Replacing Wiper Blades on a 2012 Ford Escape

Introduction

Maintaining optimal visibility while driving is crucial for safety. Worn or damaged wiper blades can compromise your vision, especially during inclement weather. Replacing wiper blades is a relatively straightforward task that can be performed in a matter of minutes. This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the correct wiper blade size for your 2012 Ford Escape and provides step-by-step instructions for their installation.

Determining the Correct Wiper Blade Size

The 2012 Ford Escape uses two different wiper blade sizes:

Driver Side: 26 inches

Passenger Side: 22 inches

It is important to note that using the incorrect wiper blade size can lead to poor performance, decreased visibility, and potential damage to the wiper assembly.

How to Replace Wiper Blades on a 2012 Ford Escape

Materials:

New wiper blades (26 inches for driver side, 22 inches for passenger side)

Clean cloth

Instructions:

1. Raise the Wiper Arms

Turn off the vehicle and put it in park.

Pull the wiper lever towards you to activate the wipers.

Once the wipers have made a full sweep, turn off the ignition and remove the key.

Gently lift the wiper arms away from the windshield. Do not force them, as they may be frozen or stuck.

2. Release the Old Wiper Blades

Locate the release tab at the base of the wiper blade.

Press the release tab and slide the wiper blade straight up and off the wiper arm.

3. Install the New Wiper Blades

Take the new wiper blade and align it with the wiper arm.

Slide the new wiper blade down onto the wiper arm until it clicks into place.

Make sure the new wiper blade is secure.

4. Lower the Wiper Arms

Carefully lower the wiper arms back onto the windshield.

Once the wiper arms are in place, turn on the ignition and activate the wipers to test their operation.

Tips:

It is recommended to replace wiper blades every 6-12 months, or sooner if they show signs of wear or damage.

Choose high-quality wiper blades that are designed for your specific vehicle and climate.

Clean your windshield regularly to remove dirt and debris that can reduce wiper blade effectiveness.

If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, consider using heavy-duty wiper blades or winter wiper blades.

Conclusion

Replacing wiper blades on a 2012 Ford Escape is a simple and essential maintenance task that can improve your visibility and safety while driving. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the appropriate wiper blade size and that they are installed correctly.