Rear window of a hatchback or station wagon Skoda Fabia 2 gets dirty quickly in rainy weather or when driving on dirt roads. If the brush stops cleaning the surface or simply breaks, it must be replaced. Many owners are afraid to touch this unit for fear of damaging the plastic cover or the windshield wiper mechanism, but the removal procedure is quite simple if you have minimal knowledge of the design.
Unlike the front windshield wipers, the rear wiper on this model has a specific mounting system, which often raises questions among beginners. Incorrect actions can lead to stripping of the threads on the axle or deformation of the plastic lever. In this article we will analyze all the nuances of dismantling so that you can safely do the work yourself.
Preparation of tools and workplace
Before you get started, make sure you have the necessary tools. To remove the rear wiper Skoda Fabia 2 You don't need a complex mechanic's kit, but the lack of a suitable item can delay the process indefinitely. You will need a flat blade screwdriver or a special plastic wrench to remove the brushes.
It is also important to provide good lighting. When working in the dark, you risk missing the latches or scratching the paintwork on the trunk lid. Make sure the vehicle is on a level surface and the handbrake is set. If you're working in a garage, turn on the lights, and if you're working outside, choose a spot with maximum visibility.
- ✅ Thin flathead screwdriver or plastic lever
- ✅ Clean rags to protect the plastic
- ✅ New windshield wiper blade (original or equivalent)
Do not try to remove the mechanism by force if it does not give way. Most often, the problem lies in a soured nut or a blocked latch. In such cases it is better to use a penetrating lubricant, e.g. WD-40, and wait a few minutes before trying again.
Access to the wiper drive mechanism
To get to the mounting axis, you need to remove the decorative plastic cover. It closes the drive mechanism and is secured with plastic latches. Use a screwdriver to pry up the cover where it meets the body, starting from the bottom edge. Be careful not to break the fragile caps.
Sometimes the lid fits very tightly due to dirt or time. In this case, you can slightly rock it from side to side while lifting it at the same time. Do not press too hard on the edges as this may crack the plastic. Once the latches are released, the cover will come off freely.
⚠️ Caution: Be extremely careful when removing the plastic cover. If it is stuck, check for hidden screws or screws underneath, which are often installed during pre-sale preparation or in specific configurations.
After removing the cover, you will see a metal shaft that holds the wiper arm. It is at this point that the lever is connected to the drive mechanism. Pay attention to the condition of the nut and any signs of corrosion.
The process of removing the windshield wiper arm
The most important step is removing the lever itself from the axle. On Skoda Fabia 2 the lever is fixed with a nut, which can be closed with a plastic cap. If there is a cap, carefully pry it off and remove it. A nut is hidden under it, usually 10 or 13 mm.
Unscrew the nut with a wrench, but do not throw it away immediately. You may need it to install a new brush if you are only changing the rubber insert. In some cases, the nut will stick to the axle and will have to be lubricated with lubricant. Do not try to rip it off with a jerk, so as not to damage the splines on the axle.
- ✅ Use a spanner or ratchet socket
- ✅ If the nut does not come off, use penetrating fluid.
- ✅ Hold the lever with your hand so that it does not fall into the trunk
After unscrewing the nut, the lever may not come off immediately. It sits on a conical fit and is held in place by friction. To remove, use a special puller or gently rock the lever up and down while pulling it up. Never hit the lever with a hammer, as this may deform the drive shaft and damage the wiper motor.
Removing the brush and replacing it with a new one
Now that the lever has been removed, you can move on to replacing the brush itself. On Skoda Fabia 2 a specific type of fastening is used, which differs from standard “hooks”. The brush is placed on the metal rod of the lever and secured with a special lock.
To remove the old brush, you need to find the lock on its body. This is usually a plastic tab or button. Press it down and slide the brush along the shaft. If the mechanism is jammed, you can slightly rock the brush from side to side without using excessive force.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a new blade, make sure it is compatible with the rear wiper Skoda Fabia 2. The length and type of fastening may vary depending on the year of manufacture of the car and the body type (hatchback or station wagon). An error in selection may result in the new part simply not fitting onto the lever.
Installing a new brush is done in the reverse order. Place it on the rod until the latch clicks. Check the secure fit by pulling the brush by the edge. It should not play or move.
