Can You Buy Just Wiper Blade Refills?

Yes, you can still buy wiper blade refills, but availability is limited and depends on your vehicle and blade design. Many modern wiper blades are sold as complete assemblies, yet several automakers, select aftermarket brands, and online retailers still offer rubber insert refills for compatible frames. Here’s how to know if refills will work for you, where to find them, and what to consider before you buy.

What “refills” are—and why they’re harder to find

Wiper blade refills are the rubber inserts (often with thin metal backing rails) that slide into an existing wiper frame. They reduce waste and cost compared with replacing the entire blade assembly. Over the last decade, many blades have shifted to sealed “beam” designs that don’t accept refills, pushing retailers to stock full assemblies instead. Even so, a meaningful slice of OEM and aftermarket options still support refills.

Where you can buy wiper refills today

The sources below are your best bet for finding refills that fit specific vehicles or generic refill sizes. Availability will vary by region and by the specific blade on your car.

• Dealership parts counters (Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Subaru, Mazda, and some Nissan models commonly stock OEM insert refills)
• Aftermarket brands that still offer refills (e.g., TRICO universal 6 mm/8 mm refills; Dorman “HELP!” universal refills; silicone refills from PIAA and Silblade for their compatible blades)
• Online parts retailers and marketplaces (Amazon, RockAuto, specialty wiper sites) where you can search by vehicle or by refill size
• Auto parts stores (stock varies; some carry generic “cut-to-length” refills and a few model-specific inserts)

If a local store doesn’t stock the exact insert, online searches by part number or by width/length specs usually turn up options.

Vehicles and blade types most likely to support refills

While not universal, the following categories frequently accept replacement inserts rather than full blades.

• Japanese-brand OEM blades on late-model vehicles (especially Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Subaru, Mazda)
• Conventional “bridged” frames with open end-caps that allow the insert to slide out
• Select beam blades designed with removable end caps (often OEM-spec units, and some aftermarket silicone blades like PIAA)
• Commercial and fleet blades that use standardized refill channels (6 mm or 8 mm)

Rear wipers are hit-or-miss: some accept refills, but many require a full rear blade assembly unique to the vehicle.

How to tell if your blade is refillable

Before you buy, check these points to avoid compatibility issues and returns.

• Look for a removable end cap on the blade and a visible channel holding the rubber insert (plus two thin metal rails)
• Check your owner’s manual or the OEM parts catalog for “insert” or “refill” part numbers
• Measure the insert width (commonly 6 mm or 8 mm) and length; note any locking tab style
• Search your blade brand/model to see if a matching refill exists; some sealed beam blades do not accept refills

If you can’t remove an end cap or see a slide-out channel, the blade likely isn’t designed for refills.

Pros and cons of buying refills

Refills aren’t always the best choice, but they offer clear advantages in the right situations.

• Pros: lower cost (often $5–$15 per refill), less waste, quick swap if your frame is in good shape, access to premium rubber (including silicone) for compatible frames
• Cons: not all blades support refills; fitment can be finicky; older frames may have weak springs or corroded joints; store availability is inconsistent

If your blade frame is worn, a full replacement assembly can restore wiping quality better than a new insert alone.

How to replace and size a refill

Refill replacement is straightforward if your blade supports it. Gather a towel to protect the windshield and follow these steps.

1. Lift the wiper arm and lay a towel on the glass in case the arm snaps back
2. Pop off the blade’s end cap (if present) and slide out the old insert with its metal rails
3. Match the new insert’s width and length; transfer or install the metal rails if the refill requires them
4. Slide the new insert into the channel until it locks; trim to length if using a cut-to-fit refill
5. Reinstall the end cap and test on a wet windshield; check for streaks or noise

If the insert won’t slide smoothly, confirm the width (6 mm vs 8 mm) and orientation of the locking tabs, and inspect for bent rails.

