If you are looking for an oil change Alexandria VA, you might as well take care of other maintenance issues at the same time. An oil change Alexandria VA shop can refill fluids, install a new battery, and install new windshield wipers. It is surprisingly complicated to replace windshield wipers. If you want to understand what the technicians are doing when they are installing new wipers, read on.

How to Change Windshield Wiper Blades

If the windshield wiper blades on your car are old and worn, it’s important that you replace them as soon as possible. You know the blades need to be replaced when the rubber is cracked and dry. If the blades aren’t removing enough water from your windshield, you should replace them immediately for safety reasons. This holds true even if the rubber does not appear worn. Thankfully, the blades aren’t expensive nor are they difficult to install.

Step 1: Identifying the Replaceable Part

On close inspection, a windshield wiper may appear surprisingly complicated. It is composed of three pieces: the wiper arm, the part that holds the blade, and the blade itself. The actual blade is the only rubber piece, and it is the only piece that actually contacts the windshield. The technician will only replace this part, not the rest of the assembly.

Step 2: Getting the Blades

Windshield wiper blades can be surprisingly expensive. It’s probably not a good idea to have your blades replaced at the dealership, as they will likely charge a lot for the blades and labor. Doing it yourself can save you time and money, but you’ll have to find the correct blades for a good price. An internet search might reveal the correct size for your car. Your local auto parts store may have the right item unless your car uses an uncommon size. Either way, it may be a good idea to have a pro do it for you.

Step 3: Positioning the Wiper

When the technician has the new blades, they will start by pulling the wiper away from the windshield until it is perpendicular to the glass.They will be careful when they let the wiper go. It should stay in this position, but it may snap back if it isn’t pulled it out far enough. It’s probably not the worst idea for them to protect the glass with a folded towel.

Step 4: Removing the Old Blade

Look closely at the point where the blade holder meets the wiper arm. There will be a small plastic hook holding the old blade on. The technicians will move the blade holder up until they can unhook the blade and gently remove it.

Step 5: Installing the New Wiper

Insert the new blade into the wiper holder. As long as the technician has the correct size, it’ll slide in smoothly. They will then move the blade holder back to its previous position. It should snap back into place. Next, they’ll repeat the procedure for the other blade.