How to Change Windshield Wipers – A Step-by-Step Guide

Worn-out windscreen wipers can seriously affect visibility. It makes a dreadful screeching noise and leaves scratches on the mirror. Wipers are one of those parts on a car that are often forgotten about until you really need them – like during a sudden rainstorm or when it’s snowing and sleeting at the same time. In this guide, we will simply explain when and how to change windshield wipers. Also, share tips on prolonging their lifespan to keep yourself safe and MOT compliant on the road. 

Let’s get started! 

Key Takeaways: How to Change Windshield Wipers?

Worn windscreen wipers reduce visibility, can fail your MOT, and make noises, so check for streaks, smears, or brittle rubber, replace blades every 6–12 months, and maintain properly.

• Replace wipers every 6–12 months – Streaks, smears, squeaks, or chatter are signs your blades are worn. UK weather can wear rubber quickly.

• Check for signs of wear – Streaking, smearing, ineffective cleaning, unusual noises, or brittle rubber indicate replacement is needed.

• Step-by-step replacement – Lift the wiper arm, remove old blades, fit new ones securely, lower arms carefully, and test for smooth operation.

• Avoid common mistakes – Don’t use the wrong blade size, let the arm snap back, skip cleaning the windscreen, or forget rear wipers.

• Prolong blade lifespan – Keep the windscreen clean, avoid running wipers dry, lift arms in icy conditions, and remove grit or debris from blades.

• MOT compliance – Faulty wipers can fail your MOT. Always ensure blades clear the windscreen fully for safe driving.

• Easy rubber replacement – Wiper rubber can be swapped without replacing the entire blade; slide out the old rubber and fit the new one securely.

• Check wiper fluid – Use the correct windscreen washer fluid in the reservoir; UK winter may require an antifreeze formula.

• Scratch prevention and removal – Inspect blades for grit that may scratch the glass; minor scratches can be polished out, major ones need professional repair.

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How to Know When Wipers Need Changing?

As you know, a windscreen is essential for visibility and enables you to drive confidently in every kind of weather, especially during the UK’s unpredictable weather. Before any major accident, you should be aware of when to replace windscreen wipers and prevent potential MOT failure. Here is what you should know:

a. Streaking or Smearing:

If you ever notice streaks or smears on your car’s windscreen, it likely means that the wipers are worn out. This usually happens when the rubber has lost its grip, got a bit grimy, or just gone brittle.

b. Unusual Noises:

If you notice unusual noises like squeaks, chatter, or a juddery sort of sound, it means your blades aren’t sliding smoothly. And it’s probably the rubber stiffening up or a bit of grit caught in there.

c. Ineffective cleaning:

Ineffective cleaning is also a sign of defective wipers. The wipers fail to clear the windscreen entirely, leaving patches of water or dirt. This could be caused by worn-out blades or an incorrect blade size.

d. Ages of blade:

Even if they look alright, don’t fool yourself. Six to twelve months is usually all you get before the rubber starts losing its edge. 

How to Change Windshield Wipers? Step-by-Step Guide

Windscreen wiper replacement is a straightforward task that you can also do by yourself. Here is how you can change it:

1. Lift the wiper arms

First, carefully lift the wiper arms away from the windscreen until they stay upright. This gives you a clear view and easy access to the blades. Don’t rush if the arm snaps back, it could scratch your glass. 

2. Remove the old wiper blades

Find the release mechanism on the blade. It might be a small tab or a hook, depending on your car. Press or slide the release mechanism, then gently slide the blade off. Take it slow, and keep your fingers clear, those arms can be springy.

3. Install the newer wiper blades

Now, take off any protective covers from the new blades. Make sure they’re the right size and type for your vehicle. First, push the blade into the arm hook until it locks and you hear a click. Second, make sure the blade is aligned with the windshield and isn’t twisted. And apply the same process for the other blade also. 

4. Lower the wiper arms

Slowly bring the arms back down so they rest evenly on the windscreen. Uneven pressure can cause streaks or, worse, scratches.

5. Test the new wipers

Now it’s time to test the newly installed wipers. Before testing, make it clean the windshield and then give the wipers a quick run. Carefully check that they move smoothly and clear the screen without streaks or odd noises. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Wiper Blades

Windscreen wiper blade replacement is a straightforward process, but few common mistakes can damage your car. Here is what you need to know:

a. Not checking the correct blade size

Using the wrong size can damage the windscreen due to poor contact and streaking. Before replacing, always check your vehicle’s manual or use an online tool to confirm the correct length.

b. Letting the wiper arm snap back:

Forgetting to clip the blade fully into place or attaching it upside-down can lead to ineffective wiping or the blade detaching while driving. Ensure you hear a click or feel the blade lock securely.

c. Skipping a windscreen clean

Putting new blades on a grubby screen can cause streaking and wear the rubber faster. Give the glass a wipe before fitting new blades.

d. Forgetting rear wipers

Rear blades are often ignored but are important for safe reversing and all-round visibility. Check them too and replace if needed.

Simple Tips to Prolong the Lifespan of New Blades

New blades do a better job and last longer if you treat them right. A few simple habits can keep your windscreen clear, whatever the weather.

• Keep the windscreen clean from dirt, leaves and road salt because it can wear down the rubber quickly. 
• Don’t run the wipers on a dry windscreen; otherwise, it wears the blades due to friction. Always spray some washer fluid before running the wipers.
• When it’s icy or snowy, lift the arms before scraping the windscreen. It stops the rubber from tearing and keeps the arms from bending.
• Check that pebbles, grit, or leaves stuck on the blade can scratch both the rubber and your windscreen. Have a quick look now and then and remove anything that’s caught.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to put windscreen wiper fluid?

The washer fluid goes in the reservoir under the bonnet. Look for a blue or black cap with a windscreen symbol. Fill it to the marked level and don’t pour over the level. Use a fluid suitable for the UK winter, like antifreeze, to stop it freezing.

How to replace windshield wiper blade rubber?

It’s simple to replace the windshield wiper blades’ rubber. First, lift the wiper arm away from the screen, and then slide the old rubber out of the frame. Next, insert the new rubber, ensuring it fits securely. And lastly, lower the arm back gently and test the wiper.

How to remove wiper scratches from windshield?

Light scratches can be polished out using glass polish or cerium oxide with a soft cloth. You should keep in mind to rub gently in a circular motion. However, for deeper scratches, you have to repair with a professional or need a complete replacement. 

Can faulty wipers fail an MOT?

Yes, a faulty wiper can fail your car’s MOT. It is a must that wipers should clear the windscreen properly. Inspectors check that the driver has good visibility and that the blades work efficiently. 

How often should I replace wipers in the UK?

There is no fixed duration for the replacement of the wiper. However, it is necessary to replace your wiper blades every 6-12 months or sooner if you notice streaks, smears, squeaks, chatter, or cracks. UK weather, rain, snow and road debris could wear the rubber quickly, so regular checks are a good idea.

Final Thoughts: How to Change Windshield Wipers?

Perfect and clear wipers are important for safe driving, especially with the UK’s unpredictable weather. You should regularly check for it and replace it when the rubber wears out. However, replacing them is a simple job that saves you from poor visibility and MOT failures. By choosing the right blades, fitting them correctly, and caring for them, you’ll keep your windscreen clear all year round.