How to Replace Your Wiper Blades
A shocking study revealed that 2/3 teenagers behind the wheel have no training when it comes to basic car maintenance and roadside repair.
Furthermore, 60% of drivers don't even know how to change a flat tire.
No matter your age or gender, knowing basic car maintenance is absolutely essential. To that end, we've decided to create a blog post on one of the most important car care essentials out there: learning how to replace your wiper blades.
Knowing how to keep your wiper blades is absolutely essential not only for visibility but also for accident prevention. In fact, a recent article in Business Wire found that knowing how to replace your wiper blades could prevent over 1 million accidents -- every year.
Ready to learn what you need to know? Then keep on reading.
How To Replace Your Wiper Blades: The Basics
Before we get into the more specific steps of teaching you how to replace your wiper blades before a big trip or for any other reason, let's first cover a few of the basics.
Because your blades are rubber, they'll wear down much faster than other, sturdier parts of your car. They're a lot more susceptible to things like rain damage, snow, and even dirt and rocks kicked up by driving.
In general, it's a good idea to replace your wiper blades a minimum of once a year. However, if you live in a rainy or desert environment, you'll likely need to change them out about once every six months. If you're not sure if it's time for a change, then check to see if the blades are still functioning properly.
Do this by listening for any clicks or squeaks, as well as any streaks left behind by the blades.
To keep your blades functioning for as long as possible, try to park your car in a garage as much as possible. If there's a heavy rain or snow storm, lift up the blades to prevent sticking.
Step One: Get Your Measurements
The first step in learning how to change your wiper blades? Measuring to know exactly the size of replacement blade you'll need to pick up. Do the same for both your left and right wipers to avoid a problem.
Once you've got your measurements, then head to a reputable mechanic to purchase new blades. Remember to only buy blades from a trusted professional for best results.
Step Two: The Lift And Release
Once you have your new blades, it's time to actually install them!
Begin by lifting up the wiper off of the windshield. Then, find the place where the blade meets the rest of the wiper's arm. You'll notice a piece of plastic where the two meet.
Press down on the piece of plastic (or in some case, a small pin) to release the blade from the arm. If you're nervous about the spring loaded arm snapping back and damaging your windshield, you can always place an old towel over the glass.
Step Three: Install The Blade
Now that you've removed the old blade, it's time to install the new one. Don't be intimidated -- this process is a lot simpler than it might initially sound.
Remember the place where you removed your worn-down blade? Find it again.
Then, take your new blade gently in your hands and slowly slide and hook it into the rest of the arm, where the old blade was.
Don't move on until you hear the tell-tale "click" that lets you know that your new blade has locked into place. If you don't hear the click, try slowly and delicately wiggling the new blade or the rest of the arm.
Once you hear the hook, it's safe to put the wiper back down and remove any towel that you used.
Of course, once you've done one blade, you simply follow the exact same instructions on the other side.
Other Services To Consider
Now that you've learned how to replace your wiper blades, we know that you're likely thinking about other services and repairs that you might need to have performed on your car.
There are countless seasonal maintenance tips that you need to follow to stay safe on the road.
One of the most important?
Having your transmission checked.
In general, it's a smart idea to have it looked at about once every 60,000 miles. Of course, this usually isn't something that you can do on your own. We suggest bringing your car to a mechanic who can change the fluid for you.
You may also want to have your engine checked out, your brakes tested, and much more.
This is especially important if you've purchased a used car, because you may not always have the accurate information about the wear and mileage.
Where Can You Find A Transmission And Auto Repair Service You Trust?
Thanks to this post, you not only know how to replace your wiper blades. You also know the steps that you can take to keep them in great shape for as long as possible.
Remember, in a nutshell: always look for a parking garage, avoid bad weather, and check your wiper blades every time you change your smoke detector.
Feel like you don't quite trust yourself to change the wiper blades on your car yourself? Are there other issues with your car that you'd prefer to have a professional take a look at?
Remember, the longevity of your car -- and the safety of your passengers -- depends on the quality of the maintenance professionals you hire.
That's where we come in.
At AAMCO of Lee's Summit, we're dedicated to going above and beyond to keep your customers safe and happy while on the road.
Get in touch with us to learn more about the services and inspections we offer that can help to save you money and give you a smoother ride -- no matter where you're headed next.
