How to Replace Windshield Wipers on a Saturn Ion
by Jody L. Campbell
The Saturn Ion was introduced in 2003, and production stopped on the vehicle in 2007. A close relative of the Chevy Cobalt, the Ion used two different-sized windshield wipers. The driver's side requires a 22-inch blade, and the passenger side uses a 19-inch blade. Attached by a small J-hook at the end of the wiper arm, the Ion features a quick connect wiper blade. Most replacement blades are direct-fit without having to add hardware (provided in most replacement blade packaging) to install them.
Step 1
Pivot the wiper arm in the upright position so it is standing away from the windshield.
Step 2
Fold a towel and place it across the bottom of the windshield in case of accidental deployment of the wiper arm tension spring once the blade has been removed.
Step 3
Swing the wiper blade counterclockwise until it's horizontal to the vertical arm.
Step 4
Depress the plastic locking tab in towards the J-hook of the wiper arm. There are some blades that may have small plastic doors on top of the blade. For these, you need to lift the doors upward to reveal the J-hook.
Step 5
Pull down on the wiper blade, while holding the release clip inward, until it's about 1/4 inch away from the J-hook.
Step 6
Pivot the wiper blade so it's almost parallel to the wiper arm again then pull down to remove it from the wiper blade.
Step 7
Install the correct-sized blade onto the wiper arm. Pivot the blade at the opening near the hardware clip then re-pivot it so the hardware clip can slide into the J-hook.
Step 8
Pull upwards on the wiper blade until you hear a small audible click. Pull back down on the blade to make sure it's locked into place. If applicable, close the doors on top of the blade.
Step 9
Repeat the procedure for the other side.
References
Tips
- Depending on the replacement blade quality, wiper blades should be inspected every six months and replaced at least once a year to optimize windshield cleaning.
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- 22- and 19-inch replacement blades
Writer Bio
Jody L. Campbell spent over 15 years as both a manager and an under-car specialist in the automotive repair industry. Prior to that, he managed two different restaurants for over 15 years. Campbell began his professional writing career in 2004 with the publication of his first book.
