How to Change Windshield Wipers on a 2012 Toyota Prius C

Maintaining your vehicle’s windshield wipers is essential for clear visibility, especially during harsh weather conditions like rain or snow. In this article, we’ll show you how to change the windshield wipers on a 2012 Toyota Prius and provide some pro tips to extend the life of your wipers. We’ll also share how to prepare your windows for optimal performance. Whether you’re a DIY car enthusiast or just looking to save some money by doing it yourself, these simple steps can ensure safer driving in all weather conditions.

Watch the full video HERE.

Windshield wipers take a lot of abuse from the elements, especially in areas with heavy rain, snow, or even intense sun exposure. Over time, wiper blades can deteriorate, leaving streaks and making it difficult to see clearly while driving. Changing them regularly and taking a few extra precautions can ensure your wipers perform well for a longer time, keeping you safe on the road.

Before we get into the steps of changing the wipers, there’s a valuable tip that can significantly extend the life of your windshield wipers: using a clay bar to clean your windows. Many people replace their wipers, only to find that they wear out quickly. One reason for this is the build-up of grime and contaminants on the windshield that can cause unnecessary wear on the blades.

A clay bar is commonly used to remove impurities from a car’s paint, but it works wonders on glass as well. By removing debris and pollutants, you’ll have a smoother surface that is easier for the wipers to clean. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clay Bar Application: Apply the clay bar to the windows to remove grime, dust, and any small particles that can scratch the glass. Continuously mold the clay into a new shape as it picks up dirt to avoid scratching the surface.
2. Smooth Surface: After using the clay, your windshield will be much smoother, allowing your wipers to glide across without resistance, reducing wear and tear.

Now that your windows are prepared, it’s time to replace your wipers. Follow these simple steps:

• Purchase a compatible wiper kit that includes both the front and rear wipers for your 2012 Toyota Prius. You can often find great deals online, and I’ll leave a link to the kit I used.

• Passenger Side:
  1. Lift the wiper arm and locate the small cover at the connection point.
  2. Gently pull the cover off and slide the wiper blade down to remove it from the arm.
  3. A pro tip: Place a piece of cardboard or a soft object (like a bag) between the windshield and the wiper arm to avoid cracking the windshield if it snaps back unexpectedly.
  4. With the cover removed and the arm in an upright position, slide the old wiper blade down and off.

• Driver Side:
  1. Repeat the same steps as the passenger side. Lift the arm, remove the cover, and carefully slide the old wiper blade off.

• Take your new wiper blade and slide the hook into place where the old blade was removed.
• Ensure that the blade locks in securely with a click.
• Once locked in, flip the cover down over the arm.

Remember not to remove any protective covers from the new wipers until you’re finished installing both sides.

• The process is very similar to the front wipers. Lift the rear wiper arm and follow the same steps to remove and replace the wiper blade.

After installing the new wipers, there’s one more step to ensure the best performance: treating your windshield with a glass sealant like Rain-X. This helps water bead off the windshield, making it easier for the wipers to clear the view. For optimal results:

• Windshield Treatment: Apply Rain-X or a similar product to both the front and rear windshields. This will allow the rainwater to bead and roll off more easily, reducing the need to use your wipers constantly.
• Side Windows: For side windows, use a spray-on treatment for added visibility.

If you live in a colder climate, like Texas in the winter, be mindful of your windshield washer fluid. Many vehicles come with washer fluid rated for warmer temperatures, but if temperatures drop below freezing, it can cause your washer fluid reservoir to freeze and crack.

Here’s how to prevent that:

• Check Your Washer Fluid: Look at your current fluid and see if it’s rated for freezing temperatures. If not, you can add a specialized washer fluid like Rain-X All Season with a deicer.
• Rubbing Alcohol Hack: If your washer fluid tank is full, adding a small amount of rubbing alcohol can help prevent the fluid from freezing until you’re able to switch to a cold-weather formula.

After claying the windshield and applying Rain-X, the water beaded off the glass effortlessly. As I was driving in heavy rain, I barely needed to use the wipers, and the visibility was significantly improved. These simple steps can make a huge difference in how your wipers perform and how clear your view remains during storms.

Changing the windshield wipers on a 2012 Toyota Prius is a straightforward process, but with a few extra tips like using a clay bar to clean your windows and applying Rain-X, you can extend the life of your wipers and improve their performance. Don’t forget to prepare for colder climates by using the right washer fluid or adding rubbing alcohol to prevent freezing.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any weather conditions and keep your windshield clear and clean. Stay safe, and happy driving!