windshield wiper blades is a simple maintenance task that can usually be completed in very little time once you understand the necessary steps for the job. If you’re not sure when to change your wiper blades, refer to your vehicle’s owners manual for regular maintenance intervals. It’s usually a good idea to replace your wipers about every six months, before spring and winter when rain or snow are most common. If your wiper blades are damaged or need to be replaced before the recommended time, replace them as soon as possible to keep your windshield clear and maintain your safety on the road. It’s also a good idea to replace your wiper blades in pairs, as they experience the same wear over time.

These steps will demonstrate how to install windshield wiper blades on a 2002 PT Cruiser and a 2014 Chevy Equinox, but procedures are similar for most vehicles. Before starting this job, take a look at your owners manual or service manual to make sure you are following the correct steps for your vehicle. You should also follow the steps on the packaging of your replacement wiper blades to ensure the proper adapter is used and that they are assembled correctly. If you don't feel comfortable doing this job yourself, we can refer you to a professional technician, or we can replace your wiper blades for free at any of our stores.


How to Replace Windshield Wiper Blades: Steps

Lift wiper blades

Step 1: Lift the Wiper Arms

Lift up on the wiper arms so that the wiper blades aren’t resting against the windshield. Doing this will give you easy access to the blades and the clips that secure the wipers on your vehicle.
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Removing windshield wipers that attach with a j-hook style

Step 2: Remove Your Wiper Blades

There are two ways to remove your wiper blades. Follow these steps according to your vehicle’s specific wiper blade connection type.

Wiper blades that are attached to J-hook style wiper arms:

Start on the driver’s side. After pivoting the blade, push the clip back toward the wiper arm. Slide the blade down toward the windshield. Once it’s disengaged from the hook, the blade can be removed.
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Removing wiper blades that attach with clips

Wiper blades that are attached with clips:

Start on the driver's side of the car. If you’ve got wiper blades that attach with clips, you’ll either press in on each side of the clip or depress the tab on the top to release the old blade.
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Replacing windshield wipers that attach with a j-hook

Step 3: Install Your New Wiper Blades

Wiper blades that are attached to J-hook style wiper arms:

Position the new blade so that it can be slid down into place on the hook. As you pull the blade toward the end of the arm, you'll hear it click into position. Repeat this process on the passenger side.
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Replace windshield wipers that attach with a snap

Wiper blades that are attached with clips:

Once you've slipped off the old blade, carefully slide the new one into position until you hear it snap into place. Repeat on the passenger side. The variety of clips included in the wiper blade package may or may not be needed for proper installation. Refer to the instructions that came with your new wiper blades to determine the appropriate adapter for installation.
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New windshield wipers on car

Step 4: Lower the Wiper Blade

Pivot the blade back against the arm, and lower it to the windshield. If you've changed your wiper blades and still have poor windshield visibility, your windshield may be especially dirty and need to be cleaned for the blades to work as they should. Learn how to clean your windshield properly with our How-To resources to help maintain your visibility.

Do It Right: Make sure to lower the blade gently to your windshield. If you lower it forcefully or let it snap into place on its own, it can damage your windshield.

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Free Windshield Wiper Installation at O’Reilly Auto Parts

If you need to replace your windshield wiper blades, but aren’t comfortable doing so yourself, stop by one of our locations. When you purchase a pair of windshield wiper blades at O’Reilly Auto Parts, one of our parts professionals will install your new wiper blades for free. In addition to wiper blade installation, we also offer free bulb installation, battery testing, and more helpful free store services at O’Reilly Auto Parts.


Additional Resources

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.