The windshield wiper blade elements should be checked periodically for cracks and deterioration, as road film can build up on the wiper blades and affect their efficiency, necessitating regular washing with a mild detergent solution. The action of the wiping mechanism can loosen the wiper arm retaining nuts, so these should be checked and tightened concurrently with the wiper blades. To remove the wiper blade assembly, lift it away from the windshield, press the release lever, and slide the blade assembly out of the hook at the end of the wiper arm, carefully resting the wiper arm on the windshield. The rubber wiper element is secured to the blade assembly at one end of the blade element channel; compress the locking feature on the element to clear the tangs on the blade assembly channel claw, then slide the element out of the frame. Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring that the rubber element and blade assembly are securely attached.