How to Replace Front Windshield Wiper Blades on a 2018 Toyota 4Runner
Step-by-step DIY instructions, blade sizes (26"/20"), required tools, safety tips, and post-install checks
How to Replace Front Windshield Wiper Blades on a 2018 Toyota 4Runner
Step-by-step DIY instructions, blade sizes (26"/20"), required tools, safety tips, and post-install checks
đź”§ 4Runner - Front Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
You’ll remove the old rubber wiper blade assemblies from the front wiper arms and snap on new ones. Fresh blades restore clear visibility and prevent streaking, skipping, and windshield scratching.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- 🛑 Keep a firm grip on the wiper arm—if it snaps back, it can crack the windshield.
- 🛑 Don’t run the wipers on dry glass after removal.
- 🛑 If you lift the arm off the glass, place a towel under it for protection.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
- Small flat trim tool
- Clean shop towel
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Front wiper blades - Driver: 26", Passenger: 20" - Qty: 2
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park your 4Runner on level ground and turn the ignition OFF.
- Make sure the wipers are in their “parked” position at the bottom of the windshield.
- Lay a clean shop towel on the windshield under the wiper area. Helps prevent accidental chips.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Lift the driver-side wiper arm
- Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield until it stays up on its own.
- Keep one hand holding the arm so it can’t spring back.
Step 2: Unclip the old wiper blade from the J-hook
- At the center of the blade, find the connector where the blade meets the arm.
- Press the small release tab on the connector. If it’s stiff, use the small flat trim tool to gently press the tab. (A trim tool is a small plastic/flat prying tool used to press clips without damage.)
- While holding the tab, slide the blade downward (toward the base of the arm) to unhook it from the J-shaped end.
- Remove the blade and set it aside.
Step 3: Install the new driver-side blade
- Align the new blade connector with the J-hook on the arm.
- Slide it upward into place until you hear/feel a solid “click.”
- Gently tug the blade to confirm it’s locked on the hook.
Step 4: Lower the driver-side arm carefully
- Guide the arm back down to the glass slowly—don’t let it drop.
- Remove or reposition the clean shop towel as needed.
Step 5: Repeat for the passenger-side blade
- Repeat Steps 1–4 for the passenger side (20" blade).
- Use the same process: lift arm, press tab, slide blade off, slide new blade on until it clicks.
âś… After Repair
- Turn the ignition ON and run the front washers, then the wipers at low speed.
- Check for streaks, chattering, or missed areas.
- If a blade streaks, wipe the rubber edge with a damp clean shop towel and re-test.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$90 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$60 (parts only)
You Save: $20-$30 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.5 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.
















