Texas weather can takes a toll on your vehicle’s windshield wiper blades and make them wear out quickly.

It’s a part of basic auto maintenance to inspect your wiper blades regularly and have them replaced in the spring and fall. However, most of us skip this inexpensive maintenance step and, unfortunately, wait to change them only after we find ourselves driving in a sudden downpour without a clear view of the road.

So, if your wipers are leaving streaks and not cleaning properly or if the blades look brittle or have small, jagged edges, then it’s probably time to replace them. It’s easy and it just takes a few minutes to change them with new wiper blades or refills. Also, don’t forget that some vehicles also have rear wipers; these should be changed at the same time.

Make sure you top off your washer fluid while you’re at it. This way, you can drive assured that your wipers can handle what the weather might throw their way.

How to change your windshield wiper blades yourself

Replacing windshield wiper blades on your own and can save money. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Windshield wiper blades or refills? It’s your call. However, if the finish looks faded, for example, then it’s a good idea to go ahead and replace the entire wiper blade.
  • Windshield washer fluid. Don’t cut corners, always use windshield washer fluid. Regular water won’t clean your windshield properly.
  • Small funnel
  • Soft cloth, old towel or t-shirt
  • Small tape measure

Here are the steps

Before you begin these steps, first inspect your windshield for small cracks or chips that could tear the replacements. While you’re doing that, check your owner’s manual for the location of the windshield washer fluid reservoir and any special instructions for removing the wiper blades.

  1. Don’t assume that both wipers are the same size. Measure each wiper blade.
  2. Read and follow the instructions that came with your new blades or refills because details vary by manufacturer. Carefully lift the wiper assembly off the windshield. Locate the end with a fastening clip.
  3. With the wiper arms fully upright, spread a towel old t-shirt to protect to windshield it from accidental contact with the exposed wiper arms.
  4. Carefully compress the wiper blade refill clip.
  5. Pull the wiper blade refill lengthwise out of the wiper assembly.
  6. Insert the new wiper blade refill into wiper assembly.
  7. Secure the fastening clip. Push the clip into the last wiper assembly mount until it clicks into place.
  8. Clean the wiper blade before placing on the windshield glass. Dampen a soft, clean cloth with wiper fluid.
  9. Lower the wiper blades down to their normal position and remove the towel or t-shirt.
  10. Open the hood and top off the windshield fluid reservoir with wiper fluid if necessary. Test the system.

If you have a question about auto repair or auto maintenance, just give us a call or stop by one of First Tire & Automotive’s three convenient Fort Bend County locations today.