🔧 Front Wiper Blade Replacement

Your Explorer uses front wiper blades that slide into a simple hook-style arm. Replacing them is quick, and the main job is releasing the old blade from the arm without scratching the windshield.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the ignition off before starting.
• Keep the wiper arm held securely so it does not snap back onto the glass.
• Do not let the bare metal arm touch the windshield.
• If the wipers are stuck to the glass, lift them gently to avoid bending the arm.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Clean microfiber towel
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Front wiper blades - Driver: 26", Passenger: 20" - Qty: 2

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and turn the ignition off.
• Set the parking brake.
• Lift only one wiper arm at a time.
• Place a towel on the windshield near the arm base for extra protection.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Lift the driver-side wiper arm

• Use your hand to raise the driver-side wiper arm away from the windshield.
• Hold the arm steady the whole time.

Step 2: Remove the old driver-side blade

• Find the small release tab where the blade connects to the arm.
• Press the tab and slide the blade down and out of the hook using your hand.
• If it is tight, wiggle it gently instead of forcing it.

Step 3: Install the new driver-side blade

• Slide the new blade into the hook-style arm until it clicks into place.
• Pull lightly on the blade to make sure it is locked in.

Step 4: Lower the driver-side arm

• Carefully lower the arm back onto the windshield.
• Do not let it snap down.

Step 5: Repeat for the passenger-side blade

• Lift the passenger-side arm.
• Use your hand to press the release tab and remove the old blade.
• Install the new blade and confirm it locks in place.
• Lower the arm gently back onto the glass.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the wipers on with windshield washer fluid and check both blades sweep smoothly.
• Make sure there are no streaks, chatter, or loose movement.
• If one blade skips, confirm it is fully locked into the arm.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $30-$60 (parts only)

You Save: $30-$60 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hours.

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🎯 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.