Support>Owner Resources>Vehicle Maintenance>How do I change my windshield wiper blades?

How do I change my Ford's windshield wiper blades?

You can replace your windshield wiper blades using the instructions in your Owner's Manual.

Preparing to Change Your Wiper Blades

  • Get the new wiper blade inserts of the correct length. You can find your windshield wiper blade part number in your Owner's Manual. It will be listed under "Capacities and Specifications."
  • Park your vehicle and set the parking brake.
  • Grab a pair of needle-nose pliers, if required.

Changing Your Windshield Wiper Blades

Select which blade you would like to replace from the drop-down options below for guidance.

Note: Instructions may vary based on the year and model of your vehicle. Refer to the "Maintenance" or "Wipers and Washers" section of your Owner's Manual for instructions specific to your vehicle.

Front Wiper Blades

To replace the front windshield wiper blades:

  1. Turn the vehicle key to on, engine off, and turn on the wipers.

  2. Turn the ignition off when the blades are vertical on the windshield so they are both accessible.

    Note: You will be working with the wiper arm, which is usually metal, and the wiper blade insert, which is the rubber piece that fits into the wiper arm’s grooves.

  3. Carefully pull the wiper arms away from the windshield. When you pull far enough, they will lock into the service position, so you do not have to hold them.

    Note: If your wipers do not automatically lock into the service position, you may need to manually pull out the locking tab at the base of the wiper arm, where the arm connects to the pivot.

  4. Starting with the driver’s-side arm, turn the blade at an angle from the wiper arm.
  5. Squeeze the blade’s lock pin/tab on the bottom of the arm to release the wiper blade (a pair of needle-nose pliers can help with stubborn blades). Then, slide the blade out to remove it from the arm.
  6. Attach the new wiper blade to the wiper arm by sliding it through the wiper arm’s channel. Press it into place by pulling the tab through the bottom of the arm. When you hear the tab click, it is installed.
  7. Repeat steps 5 through 6 for the passenger-side blade.

Rear Wiper Blades

To replace the rear wiper blade:

  1. Grab the wiper arm with one hand close to the arm/blade joint and pull it as far away from the glass as possible. Hold it there until the next step.

    Important: Do not use excessive force because it can break the wiper arm at the heel.

  2. Grab the primary structure of the blade with the other hand close to the arm/blade joint.

  3. The wiper arm has a snap retention feature to receive a cross pin from the wiper blade structure. Grip tightly and press on the arm/blade joint from beneath and separate the blade from the arm. 

    Important: Avoid rotating the wiper blade structure and trapping your hand between the arm and blade.

  4. Attach the new wiper to the wiper arm and press it into place until a click is heard.

If you need further assistance, contact your Ford Dealer.

Additional Information

How do I know what windshield wipers I need to buy?

*Motorcraft is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company.