Is your windshield wiper leaving streaks and making it hard to see in the rain? Are you looking for an easy way to install new wiper blade refills? Installing refills is easy if you know the right method.
First, you must get the right-sized wiper refills from a shop. Then, disconnect the wiper blade and remove the old refill. After that, you can insert the new wiper refill and replace the blade. Lastly, test the wipers to see if everything is working properly.
Easy Steps to Install Wiper Blade Refills
You can easily replace old refills by following these simple steps. Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Get the Right Wiper Refills
First, you need to purchase the correct wiper refills.
- Width and Length: Using a measurement tape, measure the length and width of your wiper blade from one edge to the other on the blade. Also, measure the distance between the claw of the blade and the strip holding the rubber.
- Match the Size: Buy refills that match the sizes of the existing wiper blades from an auto parts store. If the refills don't fit perfectly, get the closest size possible and trim them to the desired length with a knife.
- Ensure Proper Width: Ensure the refill's width matches your wiper blade. A wider refill will be difficult to fit, and a narrower one can expose the metal frame to corrosion.
Step 2: Disconnect the Wiper Blade
Removing the wiper blade from the wiper arm is a good idea to make the process easier and prevent accidental damage. Here’s how to do it:
- Lift the Wiper Arm: Remove the wiper arm from the windscreen and position it vertically.
- Remove the Blade: Turn the wiper blade until it is perpendicular to the wiper arm. Next, push the tab on the connector and slide off the blade. If the blade has a clip, push it inward with your flat-head screwdriver before sliding off the blade.
- Lower the Wiper Arm: Lower the wiper arm onto the windscreen with the blade removed.
Step 3: Remove the Old Refill
Now, it's time to remove the old wiper refill. Follow these steps:
- Release the Metal Clip: Push the metal reinforcing clip at the end of the rubber blade using the pliers.
- Slide Out the Rubber: Pull the rubber strip away from the blade claws when the clip is released. The rubber will strip off along with the two side metal rails. Hold on to these metal rails because they are necessary for the new refill.
Step 4: Insert the New Refill in Your Wiper Blade
Now, you’re ready to install the new refill:
- Install the Metal Rails: Mount the metal rails from the new refill. These metal rails have hooks that secure the refill in place.
- Position the Refill: Check to ensure that the metal rails curve according to the shape of the wiper blade. Insert the new refill into the wiper blade and seal it well beneath the blade claws.
- Trim Excess Refill: If the refill is longer than necessary, cut it down to the right size with scissors or a knife.
- Fix the Refill: Use the pliers to insert the reinforcing metal clip back and properly secure the new refill.
Step 5: Replace the Wiper Blade
Replace the wiper blade on the arm after the refill is in place:
- Align the Blade to the Arm: Lift the wiper arm and open the tab connector on your wiper blade.
- Put the Blade on the Wiper Arm: If the adapter has a clip, push it back with the flat-head screwdriver. Fit the wiper blade onto the arm until it snaps on.
- Verify the Connection: Press the wiper blade to see if it has been attached.
Step 6: Test the Wipers
The final stage will be to test the new wiper refills:
- Turn On Wipers: Turn on your car's wipers and see how well they work.
- Check Performance: Ensure the wipers operate smoothly without squeaks, streaks, or skipping. If everything works fine, then you have successfully replaced wiper refills.
Is it Better to Replace the Wiper Blades or Refill?
The choice to replace wiper blades with complete units or a refill is a matter of personal needs and budget. Full wiper blades provide better performance and stability but are slightly more expensive. Refills cost less and need to be replaced more often for best performance.
How Long Do Wiper Refills Last?
Wiper refills usually come in sets and last around 6-12 months, depending on usage and weather conditions. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the best performance replacement interval. Don't wait until your wipers start streaking or squeaking; regular replacements are good for better driving safety and clear visibility.
How to Measure Wiper Blade Refill?
To measure a wiper blade refill, operate the wipers once to stop them. Then, measure from the sweep line to the closest point of the windshield frame. Make sure the measurement is perpendicular to the sweep line. The passenger and driver sides may have different lengths.
Conclusion
All in all, installing wiper blade refills becomes easy when you follow the right method. First, measure the length and width of your wiper blades to ensure you have the right refills. Then, detach the blade from the arm and remove the old refill.
After that, install the new refill and fix the wiper blade onto the arm. Finally, test the wipers to see if they work properly without showing streaks. If replacing wiper blade refills seems challenging, you can get professional help from auto glass repair specialist at Blue Diamond Auto Glass.
