How to Change Windshield Wipers on a 2018 Audi A5

To change the windshield wipers on a 2018 Audi A5, lift the arms into service position via the car’s wiper settings, remove the old blades with their clip mechanism, and snap in new, model‑compatible blades before lowering the arms back onto the windshield. Below is a detailed, step‑by‑step guide, including safety tips, tools, and common mistakes to avoid.

Understanding the 2018 Audi A5 Wiper System

The 2018 Audi A5 uses an aero-style, hookless wiper system that relies on model-specific adapters rather than the older, simple “hook” arm. This makes replacement straightforward but requires blades that are properly matched to Audi’s mounting design and correct lengths for driver and passenger sides.

Wiper Sizes and Compatibility

The Audi A5 from the 2018 model year (including Coupe, Sportback, and Cabriolet variants) generally uses different-length blades for the driver and passenger side. Exact sizes can vary slightly by market and trim, so it’s important to confirm your specific configuration.

The following list outlines the typical size and compatibility considerations for a 2018 Audi A5’s wiper blades:

• Driver’s side: Typically around 24 inches (600 mm) aero-style blade.
• Passenger’s side: Typically around 20 inches (500 mm) aero-style blade.
• Rear wiper (Sportback only): Shorter, model-specific rear blade (if equipped).
• Blade type: Flat “beam” or “aero” blades designed for Audi/VW-type wiper arms with integrated adapters.
• Recommended options: OEM Audi blades from a dealer, or reputable aftermarket brands (e.g., Bosch, Valeo, Michelin) specifically listing compatibility with “Audi A5 2018.”

Confirming sizes and compatibility ensures that the blades fit securely, clear the glass properly, and maintain quiet, streak-free operation under all weather conditions.

Preparation Before Replacing Wipers

Preparation reduces the chances of scratching the windshield, breaking a clip, or installing the wrong part. Audi’s service position for the wipers is particularly important because of how low the arms sit when parked.

What You Need

While changing wipers on a 2018 Audi A5 is mostly tool-free, having the right supplies on hand can make the process smoother and safer.

• New wiper blades matched to a 2018 Audi A5 (driver and passenger, plus rear if applicable).
• A clean microfiber cloth to protect the glass and clean the windshield.
• A soft towel or folded cloth to place on the windshield as a safety buffer in case a wiper arm snaps back.
• User manual (physical or PDF) for reference to Audi’s exact wiper service mode instructions.

Gathering these items in advance helps ensure that once you move the wipers into service position, the actual swap is quick and controlled.

Engaging Wiper Service Position

Unlike some older vehicles where you can simply lift the arms at any time, the Audi A5’s wipers tuck under the hood-line and need to be placed in “service position” through the car’s controls. This protects the mechanism and gives you enough room to safely work.

The steps below outline how to put a 2018 Audi A5’s wipers into service position using the onboard controls:

1. Turn on the ignition, but keep the engine off (press the Start/Stop button without pressing the brake, or turn the key to accessory if applicable).
2. Ensure the wiper stalk is in the “off” position.
3. Use the car’s MMI (infotainment) or driver-information menu: navigate to the “Car” or “Vehicle” menu, then to “Settings & Service” or similar, depending on software version.
4. Select the “Wiper service position” or “Service position” option from the menu.
5. Confirm the selection; the wipers will automatically move up and stop vertically on the windshield, clear of the hood line.

Once in service position, the blades are easy to access and lift, reducing the risk of cracking the cowl trim or stressing the wiper arms.

Step-by-Step: Replacing the Front Wiper Blades

With the wipers in service position and the correct new blades at hand, the actual replacement involves carefully lifting each arm, releasing the locking mechanism on the old blades, and installing new ones until they audibly click into place.

1. Lifting and Securing the Wiper Arms

Damage to the windshield commonly occurs if a wiper arm snaps back onto the glass without a blade attached. Taking a few extra seconds to position a protective cloth and hold the arm firmly can prevent expensive repairs.

The following steps outline how to prepare the arms safely before removing the blades:

1. Place a folded towel or microfiber cloth on the lower area of the windshield where the wiper arm would rest.
2. Gently lift the driver’s side wiper arm away from the glass until it stays in a raised position on its own.
3. Support the arm with one hand to prevent it from springing back while you work on the blade.
4. Repeat the same process for the passenger side after you have finished with the driver’s side.

