Uncover the Best Tricks: How to Change Jeep Cherokee Rear Wiper Blade

Maintaining clear visibility while driving is crucial for safety, and your rear wiper blade plays a vital role in ensuring this, especially during inclement weather. If you’re a Jeep Cherokee owner and your rear wiper blade is showing signs of wear, like streaking, skipping, or leaving residue, it’s time for a replacement. This guide will walk you through the process of changing your Jeep Cherokee rear wiper blade, making it a simple DIY task.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before beginning the process, ensure you have the following:

• New Rear Wiper Blade: Choose a blade compatible with your Jeep Cherokee model year. You can find the correct size and type at your local auto parts store or online.
• Protective Gloves: These are optional but recommended to protect your hands from dirt and grime.

Locating the Rear Wiper Arm

The first step is to identify the rear wiper arm. It’s located on the rear window of your Jeep Cherokee. It will be a metal arm with a wiper blade attached to it.

Disengaging the Wiper Arm

To remove the old wiper blade, you need to disengage the wiper arm. This is usually done by pressing a button or lever on the wiper arm.

• Locate the Release Button: On most Jeep Cherokee models, the release button is situated at the base of the wiper arm.
• Press and Hold: Press the release button down while simultaneously lifting the wiper arm away from the window. This will disengage the wiper arm and allow you to remove the old blade.

Removing the Old Wiper Blade

Once the wiper arm is disengaged, you can remove the old blade:

• Locate the Wiper Blade Clip: The old blade is attached to the wiper arm using a clip. This clip may be located on the side or bottom of the wiper arm.
• Release the Clip: Carefully pull the clip away from the wiper arm, freeing the old blade.

Installing the New Wiper Blade

Now that the old blade is removed, you can install the new one:

• Align the New Blade: Position the new wiper blade on the wiper arm, ensuring the hook or clip on the blade aligns with the corresponding slot on the arm.
• Secure the Blade: Push the new blade into place until it clicks or snaps securely. Make sure the blade is firmly attached to the arm.

Reattaching the Wiper Arm

With the new blade installed, you can now reattach the wiper arm to the window:

• Align the Arm: Carefully lower the wiper arm back onto the window, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
• Engage the Arm: Release the release button, allowing the arm to engage with the window.

Testing the New Wiper Blade

Once the wiper arm is reattached, test the new blade to ensure it’s working properly:

• Turn on the Rear Wiper: Activate the rear wiper and observe its operation.
• Check for Streaking: Ensure the new blade wipes the rear window clean without streaking or leaving residue.

Cleaning Tips

After changing your rear wiper blade, it’s a good idea to clean the rear window and wiper arm. This will help ensure optimal performance and prevent future streaking.

• Use a Window Cleaner: Spray the rear window with a window cleaning solution and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth.
• Clean the Wiper Arm: Wipe the wiper arm with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

When to Replace Your Rear Wiper Blade

Knowing when to replace your rear wiper blade is essential for maintaining clear rear visibility. Here are some signs that your blade needs replacing:

• Streaking: If your wiper blade leaves streaks on the rear window, it’s a sign that the rubber is worn out.
• Skipping: If the wiper blade skips or doesn’t make full contact with the window, it’s also a sign of wear.
• Leaving Residue: If the blade leaves a residue on the window, it’s time for a replacement.
• Cracked Rubber: Cracked or damaged rubber will not wipe the window effectively.

Final Thoughts: Ensuring Optimal Rear Visibility

Replacing your Jeep Cherokee rear wiper blade is a simple and straightforward task that can significantly improve your rear visibility, especially during inclement weather. By following these steps and replacing your blade when needed, you can ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How often should I replace my rear wiper blade?

It’s generally recommended to replace your rear wiper blade every six to twelve months, depending on your driving conditions and the frequency of use.

2. What type of rear wiper blade should I use for my Jeep Cherokee?

The type of rear wiper blade you need will depend on your Jeep Cherokee‘s model year. Check your owner’s manual or consult with a local auto parts store for the correct size and type.

3. Can I use a front wiper blade for my rear window?

While some wiper blades may appear similar, front and rear wiper blades are designed differently. Using a front blade on the rear window can result in poor performance and damage to the blade.

4. How do I know if my rear wiper blade is properly installed?

A properly installed rear wiper blade will be securely attached to the wiper arm and will wipe the window clean without streaking or leaving residue.

5. What should I do if my rear wiper blade is not working properly?

If your rear wiper blade is not working properly, first ensure it’s properly installed. If the issue persists, inspect the blade for wear and tear. If the blade is damaged, replace it with a new one. If the blade is in good condition, check the wiper motor and other components for potential malfunctions.