Replacing windscreen wipers

Replacing the windscreen wiper is, in almost all cases, an easy job that does not require an immediate trip to the garage. In this article, we provide instructions on how to replace windscreen wipers, as well as maintenance tips and background information on the wipers. 

Wiper operation

The wiper arm is connected to the wiper motor. The latter is responsible for the movement of the wipers. The last part is of course the wiper itself, which is mounted on the wiper arm. 

The task of the wipers 

The wipers should keep the driver's field of vision clear so that rain, snow and sleet, do not obstruct visibility too much. They should work quietly and not make unpleasant noises. In addition, they should not leave streaks.  

Extend the life by not abusing them

The windscreen wipers should not be misused as an alternative to manually cleaning the windscreen. If you have leaves, bird droppings or stubborn insects on your windscreen. Then it is better to remove them manually. This protects the rubbers and extends the life of the wiper blades. Of course, the windscreen wipers are also not a suitable tool for removing ice and snow from the windows. If you do not have a window heater, you should use the ice scraper, not the wipers. Heavy snow loads cause the arms to bend and at some point the wiper motor may burn out. 

How often should you replace the windscreen wipers? 

The information on the recommended replacement intervals for windscreen wipers varies greatly by brand and model. Some brands indicate 6 months, others up to 4 years. Generally, a set can last about 2 years. However, this does not mean that they should necessarily be replaced after 2 years. If you do not see any stripes, are satisfied with the wiping result and do not hear any squeaking or other noise, you can leave them in place. In this case, 4 years is often the maximum time. 

Replace hook and flat-blade wipers

The traditional wiper system is a so-called hook arm. As the picture below clearly shows, there is a hook in the wiper arm. If there is no rust on the wipers or arms, changing them is very easy: 

• Raise the arms
• Feel whether there is a little movement at the hook. If not, first spray a little bit of penetrating oil on it. This may need to be soaked in overnight. 
• If there is any movement, click the pallet in.
• Then turn the wiper horizontally and slide it down from the hook
• The new windscreen wiper place horizontally
• Push the wiper up into the hook until it clicks.

Now you have installed the new wipers and you are ready for another 2 years. 

The flatblades (Flat wipers) often have a sliding system. Bosch, for example, slides the wiper into the arm. Loosening and locking the wiper is also done with a little pallet that you have to push. Never use too much force because the arm can bend, or even break. A new wiper arm is much more expensive than a set of wipers. 

For the sizes, please check our wiper sizes page.