How to Replace Windshield Wipers on a 2016 Audi Q5

To replace the windshield wipers on a 2016 Audi Q5, lift the wiper arms into service position, release each blade using the locking tab on the clip, slide it off the arm, then install new, compatible blades by sliding and clicking them into place before lowering the arms back onto the windshield. The process is straightforward, can usually be done in under 15 minutes, and requires no special tools, but following the correct steps helps prevent damage to the windshield or wiper system.

Why Replacing Wiper Blades Matters on an Audi Q5

The 2016 Audi Q5 uses an aerodynamic, hookless wiper system designed to maximize visibility and minimize noise at highway speeds. Over time, rubber on the blades hardens, cracks, or deforms, leading to streaks, smearing, and reduced visibility in rain, snow, or road spray. Replacing worn wipers is both a basic safety measure and an easy DIY task that keeps the vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance systems, such as rain-sensing wipers, working properly.

What You Need Before You Start

Correct Wiper Blade Sizes and Types

The 2016 Audi Q5 uses two different wiper blade lengths on the front, and many drivers also opt to replace the rear blade at the same time. Using the correct size is essential to ensure full coverage and to avoid interference between blades.

• Front driver’s side: typically 24 inches (600–610 mm)
• Front passenger’s side: typically 20 inches (500 mm)
• Rear wiper: typically 11–12 inches (280–300 mm), model and brand dependent

Although sizes may vary slightly by manufacturer, most major brands list the 2016 Audi Q5 in their fitment guides. It is best to confirm with a parts catalog or the packaging label to ensure compatibility before purchase.

Recommended Tools and Materials

While the procedure is largely tool-free, having a few basic items on hand will make the job easier and help protect the windshield and surrounding trim.

• New wiper blades designed for the 2016 Audi Q5 (front pair, and rear if desired)
• Soft towel or folded cloth to protect the glass in case a wiper arm snaps down
• Glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the windshield before or after installation
• Owner’s manual for reference to model-specific notes

These simple preparations reduce the chance of scratching the windshield, damaging the new blades, or misreading the fittings on your particular wiper brand.

Step-by-Step: Replacing the Front Wiper Blades

1. Put the Wipers in Service Position

Because the Q5’s wipers rest low at the base of the windshield and under the hood line, Audi provides a “service position” to raise them higher for safe access. Engaging this mode prevents the arms from being obstructed by the hood and gives more space to work.

1. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine).
2. Turn the wipers on briefly, then switch the ignition off when they reach their rest position.
3. Within a few seconds of turning off the ignition, pull the wiper stalk down (as if activating a single wipe) and release it. The wipers should move up into a vertical service position on the windshield.
4. Once in service position, gently lift each wiper arm away from the glass until it locks in the raised position.

Placing the wipers in service position ensures safe clearance and makes it much easier to remove and install blades without forcing the arms or scraping the hood edge.

2. Remove the Old Wiper Blades

The 2016 Audi Q5 typically uses a side-pin or proprietary-style connector with a locking tab. Removal involves releasing that tab and sliding the blade away from the arm.

1. Support the raised wiper arm with one hand to prevent it from snapping back onto the glass.
2. Locate the release tab or button where the blade meets the arm. On many Audi Q5-compatible blades, this is a small plastic tab on the top or underside of the connector.
3. Press or pull the tab while gently sliding the blade toward the base of the arm (away from the windshield) to disengage it from the connector.
4. Once released, slide the blade completely off the arm and set it aside.
5. Carefully lower the bare metal arm onto a folded towel placed on the windshield, or continue holding it if you’re immediately installing the new blade.

Handling the arms carefully during removal prevents accidental impact with the windshield, which can crack the glass or chip the surface, especially in cold weather.

3. Install the New Front Wiper Blades

Installing the new blades is essentially the reverse of removal: align the connector, slide the blade into position, and lock it until you hear or feel a click. Proper orientation is important to avoid chatter, noise, or reduced sweeping area.

1. Confirm the new blades are labeled for “driver” and “passenger” if the set distinguishes between sides. The longer blade goes on the driver’s side.
2. Hold the wiper arm in one hand and align the new blade’s connector with the arm’s attachment point.
3. Slide the connector into place along the designated track or pin until it stops.
4. Push firmly until you hear or feel a distinct “click,” indicating the locking tab is engaged.
5. Gently tug on the blade to confirm it is securely attached and does not slide off.
6. Repeat the process for the other front wiper arm.

This careful installation ensures each blade is seated correctly, reducing the risk of detachment at speed and helping maintain smooth, quiet operation during rain or snow.

4. Return the Wipers from Service Position

Once the new blades are installed, it is important to bring the wipers out of service mode so they can operate normally. Audi’s system returns them to the park position automatically.

1. Gently lower each wiper arm—with the new blade attached—back onto the windshield.
2. Get into the vehicle and switch the ignition on.
3. Tap the wiper stalk once or switch the wipers to an intermittent setting for a moment.
4. The wipers should sweep and then park back down at the base of the windshield, exiting service position.

Verifying that the wipers return smoothly and rest correctly confirms that the installation is complete and the arms are properly synchronized with the vehicle’s controls.

How to Replace the Rear Wiper Blade (If Equipped)

Accessing and Removing the Rear Blade

The rear wiper on the 2016 Audi Q5 has a compact arm and blade, typically using a small hook or clip-style connector. Access is a little different from the front, but the principle is the same: lift, release, and slide off.