Securing and supporting the wiper arms ensures that the metal arm never impacts bare glass while you are changing blades.

2. Removing the Old Wiper Blades

On the 2018 Audi A5, the blade connects to the arm via a low-profile integrated adapter, usually with a small locking tab. Releasing this clip gently is key to avoiding broken plastic or bent metal.

The following steps describe how to detach the old wiper blades from a 2018 Audi A5:

1. On the underside or top of the wiper arm connection, locate the small plastic release tab or button on the blade’s adapter.
2. Press or pull the tab (depending on design) while simultaneously sliding the blade downward (toward the base of the arm) or away from the arm’s mounting point.
3. Continue to support the wiper arm as you slide the blade fully off the connector.
4. Carefully set the removed blade aside where it will not scratch the paint or glass.
5. If the arm is not stable, gently lower it onto the towel on the windshield while you prepare the new blade.

Removing the blades with controlled pressure on the adapter tab helps prevent damage to the locking mechanism and avoids bending the wiper arm.

3. Installing the New Wiper Blades

New blades for an Audi A5 often come with pre-installed adapters, but in some aftermarket sets you may need to attach the correct adapter from several included options. Always match the adapter to the original one and verify orientation before snapping the blade onto the arm.

The following steps outline how to fit the new blades securely to the wiper arms:

1. Compare the new blade with the old one to confirm the length and adapter shape match.
2. Align the new blade’s adapter with the arm’s mounting point, making sure it is oriented the same way as the original.
3. Slide the blade into the arm’s connector until it engages and you hear or feel a distinct click.
4. Gently tug on the blade to ensure it is locked in place and cannot slide off.
5. Carefully lower the wiper arm back onto the glass, resting it on the windshield or towel.
6. Repeat the same process for the passenger side blade.

Once both new blades are securely installed and tested by a gentle pull, you can be confident they are properly seated and ready for use.

4. Exiting Service Position and Testing

After the new blades are fitted, it is important to return the wipers to their normal parked position and test them with washer fluid to confirm smooth, streak-free operation without unusual noise.

The steps below describe how to exit service mode and verify correct installation:

1. Remove the towel from the windshield and ensure both wiper arms are resting flat on the glass.
2. Turn the ignition on again if needed and navigate back to the same menu where you enabled “Wiper service position.”
3. Deselect or turn off the “Service position” setting; the wipers should automatically return to their normal parked location at the base of the windshield.
4. Activate the wipers at low speed and use the windshield washer to check for smooth movement and full coverage.
5. Listen for any scraping, knocking, or abnormal noise, and watch for missed spots or streaks that may indicate a misaligned or defective blade.

Completing these checks confirms that your new wipers are correctly installed, reducing the risk of poor visibility during rain or snow.

Replacing the Rear Wiper (Audi A5 Sportback, If Equipped)

Some 2018 Audi A5 Sportback models have a rear wiper; the Coupe may not. If your vehicle includes a rear wiper, its blade is shorter and uses a different, simpler mounting system, but the basic removal and replacement process remains similar.

Steps for Rear Wiper Replacement

Because the rear blade is smaller and mounted on a single arm, the process focuses on carefully snapping off the old blade and clicking the new one into position without twisting the rear arm.

The following steps outline how to change the rear wiper on a 2018 Audi A5 Sportback:

1. Ensure the ignition is off and the rear wiper is not active.
2. Lift the rear wiper arm gently away from the rear window until it holds in a raised position.
3. Locate the hinge or clip where the rear blade connects to the arm.
4. Depending on the design, either slide the blade along the arm or pivot it away to release the clip from its mount.
5. Remove the old blade and align the new rear blade with the arm’s mounting point.
6. Push or slide the new blade into place until it snaps or clicks securely.
7. Lower the arm carefully back onto the rear glass and test operation using the rear washer and wiper control.

Following these steps ensures the rear wiper remains firmly attached and sweeps properly, improving rear visibility in wet or snowy conditions.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Several frequent errors can lead to wasted parts, scratched glass, or poor wiping performance. Being aware of these issues helps you avoid repeating them during your own wiper replacement.

