1. Disconnect the Battery (Optional but Recommended): This prevents accidental short circuits.
2. Lift the Wipers: Raise the wiper arms away from the windshield. You may need to gently pull them up.
3. Locate the Wiper Arm Nut: Look at the base of the wiper arm where it attaches to the wiper arm spindle. You'll see a nut. This nut is usually underneath a small plastic cap which may need to be carefully pried off. Be cautious not to damage the cap. Use a small flathead screwdriver if needed.
4. Unscrew the Nut: Use a wrench or socket (the exact size will depend on your vehicle but is likely to be a common size like 10mm or 13mm). Turn it counterclockwise to loosen and remove it.
5. Remove the Wiper Arm: Once the nut is off, the wiper arm should slide off the spindle. There might be some resistance. Gently rock or wiggle it while pulling to get it off.
6. Repeat: Repeat steps 3-5 for the other wiper arm.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: The nut might be rusted or seized. Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) applied a few hours beforehand can help loosen things up. If the nut is stubborn, use a wrench that provides a good grip and apply steady pressure to avoid stripping the nut or damaging the spindle.
* Plastic Caps: Be very careful when removing the small plastic caps covering the nuts. They are easily broken.
* Wiper Arm Position: Note the position of the wiper arms before removing them. This will help you replace them correctly. Often, there's a notch or mark to align them.
* Spindle: Inspect the wiper spindle for any damage or wear.
Reinstallation: Reinstallation is the reverse of the removal process. Make sure the wiper arms are correctly aligned before tightening the nuts.
If you're uncomfortable working on your car yourself, it's best to take it to a mechanic. This is a relatively simple task, but damage to the wiper arms or spindle can be costly to repair.
