Maintaining your vehicle’s windshield wipers is crucial for ensuring clear visibility during adverse weather conditions. On Jeep vehicles, replacing or servicing wiper arms may become necessary over time. Removing the windshield wiper arm on a 2020 Jeep requires a few simple steps that can be easily accomplished by DIY enthusiasts or automotive professionals. By following this comprehensive guide, you can effectively remove the wiper arm, allowing you to perform necessary repairs or replacements with precision.
To initiate the wiper arm removal process, it is essential to gather the necessary tools. Typically, you will need a 13mm socket wrench or a combination wrench. Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged for safety. Locate the wiper arm you intend to remove and lift it away from the windshield. This action will reveal a plastic cap covering the wiper arm’s base. Carefully remove the cap to expose the 13mm nut securing the wiper arm.
Using the appropriate socket wrench or combination wrench, gently loosen the 13mm nut. Avoid applying excessive force to prevent damaging the nut or the wiper arm. Once the nut is loose, manually remove it and carefully lift the wiper arm straight up and off the wiper transmission shaft. It’s important to handle the wiper arm with care to prevent any bending or damage. By following these steps, you can effortlessly remove the windshield wiper arm on your 2020 Jeep, enabling you to perform maintenance or replacements as needed.
Locating the Wiper Arm Nut
Before you can remove the wiper arm, you must locate its corresponding wiper arm nut. Here’s a detailed guide to assist you:
1. Identifying the Wiper Arm Nut:
To identify the wiper arm nut, follow these steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Engage the parking brake and shift the vehicle into park mode. |
| 2 | Pop open the hood and locate the base of the windshield wipers. |
| 3 | Inspect the area where the wiper arm meets the pivot point on the windshield. |
| 4 | You will find a nut securing the wiper arm in place. This nut is the wiper arm nut. |
Using a Socket Wrench to Remove the Nut
Once you’ve located the nut that holds the wiper arm in place, you’ll need to use a socket wrench to remove it. Here are the steps:
- Choose the right size socket. The size of the socket you need will vary depending on the make and model of your Jeep. Consult your owner’s manual or a Jeep repair manual to find the correct size.
- Attach the socket to the wrench. Make sure the socket is securely attached to the wrench before proceeding.
- Position the wrench on the nut. Carefully position the wrench on the nut, making sure that it is fully engaged.
- Apply downward pressure. While holding the wrench steady, apply downward pressure to loosen the nut. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the nut is completely removed.
Tips for Removing the Nut
- If the nut is rusted or seized, you may need to use penetrating oil to loosen it.
- Be careful not to drop the nut into the engine compartment. It can be difficult to retrieve if it falls.
- If you’re having trouble loosening the nut, you can try using a breaker bar for extra leverage.
Gently Pulling the Wiper Arm Off the Spindle
To gently pull the wiper arm off the spindle, follow these steps:
- Locate the small plastic cap at the base of the wiper arm. Gently pry off the cap using a flat-head screwdriver or a trim removal tool.
- Once the cap is removed, you will see a nut securing the wiper arm to the spindle. Using an appropriate socket wrench or a box wrench, carefully loosen the nut, but do not remove it completely.
- While holding the wiper arm steady, gently pull it straight up and off the spindle. Do not apply excessive force, as you may damage the spindle or the wiper arm itself.
NOTE If the wiper arm is stuck on the spindle, you can try using a penetrating lubricant, such as WD-40, to help loosen it. Apply the lubricant to the base of the wiper arm and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to pull it off. - Once the wiper arm is removed, you can proceed with the desired maintenance or repair task.
Locating the Wiper Arm Retainer
The Wiper Arm Retainer is usually found at the base of the Wiper Arm, where it connects to the Windshield. It may be a small plastic or metal clip or a lever that needs to be released. In some Jeep models, the retainer may be hidden under a plastic cover, which you’ll need to remove first.
Unfastening the Wiper Arm Retainer
Once you’ve located the Wiper Arm Retainer, carefully unfasten it. If it’s a plastic clip, you can usually pry it open with a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernails. If it’s a lever, simply flip or push it to release the Wiper Arm.
Removing the Wiper Arm
With the Wiper Arm Retainer unfastened, you can now remove the Wiper Arm from the Windshield. Gently pull the arm straight up and away from the glass. It may require a bit of force, but be careful not to damage the Windshield or the Wiper Arm itself.
