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Windshield wiper blades — park wipers upright before a winter blade swap

Wiper size

Before swapping winter windshield wiper blades, park the wipers upright so you can reach the adapter without bending arms — one beat for safer wiper blade size changes.

park wipers upright before winter blade swap — related household tip photo
Photo: Gillfoto / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Changing winter windshield wiper blades is easier when the arms sit upright off the glass. That park position protects the windshield and gives you room to match wiper blade size without wrestling a flat arm.

Park windshield wipers upright before a winter blade swap

  1. With the ignition in the accessory or wiper-service mode your manual describes, lift or command the arms to the upright service position (or gently lift if your car allows).
  2. Swap one side at a time: note the adapter type, install the winter beam or cover style that matches your wiper blade size, and listen for the lock click.
  3. Lower the arms gently onto the glass — never drop them — then repeat on the other side.
  4. Spray washer fluid and do one slow wipe to confirm even contact before a storm drive.

Honest stop: if the arm spring feels broken, the adapter will not lock, or heated-wiper plugs are present, stop DIY and use a shop — do not force winter blades onto a damaged arm.

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