Typical costs and part-number tips

OEM refills at dealerships usually run about $8–$20 each; aftermarket refills range roughly $5–$15. Full blade assemblies typically cost $12–$35 each for conventional/beam blades and more for premium silicone. If you’re shopping online, search your vehicle plus “wiper insert” or use OEM part numbers from the parts diagram. For universal refills, knowing width (6 mm or 8 mm) and exact length is essential.

Environmental angle

Refills cut plastic waste by reusing the existing frame. If your climate quickly degrades rubber (extreme heat, UV, or freezing), silicone refills or full silicone blades can last longer, reducing replacement frequency.

Bottom line

You can buy just wiper blade refills, but it depends on your blade design. OEM inserts from brands like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru are widely available, and aftermarket options exist (TRICO, Dorman, PIAA, Silblade) for compatible frames. If your blade doesn’t support refills—or the frame is worn—replace the entire assembly for best performance.

Summary

Wiper refills remain available, especially through dealers and select aftermarket brands, but many modern blades are non-refillable. Verify your blade supports inserts, measure width and length, and source OEM or compatible refills if possible. Choose refills to save money and waste when your frame is sound; opt for full blades when compatibility or frame condition is in doubt.

Can you replace just the rubber on a wiper blade?

Yes, it is possible and often recommended to replace just the rubber portion of a windshield wiper blade, also known as the refill. This is a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option compared to replacing the entire wiper blade assembly. 
Reasons to replace only the rubber:

• Cost savings: Wiper blade refills are significantly cheaper than purchasing new wiper blade assemblies. 
• Environmental impact: Replacing only the rubber reduces waste and the consumption of resources. 
• Some wiper blades are designed for refill replacement: Many modern wiper blades, especially those from manufacturers like Toyota, are designed with replaceable rubber inserts. 

How to replace the rubber:

1. 1. Identify the type of wiper blade: Some wiper blades have a design that allows for easy rubber replacement, while others require more effort or are not designed for it. 
2. 2. Purchase the correct refill: Ensure you purchase the correct size and type of refill for your wiper blade. 
3. 3. Remove the old rubber: This often involves sliding the rubber out of the wiper blade housing or removing a retaining clip. 
4. 4. Install the new rubber: Insert the new rubber refill into the wiper blade housing, ensuring it is properly secured. 
5. 5. Reinstall the wiper blade: Attach the wiper blade back onto the wiper arm, and you’re done. 

Considerations:

• Ease of replacement varies: Some wiper blades are easier to replace than others, and some may require specific tools. 
• Some manufacturers do not design for refills: Some wiper blades are designed for complete replacement, and you may need to replace the entire blade assembly if refills are not available or easily replaced. 
• Consider the overall condition of the wiper arm: If the wiper arm is also worn or damaged, it may be more beneficial to replace the entire blade assembly. 

In summary, replacing the rubber on wiper blades is a viable and often recommended option for saving money and reducing waste. However, it’s essential to ensure your wiper blades are designed for refills and to follow the appropriate steps for replacement.

Does Autozone still install wiper blades for free?

Yes, AutoZone will install your new wiper blades for free, provided you purchase the blades at their store. An “AutoZoner” will assist you in finding the correct blades for your vehicle and will perform the installation in the parking lot at no additional cost. 
Here’s how the service works: 

1. Purchase the blades: Visit your local AutoZone and buy a new set of wiper blades.
2. Ask for installation: Inform the staff that you would like assistance with the installation.
3. Free installation: An AutoZoner will help you find the right blades and install them for you in the store’s parking lot.

This free installation service is a common offering at AutoZone and other auto parts retailers like O’Reilly and Advance Auto Parts.

Do they sell single wiper blades?

Please note that replacements are sold Individually (one assembly). If you need a replacement for more than one wiper blade, please order the appropriate number of replacement assemblies.

Are wiper blade refills any good?

Wiper refills offer a budget-friendly solution, but they may have limitations in durability and performance. Complete wiper blades, with their integrated frame and rubber insert, are often more effective in clearing the windshield.