1. Gather Materials:
- New rear wiper arm
- Socket wrench set
- Flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool
- Clean rag
2. Park and Turn off the Vehicle:
- Park your Dodge Caravan on level ground and turn off the engine.
3. Open Rear Hatch:
- Open the rear hatch of the vehicle to access the rear wiper arm.
4. Locate Rear Wiper Arm:
- The rear wiper arm is usually located on the driver's side at the back of the vehicle.
5. Remove Plastic Covering (if present):
- Some Dodge Caravan models may have a plastic covering over the wiper arm nut. If so, use a flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool to pry off the plastic cover gently.
6. Loosen the Nut:
- Locate the nut that holds the wiper arm in place. It is usually located at the base of the wiper arm.
- Use the appropriate-sized socket wrench to loosen the nut, but do not remove it entirely.
7. Remove Wiper Arm:
- Use the flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool to pry the wiper arm up from the shaft by gently inserting it at the base. It might require a bit of force, but be careful not to damage the shaft or the wiper arm.
8. Clean Wiper Shaft (optional):
- While the rear wiper arm is removed, you can use the opportunity to clean the wiper shaft. Use a clean rag to remove any dirt or debris.
9. Install New Wiper Arm:
- Align the new wiper arm with the shaft and firmly push it down until it seats.
- Hand-tighten the nut to secure the wiper arm to the shaft.
10. Tighten the Nut:
- Use the socket wrench to tighten the nut until it is snug. Do not overtighten, as it can damage the nut or the wiper arm.
11. Reattach Plastic Cover (if applicable):
- If you removed a plastic cover earlier, reattach it by pressing it back into place until it snaps securely.
12. Test the Wiper:
- Close the rear hatch and test the rear wiper functionality by turning on the rear wiper switch. Make sure the wiper arm is firmly attached and moves smoothly.
Remember to dispose of the old wiper arm and any waste responsibly. Following these steps will help you successfully replace the rear wiper arm on your Dodge Caravan.