1. Open the rear hatch for easier access, if needed.
2. Gently lift the rear wiper arm away from the rear glass until it sits outward.
3. Locate the small release clip where the blade attaches to the arm. This may require gently rotating the blade away from the arm to expose the connector.
4. Press the release tab or pull the locking clip, then slide the blade off the arm’s small hook or pivot.
5. Set the old blade aside and avoid letting the arm snap against the rear glass.

Once removed, the connector style becomes apparent, making it easier to correctly orient the new rear blade during installation.

Installing the New Rear Wiper Blade

Installing the new rear blade is a simple matter of aligning it with the arm’s connector, sliding it into place, and locking it. The compact design means the correct click engagement is crucial to keep the blade secure.

1. Verify that the replacement rear blade is listed as compatible with the 2016 Audi Q5.
2. Align the new blade’s connector with the rear arm’s hook or pivot point.
3. Slide or snap the blade into position until you hear or feel a click or positive engagement.
4. Gently pull on the blade to ensure it is firmly locked onto the arm.
5. Lower the arm back onto the rear glass and close the hatch if it was open.

Completing this rear blade swap ensures that rear visibility is restored in bad weather, an important safety factor when changing lanes, reversing, or driving in heavy spray.

Testing and Fine-Tuning After Installation

Check Wipe Pattern and Noise

After replacing wiper blades, it is important to verify that they make full, smooth contact with the glass and do not produce unusual sounds. A quick functional test can reveal installation issues or windshield contamination.

1. Spray washer fluid or use a hose to wet the front and rear glass.
2. Turn on the front wipers at low speed and watch the sweep pattern.
3. Look for streaks, missed areas, or chattering (rapid vibration and noise).
4. Repeat the test for the rear wiper.
5. If streaks persist, clean the glass and the rubber edges of the new blades with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

This testing phase confirms that the new blades are seated correctly and that the windshield surface is clean enough to allow the rubber to glide smoothly.

How Often to Replace Wiper Blades on a 2016 Audi Q5

Typical Replacement Intervals

The lifespan of wiper blades varies with climate, driving conditions, and storage, but most manufacturers and automotive experts recommend replacement about once a year, or sooner if symptoms appear. For a 2016 Audi Q5 still in regular use, annual or semiannual checks are a practical routine.

• Every 6–12 months in harsh climates (extreme heat, cold, or heavy UV exposure)
• Annually in moderate climates with typical use
• Anytime you notice streaking, skipping, squeaking, or visible rubber damage

Regular inspection and timely replacement reduce the risk of impaired visibility and also help protect the windshield from scratches caused by hardened or torn rubber edges.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your New Wiper Blades

Simple Habits for Better Performance

Good maintenance habits can significantly extend the useful life of your wiper blades on the Audi Q5, saving money and preserving performance between replacements.

• Clean the windshield regularly to remove dirt, pollen, and road film that wear down the rubber.
• Wipe the rubber edges of the blades with a damp cloth every few weeks.
• Avoid using wipers on dry glass; use washer fluid first to lubricate the sweep.
• In winter, clear ice and heavy snow manually rather than forcing the wipers to break it.
• Lift the wipers off the glass in severe freezing conditions when parked to prevent sticking.

These simple preventive steps help keep the blades flexible and effective, reducing chatter and streaking throughout their service life.

Summary

Replacing the windshield wipers on a 2016 Audi Q5 is a quick, no-tools job that centers on placing the arms in service position, releasing the old blades from their connectors, and clicking new, correctly sized blades into place. Ensuring proper fitment for the driver, passenger, and rear blades, handling the arms carefully to protect the glass, and testing the wipe pattern after installation are key to success. With periodic replacement and basic care, the Q5’s wiper system will maintain clear visibility and safe driving in all weather conditions.

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.

What size wiper blades for a 2016 Audi Q5?

2016 Audi Q5 Wiper Blades Size/Price Chart

Car	Driver	Pass.
2016 Audi Q5	24 in.	20 in.

How to put Audi Q5 wipers in service mode?

To put your Audi Q5 wipers in service position, turn the car off, then hold the wiper stalk in the “mist” position until the wipers move up to the service position. Once finished, you can either turn the car on and flick the stalk down, or use the MMI touchscreen under “Settings,” “Vehicle,” and “Service” to return them to their normal position. 
This video demonstrates how to set the wipers to service mode on an Audi Q5: 1mEuropean Auto RepairYouTube · Jun 19, 2023
Method 1: Using the wiper stalk

1. Turn the car completely off. 
2. Press the brake and the push-button ignition twice quickly, then turn the car off one last time. 
3. With the ignition off, lift the wiper stalk all the way up to the “mist” position and hold it for a few seconds until the wipers move to the upright service position. 
4. Carefully lift the wiper arms off the windshield. 
5. To return the wipers to their normal position, turn the car on and flick the wiper stalk down once. 

This video shows how to use the wiper stalk to put the wipers in service mode: 34sLarry FoppsYouTube · Jan 8, 2023
Method 2: Using the MMI touchscreen 

1. Turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine. 
2. Use the MMI system to access the “Settings” menu, then “Vehicle”. 
3. Select “Service” and then “Wiper change position” or “Service Mode”. 
4. The wipers will automatically move to the service position. 
5. Once you have finished, access the same menu and toggle the service mode off to return the wipers to their normal resting position. 

How to replace windshield wipers on Audi Q5?

Four. It’s really easy to replace there’s an arrow on the front. You just line it up with the arrow on the wiper. And you just push it. Down. And you could hear it kind of snap.