🔧 Model S - Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

This repair replaces the windshield wiper blades on your Model S so the windshield clears properly without streaking, skipping, or chattering. Tesla uses a wiper service position so the arms can be safely lifted away from the glass.

Assumption: “wsw” means windshield wipers.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 10-20 minutes

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Do not let a bare metal wiper arm snap back onto the windshield. It can crack the glass.
• ⚠️ Use the touchscreen wiper service mode before lifting the arms.
• ⚠️ Turn off the wipers before starting. Never work on the blades while they can move automatically.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Safety glasses
• Microfiber towel
• Small flat plastic trim tool

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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 your Model S on level ground.
• Put the vehicle in Park.
• Make sure the windshield is clean so dirt does not scratch the glass.
• Open the touchscreen menu: Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode.
• A trim tool is a small plastic pry tool used to release clips without scratching parts.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Turn On Wiper Service Mode

• Use the center touchscreen and go to Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode.
• The wiper arms will move to a service position on the windshield.
• Wait until the wipers stop moving completely before touching them.

Step 2: Protect the Windshield

• Use a microfiber towel and place it on the windshield under the wiper arm area.
• This protects the glass if the arm slips from your hand.
• Hold the arm the whole time.

Step 3: Lift the Driver Wiper Arm

• Use your hand to gently lift the driver-side wiper arm away from the windshield.
• Do not pull it higher than it naturally wants to go.
• Keep one hand on the metal arm while working.

Step 4: Remove the Driver Wiper Blade

• Use your fingers to press the release tab on the wiper blade adapter.
• If the tab is tight, use a small flat plastic trim tool gently to help press the release tab.
• Slide the wiper blade downward and away from the hooked end of the wiper arm.
• Remove the blade from the arm.
• No torque spec applies because this blade clips on and does not use bolts.

Step 5: Install the New Driver Wiper Blade

• Use your hands to line up the new 26" driver wiper blade with the wiper arm hook.
• Slide the blade into the hook until it clicks into place.
• Gently pull on the blade by hand to confirm it is locked.
• A click means it is seated.

Step 6: Lower the Driver Wiper Arm

• Use your hand to slowly lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.
• Do not drop it.
• Make sure the rubber blade sits flat against the glass.

Step 7: Replace the Passenger Wiper Blade

• Use the same process on the passenger-side wiper arm.
• Lift the arm by hand while keeping control of it.
• Use your fingers or a small flat plastic trim tool to press the release tab.
• Slide off the old blade.
• Install the new 20" passenger wiper blade until it clicks.
• Gently pull on the blade by hand to confirm it is locked.
• Slowly lower the arm back onto the windshield.

Step 8: Turn Off Wiper Service Mode

• Use the center touchscreen and return to Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode.
• Turn Wiper Service Mode off.
• The wipers will return to their normal parked position.

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✅ After Repair

• Spray windshield washer fluid and run the wipers at low speed.
• Check that both blades wipe smoothly with no streaking, skipping, or noise.
• If a blade chatters, wipe the rubber edge with a damp microfiber towel.
• Confirm the blades are fully clipped in before driving.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$160 parts + labor

DIY Cost: $25-$60 parts only

You Save: $55-$100 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 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.