1. Preparation:
* Park on a level surface and turn off the ignition. This is essential for safety.
* Locate the wiper arm nut. This is usually a nut beneath a plastic cap on the wiper arm itself. Sometimes it's visible, other times you might need to pry off a small cap carefully with a flathead screwdriver.
* Gather your tools: You'll need a socket wrench (the size depends on the nut; check this beforehand if possible) and possibly a flathead screwdriver for removing a cap. A pair of pliers may also be helpful if the nut is stubborn. Some people use a wiper arm puller tool, but it's not always necessary.
2. Removing the Wiper Arms:
* Disengage the wipers. Make sure your wipers are not in the "park" position. If you can move the wiper arm by hand, it should be away from the windshield.
* Remove the nut. Carefully loosen and remove the nut using the appropriate socket wrench.
* Pull the wiper arm. Once the nut is off, you might be able to pull the arm straight off. If it's stuck, try gently wiggling or twisting the arm while pulling. Never force it. If it's resistant, you may need to use a tool like a wiper arm puller to gently leverage the arm free. A small amount of penetrating oil (like WD-40) might help loosen things up if the arm is seized.
3. Re-installation (In Reverse Order):
* Clean the wiper arm connection point on the transmission shaft before reinstalling the arm.
* Align the wiper arm. Make sure it's properly aligned before tightening the nut.
* Tighten the nut. Don't overtighten! This is important to avoid damaging the wiper arm or the shaft.
Important Considerations:
* Consult your owner's manual: Your owner's manual is the best source for specific instructions for your year and model of Lumina APV.
* Take photos: Before you start, take pictures of the process, especially the position of the wiper arms. This will help you put them back on correctly.
* Be gentle: Avoid using excessive force; if you are having trouble removing the wiper arms, stop and reassess the situation. You could be damaging something if you force it.
If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to do the job safely and efficiently.
