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How to change your wiper blades

Overview

Clear visibility in wet or muddy conditions is essential, and if your windscreen wiper blades are leaving streaks, squeaking, or missing spots, it might be time to replace the wiper blades. Luckily, it’s a simple D.I.Y. task that doesn’t take long, and it’ll make a huge difference the next time you’re driving in the rain. Here's how to change your wiper blades at home. 

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Tools and materials

    Steps

    1. 1

      Check the blade sizes

      Before you start, you’ll need to figure out what size wiper blades your car uses. The sizes can vary between the driver’s side, passenger side, and rear window, so it’s important to check each one. You’ll usually find this information in your vehicle’s manual or on the packaging of the new wiper blades. Most packaging will list compatible makes and models, so be sure to match them up before purchasing.
      Instruction about windshield wiper instructions
    2. 2

      Lift the wiper arm

      Once you’ve got the right replacements, lift one of the wiper arms away from the windscreen. It should click into a locked, upright position. Keep a firm grip on it as you work - the tension in the arm means it can snap back quickly, and if it hits the glass without a blade attached, it could cause damage. If you’re not fitting the new blade straight away, rest the wiper arm gently on a towel or cloth to protect the windscreen.
    3. 3

      Remove the old wiper blade

      Most wiper blades are attached using a hook fitting—commonly referred to as a J-hook. Look for the small clip or tab where the blade connects to the arm. Press or slide the tab, then carefully slide the wiper blade downwards toward the windscreen to unhook it. Some may need a little wiggle to come loose, but avoid forcing it. Once removed, set the old blade aside and keep the wiper arm protected until you’re ready to install the new one.
      Remove the old wiper blade
    4. 4

      Attach the new blade

      Take your new wiper blade and slide it into the arm’s hook fitting. You’ll hear a click once it’s locked in. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it’s properly secured. When you're confident it’s in place, slowly lower the arm back onto the windscreen.

      Repeat the same process for the passenger side wiper. If your vehicle has a rear wiper, don’t forget to check and replace that one too. Blade sizes are often different, so double-check your manual or product packaging to make sure each blade fits correctly. 

      Attach windshield wiper blade to windshield wiper arm
    5. 5

      Give them a test

      Once all the wiper blades are in place, hop into your car and give them a quick test. A few sprays of washer fluid and a few passes across the windscreen will let you know everything is working properly.
      Test the wiper blades by spraying water and a few passes across the windscreen
    6. 6

      Now that you’ve changed your wiper blades

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    Health & Safety

    Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

    Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.