Summarize on a 2020 Tesla S
Step-by-step instructions with service mode tips, tools, parts, and safety precautions for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
Summarize on a 2020 Tesla S
Step-by-step instructions with service mode tips, tools, parts, and safety precautions for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
🔧 Windshield Wiper Blades - Replacement
Your Model S uses a conventional front wiper set, so this is a quick swap. You’ll remove the old blades from the arms, install the new ones, and confirm the blades sit flat on the glass.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Keep your hands clear of the wiper arms. They are spring-loaded and can snap against the glass.
- Do not let a bare wiper arm fall onto the windshield.
- Turn the wipers off before starting.
- If your car has a service/wiper mode in the screen, use it to park the wipers first.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Microfiber towel
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Front wiper blades - Driver: 26", Passenger: 21" - Qty: 2
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and switch the car to Park.
- Turn the wipers off.
- If the wiper arms are resting low against the cowl, put the wipers into service position from the touchscreen first. Service position lifts the arms away from the glass for easier access.
- Lay a microfiber towel on the windshield under each arm to protect the glass.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Park the wipers in service position
- Use the touchscreen to move the wipers into service position if needed. On-screen path may vary, but look for Controls > Service > Wiper Service Mode.
- If the wipers are already lifted and easy to access, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Lift the wiper arm
- Lift one wiper arm away from the windshield until it stays up on its own.
- Place a microfiber towel under the arm so it cannot strike the glass.
Step 3: Remove the old blade
- Use your fingers to press the release tab on the wiper blade connector.
- Slide the blade down and off the hook-style arm or connector, depending on the blade design.
- Do one blade at a time.
Step 4: Install the new blade
- Align the new blade with the arm connector.
- Slide it into place until it clicks or locks securely.
- Gently tug on the blade to make sure it is fully seated.
Step 5: Repeat on the other side
- Replace the other blade the same way.
- Make sure the driver and passenger lengths are correct before installation.
Step 6: Lower the arms and test
- Carefully lower both arms back onto the windshield.
- Remove the towels.
- Run the washer and wipers briefly to confirm smooth operation and proper contact with the glass.
✅ After Repair
- Check for streaking, skipping, or noise.
- Make sure both blades park in the correct position.
- If a blade chatters, recheck that it is fully locked in place.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $90-$180 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $35-$80 (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 0.2-0.5 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.
🔧 Windshield Wiper Blades - Summary
Put the wipers in service position if needed, lift each arm with a towel under it, release the old blade, and slide the new blade into place until it clicks. Then lower the arms gently and test the wipers for smooth operation.
🔩 Required Parts
- Front wiper blades - Driver: 26", Passenger: 21" - Qty: 2
✅ After Repair
- Check for streaks, skipping, or noise.
- Confirm both blades park correctly.
















