Windshield Wiper Blades

FAQs Concerning Wiper Blades

Are your windshield wipers streaking?
One of the earliest signs wiper blades need replacing is when the windshield is streaking. When working optimally, windshield blades will provide full contact as they move across the glass.
How often should I check my windshield wiper blades?
Even if you do not drive much, extreme temperatures can take a toll on your wiper blades. Checking twice yearly is an ideal rule of thumb, inspecting your blades as often you check belts, hoses and lights. While you're at it, inspect the rear wiper blade if your vehicle has one.
Can I change the wiper blades myself?
Windshield wiper blades are one of the easiest parts to change. You can replace a pair in just minutes.
Buy replacement windshield wipers online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowledgable Team Members help you.

Signs You Need New Windshield Wiper Blades

• Hazing or streaking on the windshield when moisture is present.
• The blades are no longer making full contact with the windshield when the wiper system is on.
• Unusual noise, such as chattering occurs when the wipers are active.
• The rubber is disconnecting from the blade arm and is cracked or split.

Wiper Blade Types

**Premium Windshield Wiper Blades **

• Also known as beam blades and found on most new cars
• Optimally designed for improved contact and aerodynamic efficiency
• Best suited to handle a variety of conditions: rain, sleet, dirt, and snow
  Hybrid Windshield Wiper Blades
• Offer the latest technological advancements in blade design
• Sleek style and peerless performance
• Aerodynamically superior, all-weather blades
  Standard Windshield Wiper Blades
• Your go-to blade in a standard layout
• Also available in traditional winter design in select stores
  Rear Windshield Wiper Blades
• Designed only for rear window use

How to Install Windshield Wiper Blades

Changing wiper blades is a snap, a task taking about five minutes for the front blades or half that time for the rear blade. The windshield wiper assembly consists of a lower wiper arm, an upper arm that attaches to the lower arm, and a rubber refill that makes contact with the windshield. Here's how to change the refill:
1: Measure each blade as they may be sized differently. Head to your local Advance Auto Parts store with that information.
2: Select the replacement windshield wipers. You have a choice of purchasing the refill only or the blade with the rubber refill. Popular brands include Rain-X, Trico, and Bosch. Consult with a store representative if you're not certain which type to purchase or if you have other questions.
3: Out with the old. Lay cloth or an old towel across the top of the windshield to protect it in the event that the wiper arm suddenly moves, scratching the glass. Pull back the wiper arm, pivot the blade so that it flips to the top, and locate the retaining clips, pinching same with needle-nose pliers. The refill should immediately slide out — keep one hand on the blade to ensure it doesn't snap back. You can put your pliers out of the way as you won't need them for this project again.
4: In with the new. Slide in the refill. Once the retaining clamp clicks into place, you're done. You might prefer to replace the blade in its entirety. If so, disconnect the button tab on the adapter clip and separate the wiper blade from the J-hook side of the wiper arm. Reattach the new blade by reversing the process.

How to Solve Common Windshield Wiper Blade Problems

Endless chattering.
Wiper blades are supposed to crisscross your windshield, making minimal noise. Constant chattering is annoying, but it is a sure sign replacement windshield wipers are needed.
One or more blades are not making contact with the glass.
The wiper frame may be bent or the windshield wiper blade itself may be worn. Repair or replace as necessary.
The washer fluid isn't getting the job done.
Windshield washer fluid should cover much of the windshield when activated. If it doesn't and you have enough fluid in the washer reservoir, inspect the sprays to determine if they're blocked. Wipe off the affected area with a clean rag to remove debris.
Buy replacement wiper blades online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowledgable Team Members help you.

Additional FAQs

How do I know which wiper blades to select?
Check our full line of Rain-X, Trico, and Bosch products.
How many types of windshield wiper blades are there?
There are four types for your consideration. Premium, hybrid, standard, and rear.
Am I neglecting my wiper blades?
You don't forget to check your motor oil or inspect your tires, so be as diligent about checking the windshield wipers.
How often should I check the rear wiper?
Along with your twice-annual inspection of the front blades, do likewise for the rear.
How hard is it for me to change my own windshield wipers?
Changing blades is easy! However, Advance Auto Parts offers free installation with your purchase at most stores.

Although drivers depend on their vehicles’ wiper blades to clear away rain, sleet, and snow, many wait to replace them until they need them the most. When wiper blades no longer make proper contact with the windshield surface, they can begin to squeak, chatter, skip, smear, or streak, reducing driving visibility. Wiper blades should be replaced every six months or as soon as you notice a difference in driving visibility. When inspecting your wiper blades, look for the following:

Broken frame – detachment of frame arms at joints or connection points

Metal Corrosion – especially at joints and claws

Visible cracks, tears, and missing pieces in the rubber squeegee’s edge

Flex rubber squeegee back and forth to see if it is still flexible. Aged squeegees will have difficulty conforming to the shape of your windshield and create streaks

Check squeegee wiping edge for rounded edges, which can prevent the wiper blade from making strong contact with the windshield

Tug to ensure wiper blade has been securely installed on the wiper arm. Check that the squeegee is secure in the wiper frame.