The windshield wiper and blade assembly should be inspected periodically for damage, loose components, and cracked or worn blade elements. Road film can build up on the wiper blades and affect their efficiency, so they should be washed regularly with a mild detergent solution. The action of the wiping mechanism can loosen bolts, nuts, and fasteners, which should be checked and tightened as necessary while inspecting the wiper blades. If the wiper blade elements are cracked, worn, warped, or no longer clean adequately, they should be replaced with new ones. To replace the wiper blade assembly, lift the arm assembly away from the glass for clearance, press on the release lever, and slide the wiper blade assembly out of the hook in the end of the arm. Use needle-nose pliers to compress the blade element, slide it out of the frame, and discard it, then slide the new element in and lock the blade assembly fingers into the notches of the wiper element. Installation is the reverse of removal.