Just noticed when I went to replace my wipers that the windscreen thing on the drivers side doesn't come off Is there any way to keep it? Can I slide in a new replacement blade? If so, how. Need some advice. I like the stock look too much to go with anything else...

Thanks

 

If you must have the stock blades, get thee to a dealer. If it is less than three years old, the dealer will replace them for free. If it's more than three years old, the dealer will trade you a set of replacements for some cold hard cash (or plastic.) The replacement inserts come with instructions and a tool used in the replacement process. You'll also need a pair of pliers, preferably needle nose. It's not a difficult process, but you'll also need a knife (or similar) to trim down one of the inserts (can't remember if it's driver or passenger side.)

 

Driver's side. Just trim it down to where it looks good, don't try and do it based on any measurement.

 

The dealer...go figure

Well considering my car is past its warranty, I'll just have to make a 2 hour trip some time to get replacement. In the meantime, I'll just use the standard replacements from Wally World

 

Since I was beyond the 36,000 mile 3 yr service warranty when my 1st set of wipers finally needed replacing, I just went to my local parts store and picked up some Trico wiper inserts, P/N's 46-190 and 46-180. They fit perfectly (needed minimal work with some needle nose pliers). Oh - total bill was $7.36.

 

carbon fiber windshield wipers at autozone 4 bucks

 

Good info, copi! The last (and only) time I looked for inserts, it was snowing and I was on mile 2,000 of a 3,000 mile road trip, so I gave in and just bought the whole blade.

Want-a-mini, if you want OEM (no need with copi's info) you can get them from Classic MINI for 20% off OEM price, which would defray the shipping charges.

 

Do you just bend back the tabs and slide the replacement in? Thanks for all the responses guys!!

 

I usually just replace the entire wiper/blade assembly... I think the "wing" on the driver side OEM blade is meant to keep the blade in contact with the windshield at higher speeds and reduce chatter. However, I've not had any problems with the non-OEM replacements that do not have the attached wing. You'd have to be driving at excessive speeds to cause the blade to 'lift' off the windscreen.


rock on,

-boognish