Errors to Watch Out For

Understanding typical missteps during wiper replacement can save both time and money, especially on a modern vehicle like the 2018 Audi A5 with a tucked-away wiper design.

• Letting the bare wiper arm snap onto the windshield, which can crack or chip the glass.
• Forcing the adapter clip, leading to broken plastic tabs or a loose blade connection.
• Buying universal blades without confirming Audi A5 compatibility, resulting in incorrect fit or poor wiping pattern.
• Installing blades in reverse orientation, which can cause chatter, noise, or limited contact with the glass.
• Skipping the service position step and trying to pry the arms up from their parked location under the hood edge.
• Failing to test the wipers with washer fluid, leaving streaks or missed areas unnoticed until heavy rain.

By recognizing these common issues in advance, you can work more carefully and ensure your new blades perform as intended from the first use.

When to Replace Wiper Blades on a 2018 Audi A5

Even high-quality wiper blades wear down due to UV exposure, temperature changes, and road grime. Knowing when to replace them helps you maintain safe visibility without waiting until a storm exposes their weaknesses.

Signs Your Wipers Need Replacing

Regular inspection, especially before winter or a long trip, can highlight early warning signs that your Audi A5’s wiper blades are due for replacement.

• Streaking or smearing across the windshield, even after cleaning the glass.
• Chattering, squeaking, or skipping motions during operation.
• Visible cracks, splits, or hardened rubber on the blade edges.
• Uneven wiping pattern, leaving unwiped bands in the driver’s field of view.
• Excessive noise during normal rainfall at low or medium wiper speeds.

Responding promptly to these symptoms by installing new blades helps keep your view clear and reduces eye strain during poor weather.

Summary

Changing the windshield wipers on a 2018 Audi A5 involves placing the wipers into service position via the vehicle’s menu, safely lifting and supporting each wiper arm, releasing the existing aero-style blades with their integrated clips, and snapping in new, properly sized blades before testing them with washer fluid. Using compatible, high-quality blades and observing care not to let bare arms strike the glass are the key precautions. With a few basic steps and attention to detail, most owners can complete this maintenance task themselves in under 20 minutes, improving visibility and safety in all driving conditions.

What size wiper blades for Audi A5?

2022 Audi A5 Sportback Wiper Blades Size Chart

Car	Driver	Pass.
2022 Audi A5 Sportback	24 in.	20 in.

How to change 2018 Audi A4 windshield wipers?

Okay so I’m going push back and push it back in now what I noticed if you do get a blade. It’s going to be more skinnier. The adapter. So it’s going to be a C which I noticed is for the Audi’s.

Do Audis need special wiper blades?

Modern Audis might favor beam blades for their arc matching the windshield’s curvature, whereas older models may still employ conventional blades. In any case, your choice should bolster the clear vision and premium feel synonymous with owning an Audi.

Can I replace my wiper blades myself?

Yes, you can easily replace windshield wipers yourself by following a few simple steps: lift the wiper arm, unhook the old blade, attach the new blade, and test it out. It’s a simple and cost-effective task that can be done with basic tools, and most auto parts stores can help you find the correct size and type of replacement for your vehicle. 
How to replace your windshield wipers
This video demonstrates how to change windshield wipers: 1mAdvance Auto PartsYouTube · Jun 14, 2019

1. Determine the correct size: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask an employee at an auto parts store to find the correct length and attachment style for your car. 
2. Lift the wiper arm: Gently lift the wiper arm away from the windshield until it locks into place. To protect your windshield from the arm, you can place a towel on the glass where the blade normally rests. 
3. Remove the old blade: Locate the release tab or clip at the point where the blade connects to the arm. Press or slide this tab to disengage it, then pull the old blade down and off the arm. 
4. Attach the new blade: Slide the new blade onto the arm, making sure the hook or connector is properly aligned. Push the new blade up into the arm’s hook until you hear a distinct “click” or feel it lock into place. Gently tug on the new blade to confirm it is secure. 
5. Lower and test: Carefully lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield. Start the vehicle and test the new wipers with washer fluid to ensure they move smoothly and don’t skip or streak.