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1 Step 1: Identify your blade size
Step 1: Identify your blade size
Use the AutoZone or O'Reilly online lookup — type in your year/make/model and it shows the exact size. Or measure the existing blades with a tape measure (usually 22"/16" or 24"/18" on most sedans).
AutoZone online lookup
autozone.com — enter year/make/model under wiper blades section. Tells you front + rear sizes exactly.
Measure existing blades with tape measure
Edge to edge of the rubber. Round up to nearest inch. Most cars are mismatched front sizes (e.g., 22" driver, 18" passenger).
Check your owner's manual
Lists OEM sizes. Less convenient than the lookup tools but reliable.
2 Step 2: Pick blades — beam vs traditional
Step 2: Pick blades — beam vs traditional
Beam blades (one curved piece, no frame) are the modern standard — better contact in wind, longer lasting. Traditional frame blades are cheaper but rattlier.
Rain-X Latitude Beam blade (top pick)
Universal-fit beam blade. Comes with the most common adapters. ~$15-22 each.
PIAA Silicone Si-Tech (premium silicone)
Silicone rubber instead of standard rubber — lasts 2-3× longer. ~$22-30 each.
3 Step 3: Lift the wiper arm
Step 3: Lift the wiper arm
Pull the wiper arm UP from the windshield until it locks in the up position. Be gentle — the arm pivots on a spring, snapping back can crack the glass.
Warning: Don't let the arm snap back against the windshield. The spring tension can crack the glass. Hold it up or place a rag/towel between the arm and the glass while you work.
Pull arm up until it locks vertical
Some cars require pushing a release lever. Most just lock when fully extended.
Put a folded towel under the arm (safety)
If the arm slips while you're swapping, the towel cushions it. Cheap insurance.
4 Step 4: Remove the old blade
Step 4: Remove the old blade
Most blades have a small tab or button to press. Press it, the blade slides off the arm. The connection mechanism varies — your new blade's packaging shows the matching install method.
Press the release tab, slide the blade off
Different brands use different connectors — J-hook (most common), pinch tab, side pin. Match what's on your car.
Take a photo of the old connection before removing
Reference for installing the new blade with the right adapter. Saves the 'which way does this go' confusion later.
5 Step 5: Install the new blade
Step 5: Install the new blade
Match the right adapter (your new blade's package will have 4-6 plastic adapters; you only need one). Snap onto the arm, slide into place, gently lower the arm back onto the windshield.
Pick the matching adapter from the new blade package
Universal blades include adapters for every common arm style. Match the old one's shape.
Click into place — listen for the click
If it doesn't click, it's not seated. Push firmly until the latch engages.
Lower arm gently (don't slap)
Use one hand to control the descent. Snapping it down chips glass over time.
6 Step 6: Test in the rain (or with washer fluid)
Step 6: Test in the rain (or with washer fluid)
Spray washer fluid and run wipers. Clean clear sweeps means good install. Streaks = adapter clip not fully engaged, or you got the wrong size. Don't rely on the dry rubber working — only the wet wipe shows real performance.
Spray washer fluid and run full wipe cycle
If clean, you're done. Don't dry-wipe (scratches windshield).
Re-do if streaking persists
Either the adapter isn't seated or the size doesn't fit perfectly. Re-seat or exchange.
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