Swapping out your wiper blades is one of the easiest maintenance jobs you can perform on your Ford Fusion. Nearly every driver can DIY this task in five minutes or less. Of course, you’ll need to start with a new set of 2021 Ford Fusion wiper blades. Most car care pros suggest unpacking your new blades and setting them aside before you start. It’s also helpful to raise your wiper arms so they stand up by themselves. Once you’re ready, you can follow some simple steps for wiper blade replacement:
- Turn the old wiper blade until it’s perpendicular to the wiper arm.
- Press the release tab and start pulling the blade out of the arm slot.
- Rotate the blade again until it’s parallel to the arm.
- Guide the old blade off the wiper arm hook.
- Slide the replacement blade onto the hook.
- Maneuver the new blade into the arm slot until you hear a “click.”
After changing your blades, start your vehicle and test your wipers with a little bit of washer fluid on the windshield. If they work according to specs, you’re done.
Symptoms of Failing Wiper Blades
Worn-out wiper blades are easy to spot. The rubber edge that’s pressed against the glass wears out from repeated use, especially if you live in areas with lots of rain or snow. Running your wipers on a dry windshield can also cause them to wear out faster. Some common symptoms will tell you that your Ford Fusion wiper blades need to be changed:
- Worn, cracked, torn or stiff rubber edges
- Exposed corroded or rusted metal
- Chattering or squeaking on the windshield
- Dirt, ice, snow or streaks left on the glass
Changing your wiper blades regularly is just one part of the equation. You also need to buy good-quality blades to ensure that you get the best performance for your money. Fortunately, you’ve got many options from which to choose. Several brands offer a large selection of blade styles to meet your needs. Popular manufacturers include Bosch, RainX and Duralast.
Most wiper blades last between six and 12 months. Constructed of a rubber squeegee attached to a metal frame with pivot points, conventional blades can deliver dependable performance. While they’re the lowest-priced option you’ll find, they may not last as long in extreme rain or snowy weather.
Conventional blades aren’t your only choice. Beam blades contain a solid piece of rubber curved to maximize contact with your windshield’s surface. They’re pricier yet provide solid performance in extreme weather and last up to twice as long as conventional blades. Hybrids use a curved aerodynamic rubber shell combined with a metal frame, so you get excellent cleaning power at a lower price than beam blades.
Where To Find Replacement Blades
Shopping for 2012 Ford Fusion wiper blades is just as easy as swapping them out. Choose a dependable aftermarket auto parts retailer to get the best value, selection and service. Many retailers offer local in-store pickup along with shipping services to your home.
