Pickup Truck Repair DIY Blog Series: Replacing Windshield Wipers

September 15, 2022

You need to replace the windshield wipers of your vehicle regularly so that you will not run into any safety issues on the road. This is something that can be done by your diesel mechanic at your regular preventative maintenance appointments, or it is something that you can do on your own. Continue to read, and we will share how to replace windshield wipers on your own.

1. Clean your wipers 

Here's a way to save money. Let's suppose your wiper blades are working well and you do not hear any strange noises. What should you do if your wipers continue to smear dirt all over the windshield? Don't be concerned. You can clean your wipers by soaking a cloth or paper towel in rubbing alcohol and wipe the blades clean (for best results, clean the windshield too). This will prolong the life of your current blades for another month or two, after which you'll have to bite the bullet and throw them away.

2. Shop for replacement wipers 

So, you've decided that your blades need to be replaced. Go to your local pickup truck parts shop. Once you've arrived, you'll need to purchase the appropriate blades for your vehicle. You'll need to look for blades that are the right length and fit the connection locations on your wiper arms. Fortunately, many parts shops include printed recommendations in the wiper blade department that will direct you to the correct blades for your vehicle. Alternatively, if you have the patience to wait for delivery, most online parts suppliers will let you search for compatible blades by make and model.

3. Get into the correct position 

Climb into your pickup truck, turn it on, squirt some wiper fluid on your windshield to lubricate it, and start the wipers. Turn off the pickup truck as soon as the two blades reach their peak. Both blades' higher tips should be pointed towards your pickup truck's roof.

Familiarize yourself with the major components of your wipers before you complete setting your blades. The blade comes first. This robust frame houses the lengthy rubber strip that makes contact with your windshield. Each frame has an arm that swings the blade back and forth over the glass. Grab the arms and gently pull them forward until they're standing straight with their backs facing the windshield at a 90-degree angle.

4. Remove existing blades 

Ensure that each blade is hanging horizontally. After that, it's time to get out the owner's handbook. Wiper blades are connected to the arms in various methods by pickup truck manufacturers. However, most pickup trucks have a tab at the point where these two components connect. Generally, you may detach the blade by pushing the tab outwardly or inwards with your finger. Grab the blade and bring it parallel to the wiper arm while doing this. You'll eventually be able to remove it.

5. Lay arms back down for a minute

The old blades are removed, you will see a large, flat metal hook at the top of each wiper's arm. Although the arms of your wipers are likely to remain in place on their own, it's worth taking a moment to wrap a clean cloth around the hooks. The worst thing that could happen is for the arms to snap back down, resulting in a smashed windshield. Once the arms are wrapped, place them back down against the windshield.

6. Replace wiper blades 

Remove each fresh blade from its package if you haven't previously done so. Return the arms to an upright, erect posture. 

Wiper blades with the usual "hook-slot" attachment are simple to operate. Each blade has a tab dangling in the center of a long, rectangular slot at the bottom. Pull the blades upwards until you hear a "snap" and slide the arm hook up and over the tab. This indicates that the fresh troops are safe and ready to go into battle.

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