Nissan Leaf 2018-2025 (ZE1) Owner's Manual : Windshield wiper blades

Cleaning

If your windshield fails to clear properly after utilizing the washer system, or if you notice the wiper blades "chattering" and skipping across the glass during operation, this is often a sign that road film, wax, or other environmental contaminants have accumulated on the rubber blades or the windshield surface itself.

To restore performance, thoroughly clean the exterior of the windshield using a professional-grade washer solution or a mild automotive detergent. You can verify that the glass is sufficiently clean when water no longer beads up on the surface, but instead sheets away evenly during a clear-water rinse.

Next, clean each wiper blade individually by wiping the rubber edge with a soft, lint-free cloth soaked in your cleaning solution. Once wiped, rinse the blade carefully with clear water. If you continue to experience streaking or impaired visibility after performing this thorough cleaning, the rubber on your Nissan Leaf wiper blades may have hardened or degraded, and the blades should be replaced.

CAUTION

Worn or damaged windshield wiper blades can scratch the glass surface, cause permanent damage to the windshield, and significantly impair driver vision in inclement weather.

Replacing

Replace your wiper blades immediately if you notice signs of wear, such as streaking, tearing, or uneven contact.

Pulling up the wiper arm

For safe replacement, the wiper arm must be moved into an extended, upright position. This can be achieved manually or by utilizing the convenient wiper rise-up function found on many Nissan Leaf models.

Diagram illustrating how to manually raise the Nissan Leaf windshield wiper arms

Wiper rise-up function (if so equipped)

To engage the rise-up function, push the wiper lever (1) up and hold it for more than 2 seconds within 60 seconds after the power switch has been turned off. The wipers will cycle to a mid-point position on the windshield, allowing the wiper arms to be lifted easily away from the glass.

To return the wipers to their operating position, manually lower the arms onto the windshield and then push the lever (1) up once after the power switch has been turned back on.

CAUTION

Never operate the windshield wipers while the arms are in the raised position, as the wiper assembly or the hood of your Nissan Leaf may sustain significant damage.

Detailed view of the release tab mechanism on the Nissan Leaf wiper blade assembly

Replacing

1. Depress the release tab (A) and slide the wiper blade downward along the wiper arm (B) while continuing to hold the tab to fully detach the blade.

2. Align the new wiper blade with the arm and insert it until you hear a distinct "click," confirming it is locked in place.

3. Rotate the blade assembly slightly to ensure the dimple is properly seated within the designated groove.

CAUTION

  • Always return the wiper arms to their original, parked position flush against the glass immediately after replacement; failure to do so may result in the arms striking the hood when it is opened.
  • Ensure the wiper blades have full contact with the windshield. If the arms are left elevated, they may be damaged by wind pressure while driving.

Close-up of the washer fluid nozzle and the tool used for clearing obstructions

Take care not to obstruct the washer nozzle (C), as debris here will lead to uneven fluid spray and poor cleaning results. If the nozzle becomes clogged, use a thin needle or a small pin (D) to gently dislodge the blockage, being extremely careful not to damage the nozzle orifice itself.

Rear window wiper blade

For your safety and to ensure optimal performance, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN certified LEAF dealer if you suspect the rear wiper requires inspection or replacement.

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