Replacing windshield wipers is one of the simplest car maintenance tasks. It requires absolutely no tools and will take you no more than 5 minutes.

See below how to measure correctly the dimensions you need and how to remove and install each type of connector.

1. How to measure your wiper blades correctly

Before making a purchase, you need to make sure of the length. Even if you know your car model, measuring manually is the safest way:

1. Lift the arms: Move the wipers away from the windshield so they stand upright (if your car requires them to be put into "Service Mode", consult the manual).
2. Measure the rubber: Take a tape measure or ruler and measure the length of the blade from end to end.
3. Record all 3 measurements: Measure separately the Driver, Passenger, and Rear window wiper (if there is one). Dimensions are usually expressed in millimeters (e.g. 600mm) or centimeters (e.g. 60cm).

(Tip: It is normal for the driver-side wiper to be noticeably larger than the passenger-side one).

2. The golden rule before you start (Windshield protection)

CAUTION: When you remove the old windshield wiper, only the bare metal arm will remain upright. This arm has a very strong spring. If it slips and hits the glass without the rubber, there is a serious risk of cracking the windshield.

The mechanics' trick: Before you start removing it, place a folded towel on the windshield, right under the arm. That way, if it falls, it will hit softly.

3. How to change them, depending on the connector

Find below the type of connection your car has and follow the steps.

Classic hook (U-Hook)

The most common type of connection.

Removal: Turn the blade slightly perpendicular to the arm. Press the small plastic tab (or clip) located inside the joint. While holding it down, push the wiper downward (toward the base of the arm) to unhook it from the "U".

Installation: Pass the end of the "U" arm through the opening of the new wiper. Pull it firmly upward (opposite to before) until you hear the characteristic locking "click".

With button (Push Button)

Very common in European models.

Removal: Press firmly the visible square button located on the top of the joint. While pressing it, pull the wiper straight out (away from the arm).

Installation: Slide the new wiper into the arm until the square button pops into the hole and clicks.

Side clip / Tabs (Pinch Tab)

Removal: Grab the two plastic "tabs" that protrude on the right and left side of the wiper base. Press them inward at the same time (as if pinching them) and pull the wiper forward to remove it from its holder.

Installation: Align the new blade with the arm and push it inward until the two tabs pop outward and lock into place with a "click".

Sliding from above (Top Lock)

Removal: Usually there is a small button or groove on the back of the connector. Press it or slightly lift the back of the blade. Then slide the wiper straight (parallel to the arm) to remove it from the rail.

Installation: Insert the new blade onto the top of the arm (into the rail) and push it back by sliding until it locks into place.

Straight fitting (Bayonet)

Removal: Locate the release lever or pressure point on the top or side of the joint. Press it and pull the wiper straight out, removing it from the arm blade like a sword from its sheath.

Installation: Slide the straight arm into the slot of the new wiper until you hear the safety "click".

Side Pin (Side Pin)

Removal: Locate the plastic safety clip next to the horizontal pin. Depending on the model, press the clip or lift the lock and then pull the wiper to the side, removing it from the "pin" (peg).

Installation: Slide the hole of the new wiper onto the pin and push it inward until the plastic clip locks the pin in place.

4. Final check

Once you’ve clipped on the new wiper blades, remove the towel from the windshield and carefully lower the arms onto the glass.

Get into the car, turn on the ignition (without starting the engine), and spray plenty of windshield washer fluid. Let them make 3-4 passes to make sure that:

1. They do not hit each other (check for the correct length).
2. They wipe evenly, without leaving gaps.
3. There is no metallic noise or looseness in the joints.