Replacing the Wiper Blade (Optional)
If you’re also replacing the Wiper Blade, now is the time to do it. Grab the old blade and pull it straight towards you to detach it from the Wiper Arm. Take the new blade and slide it onto the arm until it clicks into place. Make sure the blade is facing the correct direction before tightening it.
Preparations
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools: a small flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool, a 10mm socket wrench or spanner, and a clean cloth.
Removing the Wiper Blades
Locate the small plastic cap at the base of the wiper arm where it connects to the wiper blade. Use the screwdriver or trim removal tool to gently pry the cap off. Lift the wiper blade straight up and off the arm.
Removing the Wiper Arm
Locate the 10mm nut that secures the wiper arm to the transmission linkage. Use the socket wrench or spanner to loosen the nut, but do not remove it completely. Gently lift the wiper arm straight up and off the linkage.
Cleaning the Wiper Transmission Linkage
Use the clean cloth to wipe down the wiper transmission linkage. Remove any dirt, debris, or old grease that may have accumulated. This will ensure smooth operation of the new wiper arms.
Reinstalling the Wiper Arm
To reinstall the wiper arm, follow these detailed steps:
- Position the wiper arm over the transmission linkage, aligning the splines.
- Carefully lower the wiper arm onto the linkage, ensuring that it is fully seated.
- Tighten the 10mm nut that secures the wiper arm. Do not overtighten.
- Replace the plastic cap at the base of the wiper arm.
- Repeat the process for the remaining wiper arm.
Additional Notes:
- It is recommended to replace both wiper arms at the same time to ensure optimal performance.
- If the wiper arms are stubborn to remove, gently tap them with a rubber mallet or use a penetrating lubricant.
- If you encounter any difficulties during the process, do not hesitate to consult a qualified mechanic or refer to the vehicle’s service manual.
Wiper Arm Nut Torque Specifications:
Vehicle Torque (Nm) Jeep Grand Cherokee (2020) 18-24 Jeep Wrangler (2020) 18-24 Jeep Gladiator (2020) 18-24 Tightening the Wiper Arm Nut
The final step in the wiper arm removal process is tightening the wiper arm nut. This step is crucial to ensure that the wiper arm is securely attached to the wiper transmission shaft and will not come loose during operation.
To tighten the wiper arm nut, you will need the following tools:
- Ratchet or wrench
- Socket that fits the wiper arm nut
Follow these steps to tighten the wiper arm nut:
- Place the socket over the wiper arm nut.
- Attach the ratchet or wrench to the socket.
- Gently tighten the wiper arm nut until it is snug.
- Do not overtighten the wiper arm nut, as this can damage the nut or the wiper transmission shaft.
- Double-check that the wiper arm is securely attached to the wiper transmission shaft.
- Use a torque wrench to ensure that the wiper arm nut is tightened to the correct specifications. The torque specification for the wiper arm nut is typically between 15 and 25 ft-lbs.
Once the wiper arm nut is tightened, your wiper arm is now securely attached to the wiper transmission shaft. You can now reattach the wiper blade to the wiper arm.
Ensuring Secure Fit
Once the wiper arm is removed, it’s crucial to ensure a secure fit when reattaching it. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
1. Clean the Components:
Clean the wiper arm base and the windshield surface where the arm will mount. Remove any dirt, debris, or rust to create a clean and secure contact area.
2. Align the Arm:
Align the wiper arm with the correct position on the windshield. The arm should sit flush against the glass and align with the curvature.
3. Tighten the Nut:
Tighten the nut that holds the wiper arm in place. Apply moderate force, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage.
4. Check the Fit:
Move the wiper arm back and forth to ensure it moves smoothly and stays in place. If there are any looseness or rattling, repeat steps 2 and 3.
5. Engage the Wiper:
Engage the wiper motor and observe the wiper’s motion. It should wipe the windshield evenly and without any skips or jumps.
6. Tighten the Hood:
If you detached the hood to access the wiper arm, make sure to retighten the hood latch securely to ensure it stays closed.
7. Final Inspection:
Test the wipers again under different conditions, such as rain or snow, to ensure they function properly and provide clear visibility. If any issues arise, repeat the cleaning and alignment steps or consult a qualified mechanic.
Testing the Wiper Operation
Before removing the wiper arm, it’s important to test its operation to ensure it’s the root cause of the issue. Follow these steps to test the wiper function:
- Turn on the vehicle’s ignition.
- Activate the wiper switch to the first position (intermittent wipe).
- If the wipers don’t operate, proceed to the next step.
- Set the wiper switch to the second position (continuous wipe).
- If the wipers still don’t function, there may be an underlying electrical problem.
