1. Lift the wiper arms: First, ensure your wipers are in the "off" position and not parked on the windshield. Lift each wiper arm away from the windshield. You may need to gently pry them up, but be careful not to break them.
2. Locate the nut: Underneath the wiper arm, you'll find a nut that secures the arm to the splined shaft. You'll likely need a socket wrench (usually 10mm or 13mm, but you should check a repair manual or online forum to be sure) to access and remove this nut.
3. Remove the nut: Carefully unscrew the nut counterclockwise. Once the nut is off, the wiper arm should come off the shaft.
4. Inspect the arm and shaft: Look for any wear or damage to the arm or the shaft. If the shaft is bent or worn, the wiper arm will likely remain loose even if reinstalled. If there's damage, the entire wiper assembly might need replacement. If there is excessive rust, you may need a penetrating lubricant to help loosen the connection.
5. Reinstall (if needed): If the shaft and arm are in good condition, simply reverse the process. Ensure the arm is correctly seated on the shaft before tightening the nut. Don't overtighten. Tighten the nut only until it's snug.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT is highly recommended. It will give you precise information on the size of the nut, torque specifications, and other helpful details.
* Online Forums: Search online forums dedicated to Pontiac Grand Prix or car repair. Someone might have pictures or videos showing the process for your specific model year.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable working on your car, take it to a qualified mechanic. Improperly removing or reinstalling the wiper arms could cause damage to the car.
If the wipers are just loose and not falling off, it's more likely a problem with the wiper linkage or the motor itself, not just the attachment nut. A loose nut is often a *symptom* of a larger issue. Addressing the underlying problem is crucial.
