How to change windscreen wipers yourself

Replacing windscreen wipers is a worthwhile investment in safety and replacing them yourself is easier than you think.

As autumn arrives, temperatures drop, evenings get darker and the weather turns rainy. This combination can reduce driving visibility, especially on unlit roads. In addition, if the windscreen wipers are not working properly, visibility is even worse in rainy weather.

Windscreen wipers usually need to be replaced depending on how often and how they are used, and do not cost a lot of money. Replacing them is therefore an inexpensive insurance policy that is worth taking out once a year. Some even recommend replacing windscreen wipers every time you change your tyres - twice a year.

A sure sign that windscreen wipers need replacing is when they start to make a squeaky noise. Of course, there can be different noises coming from the car and some sounds are worth paying more attention to than others. The squeaky sound from windscreen wipers is one of the most common (and easiest to fix) noises in cars.

Signs that windscreen wipers need replacement

• The windscreen wipers make a loud noise even when wiping a wet windscreen.
• Wet streaks remain on the windscreen.
• The rubber on the wipers is cracked or hardened.
• Windows do not get clean.

Fortunately, windscreen wipers are easy to replace yourself, and they don't cost a fortune. Replacing old wipers with new ones takes just a few minutes and requires no special technical skills.

Most modern cars have an indicator light to tell you when you need to change brake pads, oil or similar parts - but not windscreen wipers, unfortunately. That's why you have to pay attention to them yourself.

Windscreen wipers use different attachment mechanisms depending on the make and model of the car, but are usually removed by lifting the plastic part upwards and pulling the wiper out, or by squeezing one or two plastic buttons.

The most traditional version has a hook on the metal arm of the wiper to which the wiper fits. The plastic clamp ensures that the wiper is firmly attached. Therefore, loosening the windscreen wiper requires tilting it upwards. In cars where the windscreen wipers are released by squeezing the plastic buttons, there are usually clear metal holes in the wiper stems.

Normally, windscreen wipers are easy to access, but in some modern cars they are moved to a low position when not in use. In such cars, the windscreen wiper service mode must be enabled before replacing the wipers. This is done either with a separate button or in the car's menu system. Refer to your car's owner's manual for more information before starting the replacement procedure.

Also remember that many cars have different length wipers on the right and left side. Therefore, make sure that you install the wipers correctly.After replacing the windscreen wipers, it may be a good idea to assess the paint finish of your car. It's always a good idea to keep it protected - and especially in autumn, as this is the start of the season when salt and dirt can damage it.

How to change the wipers

There are many different types of windscreen wipers, but the two most common are hook arm and straight arm. Below we show how to assemble these step by step:

How to replace hook-and-loop windscreen wipers

1. If necessary, place the windscreen wipers in the service compartment.
2. Before starting, lift the windscreen wiper arms to point upwards.
3. Lift up the plastic holder.
4. Remove the old windscreen wiper by pulling it downwards.
5. Place the new windscreen wiper on the hook.
6. Attach the windscreen wiper by pushing down the plastic holder.
7. Place the windscreen wipers gently against the windscreen.
8. If necessary, remove the windscreen wiper service compartment.

How to replace straight-stem windscreen wipers

1. If necessary, place the windscreen wipers in the service compartment.
2. Before starting, lift the windscreen wiper arms to point upwards.
3. Press the plastic button on the top or side of the windscreen wiper arm.
4. Remove the old windshield wiper.
5. Place the new windscreen wiper in place, making sure that the plastic buttons fit into the slots.
6. When they snap into place, you will hear a clicking sound.
7. Carefully place the windscreen wipers against the windscreen.
8. If necessary, remove the windscreen wiper service compartment.

Finding the right windscreen wipers

Buying windscreen wipers can seem overwhelming, as windscreen wipers come in many different lengths with different attachment mechanisms.

However, most shops have made it easy for you to find the right windscreen wipers - either by car model or car registration number.

If the shop does not have an easily accessible overview or the possibility to enter the registration number, the shop staff will usually be able to help you find the right windscreen wipers.

Before you go to the shop, check the length of your car's current windshield wipers. Then you'll get the right length of new windshield wipers.