how to remove windshield wipers arm

How to Reset the Windshield Wipers

by Ryan Bauer

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When your windshield wiper position is incorrectly calibrated, the blades will come to a stop in the wrong orientation, such as in the middle of the windshield. Your wipers may need resetting due to loosening up over time, or being forced out of position when an abnormal amount of stress was placed on the wipers, such as clearing large chunks of ice. Resetting the wipers involves removing the wiper linkage and manually placing the blades in the right position.

Step 1

Remove the plastic cover between the hood and the windshield that hides the wiper motors and arms. The cover is held in place with clips. Insert a pry tool, such as a standard screwdriver behind the cover and gently twist to pop it out of place. Set the cover aside.

Step 2

Use a socket wrench to remove the nut located at the center of the wiper motor. This nut connects the arm linkage to the motor. Turn the wipers on, then back off, so the motor completes a full cycle and returns to the correct park position. The blades will not move since the linkage has been disconnected.

Step 3

Position the wiper blades in the correct park position. They should rest horizontal and parallel to the windshield. Push the wiper linkage back onto the motor and replace the nut. Tightly secure it with the socket wrench.

Turn the wipers on to test them. They should sweep the windshield as normal, then return to the park position at the bottom of the windshield. Replace the plastic wiper cover by pressing it into position until the clips snap back in.

References

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Socket wrench

Writer Bio

Ryan Bauer is a freelance writer located in Ozark, Missouri. He has written numerous articles and books, including "How to Improve Your Credit Score 100 Points in 100 Days." Bauer is an experienced automotive mechanic and computer technician.