- ✅ Compare the old and new brush before installation
- ✅ Make sure the latch snaps into place
- ✅ Check the angle of contact between the brush and the glass
Lever installation and final assembly
After replacing the brush, you need to return the lever to its place. Clean the axle from any dirt and apply some grease to the conical part. This will make installation easier and prevent further souring. Place the lever on the axle, aligning the splines, and press it firmly until it stops.
Tighten the nut by hand so as not to strip the threads, and then tighten with a wrench. Do not overtighten the nut as this may deform the plastic of the lever or damage the axle. The optimal tightening torque is when the lever is securely seated, but not tightly clamped.
Replace the plastic cover. Insert it into the grooves and press until all the latches click. Make sure the cover sits smoothly and has no gaps. If it does not close all the way, check to see if there is a lever or nut in the way.
- open-end wrench
- Ratchet head
- adjustable wrench
- Flathead screwdriver (by force)
Checking operation and setting the trajectory
After assembly, you need to check the operation of the windshield wiper. Turn on the ignition and activate the rear wiper mode. Watch how the brush moves. It should clean the glass completely without touching the edges of the gasket or the window frame.
If the brush does not reach the edge of the glass or, conversely, hits the body, the lever may be installed incorrectly. In this case, you will have to remove it again and reinstall it in the desired position. On Skoda Fabia 2 Adjustment of the fit angle is often required for ideal operation.
☑️ Check after installation
Also pay attention to the wiper operation in pause mode. It should stop in its original position at the base of the glass, rather than remaining in the middle. If this is not the case, the sensor or return mechanism may have been misconfigured.
⚠️ Attention: If after installation the wiper operates with extraneous noise or vibration, turn it off immediately. This may indicate that the lever is not installed correctly or the drive mechanism is damaged. Continuing to operate in this mode may result in costly repairs.
Adjusting the position of the lever is a delicate process. You need to remove the nut, slightly lift the lever and turn it one slot in the desired direction, then tighten it again. Repeat the procedure until the trajectory is perfect.
What to do if the nut is broken?
If the threads on the axle are damaged, the drive shaft will need to be replaced. This is a complex procedure that requires removing the windshield wiper motor and disassembling the mechanism. In such cases, it is better to contact a service center to avoid further damage to the parts.
Common mistakes and expert advice
Many car owners make the same mistake: they try to remove the brush without removing the lever. On Skoda Fabia 2 This is not possible due to the mounting design. The lever must be completely removed to access the brush lock.
Another mistake is using the wrong brushes. Some owners try to install universal brushes that are not suitable in length or type of fastening. This leads to poor cleaning of the glass and rapid wear of the rubber. Always use original spare parts or high-quality analogues.
- ✅ Do not use brushes with any other type of fastening
- ✅ Do not leave the lever without a brush for a long time
- ✅ Regularly clean the axle from dirt and rust
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. Incorrect installation can lead to mechanism failure, which will require major repairs. However, if you follow the instructions, replacing the rear wiper with Skoda Fabia 2 will take no more than 15 minutes.
Before starting work, place a damp cloth on the glass. This will protect the surface from accidental scratches if the lever or tool slips while removing the nut.
Correct installation of the lever and reliable tightening of the nut are the key to long operation of the rear windshield wiper and absence of vibrations when driving.
Comparison table of brushes for Skoda Fabia 2
For clarity, here is a table of popular models of brushes that are suitable for the rear wiper Skoda Fabia 2. This will help you choose the best option in terms of price and quality.
| Brand | Model | Mounting type | Length (mm) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skoda Original | 1T0 955 551 | Specific (OEM) | 400 | Ideal geometry, durability |
| Boch | 3397004753 | Adapter included | 400 | High quality rubber, quiet operation |
| Trico | 35-400 | Universal | 400 | Affordable price, average quality |
| Denso | DU-040L | Adapter included | 400 | Low temperature resistance |
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to replace a rear wiper?
On average, the process takes 10 to 20 minutes, including removing the cover, unscrewing the nut and installing a new brush. If the nut is stuck, the time may increase.
Is it possible to remove the brush without removing the lever?
No, on Skoda Fabia 2 The fastening design requires complete removal of the lever to access the brush lock. Attempting to remove the brush without removing the lever will result in damage to the mechanism.
Which nut should I use to tighten the lever?
Typically a 10mm or 13mm nut is used. It is recommended to use the original nut or a quality replacement to ensure a secure fit.
What to do if the lever does not come off the axle?
Try treating the joint with penetrating lubricant and gently rocking the lever up and down. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the drive shaft.