How to Replace Front Windshield Wiper Blades on a 2017 Subaru Outback
Step-by-step instructions with blade sizes, safety tips, tools, and DIY cost info for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
How to Replace Front Windshield Wiper Blades on a 2017 Subaru Outback
Step-by-step instructions with blade sizes, safety tips, tools, and DIY cost info for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
🔧 Front Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Your front wiper blades are a quick, easy replacement job. Fresh blades restore visibility in rain and snow, and they prevent streaking, chatter, and skipped spots on the windshield.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the ignition off before starting.
- Lift one wiper arm at a time so it does not snap back against the glass.
- Place a towel on the windshield while the blade is off to protect the glass.
- If the wiper arm is lifted, hold it firmly. It can spring back quickly.
- No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- None
- Microfiber towel
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Front wiper blades - Driver: 26", Passenger: 17" - Qty: 2
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and turn the ignition off.
- Set the parking brake.
- Keep the windshield clean before installing the new blades.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Lift the driver wiper arm
- Gently lift the driver-side wiper arm away from the windshield.
- Place a microfiber towel on the glass under the arm for protection.
- Hold the arm firmly.
Step 2: Remove the old driver blade
- Press the release tab on the blade connector.
- Slide the old blade downward and off the hook-style wiper arm.
- If it feels stuck, wiggle it gently while keeping the arm steady.
Step 3: Install the new driver blade
- Align the new 26" blade with the wiper arm hook.
- Slide it into place until you hear or feel it click.
- Pull lightly on the blade to confirm it is locked in.
Step 4: Replace the passenger blade
- Repeat the same process on the passenger side using the 17" blade.
- Make sure the blade is fully seated before lowering the arm.
- Do one side at a time.
Step 5: Lower both arms carefully
- Slowly lower each wiper arm back onto the windshield.
- Do not let it drop onto the glass.
Step 6: Test the wipers
- Turn the ignition on and run the wipers with washer fluid.
- Check for smooth movement, proper contact, and no streaking.
- If a blade chatters, remove it and make sure it is seated correctly.
✅ After Repair
- Test the wipers at low and high speed.
- Check washer spray pattern and blade contact across the full windshield.
- Confirm both blades park in the correct resting position.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $70-$140 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $25-$50 (parts only)
You Save: $45-$90 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.
















