The windshield wiper blades on the Chevrolet HHR should be inspected for tears and dry rot every six months and replaced at least once a year. This will optimize the performance of the blades and ensure they're cleaning the windshields for optimum vision. While aftermarket wiper blades might employ slightly different removal and installation procedures, the small J-hook wiper arm of the HHR offers a quick-disconnect and quick-connect feature.
Lift one wiper arm away from the HHR windshield and place a folded towel onto the windshield beneath the wiper in case of accidental deployment of the arm. The wiper arms are spring-loaded and once the blade is removed, the metal J-hook can easily crack the windshield by snapping back.
Lift the center clip upward with your finger on one hand while supporting the wiper arm with your other hand.
Pull the wiper away from the J-hook of the arm to disengage it from the hook.
Read the instructions on the replacement wiper blade for proper re-installation. If the blade is from Chevrolet, simply reverse the procedure to reinstall. Many popular wiper blades come equipped with a small plastic locking clip that sets inside the J-hook. Simply lifting up the blade until it makes an audible click into position is all that's required.
Remove the towel and set the wiper arm back into position against the windshield.
Repeat the procedure for the other wiper blade.
Disengage the protective cap from the rear wiper blade/wiper arm assembly before lifting the arm.
Lift the wiper arm until the spring clip positions the arm in a standing position.
Rotate the blade a half-turn to align the blade connector with the retaining hook and then pull the wiper down to remove it from the arm.
Install the new 10-inch wiper arm and reverse the procedure to reinstall.
Place the wiper arm back in position against the rear windshield and replace the protective cap.