- If the wipers operate in the second position but not the first, the intermittent wipe module may be faulty.
- Inspect the wiper blades for damage or wear. Worn blades can cause streaking or poor wiping performance.
- If the blades are in good condition, the wiper motor may be malfunctioning and require replacement.
Wiper Operation Possible Cause Wipers don’t operate in any position Electrical problem Wipers operate in continuous wipe but not intermittent wipe Faulty intermittent wipe module Wipers operate weakly or streak Worn wiper blades Wipers operate smoothly but are not clearing the windshield effectively Malfunctioning wiper motor Troubleshooting Common Issues
9. Windshield Wiper Arm Not Moving Freely
Frozen Wiper Blades: During winter, ice can accumulate around the wiper blades and prevent them from moving. To resolve this, park your Jeep in a warm area or use a de-icing spray to melt the ice.
Worn or Bent Wiper Blades: If the wiper blades are worn or bent, they may not fit snugly against the windshield and will not clear effectively. Replace the blades with new ones.
Obstructed Wiper Arms: Debris, such as leaves or small stones, can get stuck in the wiper arms and prevent them from moving. Use a cloth to gently remove any obstructions.
Malfunctioning Wiper Motor: The wiper motor is responsible for powering the wiper arms. If the motor fails, the wipers will not move at all. To test the motor, try turning the wipers on and off with the switch. If the wipers do not respond, the motor may need to be replaced.
Damaged Linkage: The linkage connects the wiper motor to the wiper arms. If the linkage is damaged, the wipers will not move smoothly or may move erratically. Inspect the linkage for any loose or broken parts and replace them as necessary.
Faulty Wiring: If the wiring that connects the wiper motor to the switch or power source is damaged, the wipers may not work. Check the wiring for any breaks or loose connections and repair them as needed.
Safety Precautions
Before beginning any repairs, ensure your Jeep is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged. Gather the necessary tools, including a socket wrench, a ratchet, and a new set of wiper blades if needed.
1. Gather Tools
You will need the following tools for this job:
- Socket wrench
- Ratchet
- New set of wiper blades (if needed)
2. Park Vehicle and Engage Parking Brake
Park your Jeep on a level surface and engage the parking brake to ensure it does not move while you are working.
3. Open Hood
Locate the hood release lever inside the vehicle and pull it to open the hood.
4. Locate Wiper Arms
Identify the two wiper arms that are attached to the windshield. They are located on the driver and passenger sides.
5. Lift Wiper Arm to Vertical Position
Lift the wiper arm up to a vertical position, perpendicular to the windshield.
6. Lift Wiper Blade
Using your hand, lift the wiper blade from the wiper arm.
7. Locate Retaining Clip
On the underside of the wiper arm, you will find a small retaining clip that holds the wiper blade in place.
8. Press Retaining Clip
Press down on the retaining clip and slide the wiper blade off the wiper arm.
9. Remove Wiper Arm Nut
Using your socket wrench and ratchet, remove the nut that secures the wiper arm to the pivot shaft.
10. Pull Wiper Arm Straight Up
Grasp the wiper arm firmly and pull it straight up and off the pivot shaft. Note that the wiper arm may be slightly stuck due to corrosion or mineral deposits. If this is the case, gently twist and pull the wiper arm until it comes free. Be careful not to damage the windshield or the wiper arm itself.
How To Take Windshield Wiper Arm Off On Jeep 2020
To remove the windshield wiper arm on a 2020 Jeep, follow these steps:
- Turn the Jeep’s engine off and engage the parking brake.
- Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
- Locate the plastic cap at the base of the wiper arm.
- Pry off the cap using a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Once the cap is removed, you will see a 13mm nut.
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut.
- Once the nut is loose, you can pull the wiper arm straight up and off of the Jeep.
People Also Ask
How do I replace a windshield wiper blade on a 2020 Jeep?
To replace the windshield wiper blade on a 2020 Jeep, follow these steps:
- Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
- Locate the tab on the wiper blade.
- Press down on the tab and slide the old wiper blade off of the wiper arm.
- Slide the new wiper blade onto the wiper arm.
- Close the tab on the wiper blade to secure it.
- Lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield.
How do I remove the wiper cowl on a 2020 Jeep?
To remove the wiper cowl on a 2020 Jeep, follow these steps:
- Open the hood of the Jeep.
- Locate the wiper cowl at the base of the windshield.
- There are four plastic clips that hold the wiper cowl in place.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to pry up on the clips and release the wiper cowl.
