Why You Need to Change Your Rear Wiper Blade Regularly
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t give much thought to your rear wiper blade—until it’s too late. But did you know that a faulty rear wiper blade can significantly impact your visibility while driving, especially in rainy or snowy conditions? It’s true! The rear wiper is just as important as the front ones when it comes to keeping your windshield clear. Over time, the rubber on the blade can become worn, cracked, or even torn, making it ineffective at clearing away rain or snow. This could lead to poor visibility, which is, of course, dangerous.
The thing is, wiper blades don’t last forever. They’re exposed to all sorts of elements—sunlight, rain, snow, dirt, and even bird droppings. All of these can cause the rubber to deteriorate. So, how do you know when it’s time to change your rear wiper blade? If your wiper is leaving streaks, skipping, or making a squeaking sound, it’s probably time to replace it. Don’t wait for the next heavy downpour to remind you that your wiper isn’t working as it should.
Replacing your rear wiper blade regularly helps ensure that you can always rely on it when you need it the most. A small maintenance task like this can make a big difference in driving safety. After all, good visibility is essential for safe driving, and your wiper blades play a crucial role in that. So, whether you’re dealing with a rainy day, a dusty road trip, or just regular wear and tear, keeping your rear wiper blade in top shape is essential.
Tools and Materials Required to Change a Rear Wiper Blade
Before you dive into replacing your rear wiper blade, it’s important to prepare the right tools and materials. While the process is relatively straightforward, having the right items on hand can make the job easier and faster. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New Rear Wiper Blade: This is the most important item. Make sure you choose a wiper blade that’s specifically designed for your vehicle’s rear window. Wiper blades come in various sizes and shapes, so it’s crucial to get the right fit. You can usually find this information in your vehicle’s owner manual or by checking the size of the current blade. If you’re unsure about which size to choose, check out our guide on How to Choose the Right Rear Wiper Blade Size for Your Car.
- Flathead Screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver is often used to gently pry off the old wiper blade. If your vehicle has a wiper arm that requires some manipulation, this tool comes in handy for safely removing it without causing damage.
- Clean Cloth: It’s always a good idea to clean your wiper arm and rear windshield before installing the new blade. A clean surface ensures the new blade performs at its best. Wiping away dirt and grime will also prevent any unwanted scratches.
- Replacement Pin (Optional) : Some wiper arms require a special pin or clip to hold the blade in place. If this is the case, you’ll need to have the appropriate pin ready for installation.
- Rubber Lubricant (Optional): While not always necessary, applying a small amount of rubber lubricant to the new wiper blade can help improve its performance and extend its lifespan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Rear Wiper Blade
Changing your rear wiper blade is a relatively simple task that you can easily do yourself in just a few minutes. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to change rear window wiper blade:
Step 1: Lift the Wiper Arm
Before you start, make sure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is turned off. To begin, lift the wiper arm away from the rear windshield. It should easily move upward. Be cautious not to let the wiper arm snap back onto the glass as it could cause damage.
Step 2: Remove the Old Wiper Blade
Next, locate the release mechanism on the wiper blade. Depending on your vehicle, this could be a small clip or a button that you need to press. Some wiper blades may have a hook system, while others use a pin or screw to hold the blade in place. Gently press the release mechanism and slide the old wiper blade off the wiper arm.
If the wiper arm has a small pin or screw, use your flathead screwdriver to carefully remove it. Be sure to keep the pin or screw in a safe place because you may need it when installing the new blade.
Step 3: Install the New Wiper Blade
Now, it’s time to install the new rear wiper blade. Start by lining up the wiper blade with the hook or attachment point on the wiper arm. Slide the new blade into place, making sure it’s securely fastened. If your vehicle uses a pin or screw system, attach it and tighten it gently.
If your wiper blade includes a protective cover or plastic packaging, remove it before installation. This ensures that the blade will make full contact with the rear window.
Step 4: Test the Wiper Blade
After the new wiper blade is installed, lower the wiper arm back onto the rear windshield. Now, it’s time to test it! Turn on your vehicle’s wiper function to make sure the blade is wiping effectively without streaking or making noise. If you notice any issues, double-check that the blade is properly installed and make sure it’s the right size for your vehicle.
Step 5: Clean Up
Once you’ve confirmed the wiper is working correctly, give the rear window a quick wipe to remove any debris or fingerprints. Make sure to store your old wiper blade and any leftover parts properly in case you need them later.
Changing your rear wiper blade doesn’t take long, but it can make a big difference in your safety on the road. Regular maintenance of your wipers ensures that you always have a clear view of the road, especially in poor weather conditions.
For a more detailed visual guide on how to replace your rear wiper blade, check out below YouTube video created by EdBwoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing a Rear Wiper Blade
While changing a rear wiper blade is a simple task, there are a few common mistakes that people often make. Avoid these errors to ensure a smooth and successful replacement:
- Choosing the Wrong Size Blade: One of the most common mistakes is selecting a blade that doesn’t fit your vehicle. Wiper blades come in various sizes, so it’s crucial to double-check the size before purchasing. Using the wrong size can result in poor performance and even damage to the wiper system.
- Not Removing the Old Blade Properly: Some people try to force the old blade off without releasing the attachment mechanism. This can break the clip or damage the wiper arm. Always ensure you’re releasing the blade the right way to avoid any mishaps.
- Installing the Blade Incorrectly: Another mistake is not properly attaching the new blade to the wiper arm. If the blade isn’t securely in place, it may fall off during use or fail to clean the window effectively. Double-check that the attachment is tight and secure.
- Neglecting to Clean the Wiper Arm and Window: While it may seem like a small detail, cleaning the wiper arm and rear window before installing the new blade can improve its performance. Dirt or debris left on the wiper arm can cause the new blade to wear out quickly or leave streaks on the window.
- Using Old or Damaged Wiper Blades: Sometimes, people may try to use old or damaged blades that they have lying around. Always use a new, high-quality wiper blade for the best performance.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be able to change your rear wiper blade quickly and efficiently, ensuring your rear window remains clear and streak-free.
Discover CLWIPER: Your Trusted Wiper Blade Manufacturer
When it comes to high-quality wiper blades, CLWIPER stands out as a trusted manufacturer, offering a wide range of products, including soft wiper blades, frame wiper blades, multifunctional wiper blades, and rear wiper blades, covering 95% of the cars on the market.
Why Choose CLWIPER?
✅ Strong Production Capacity – With a monthly capacity of 800,000 units, we ensure stable supply and fast delivery.
✅ Superior Product Quality – Our wiper blades provide streak-free wiping, noise-free operation, and long-lasting durability, maintaining high performance in all weather conditions.
✅ Certified & Eco-Friendly – CL WIPER products hold ISO9001 certification, use environmentally friendly materials, and offer excellent value with competitive pricing.
✅ Customization Available – We offer laser logo engraving, personalized branding, and customized packaging to support your business.
✅ Exceptional Service – Enjoy free samples (up to three pairs) shipped within three days, quick responses within 5 minutes, and global support within 8 hours.
Looking for a reliable wiper blade supplier? Contact us today for premium products and seamless service!
