Set the Wipers to the Service Position

To change the wiper blades on a Kia Picanto (2011–2017), or to lift the arms clear of the glass in winter, you need the wipers in the raised service position. The TA has no electronic “service mode” — the arms simply lift off the windshield once they are parked at the bottom.

Getting the wipers into the service position

1. Make sure the wipers are parked at the bottom of the windshield. If they are stopped partway up, switch the ignition on, let them return to the park position, then switch the ignition off.
2. Lift each wiper arm away from the glass until it stays upright on its own.
3. Support the arm as it comes up — do not let it spring back against the windshield, as the arm tip can chip or crack the glass.

With the arms raised you can clean or replace the blades, or leave them standing off the glass overnight to stop them freezing down.

Replacing the blades

1. With the arm raised, turn the blade assembly across the arm to expose the plastic locking clip.
2. Squeeze the clip and slide the blade down and off the hook of the arm.
3. Slide the new blade on until it clicks into place, then gently tug it to confirm it is locked.
4. Lower the arm carefully back onto the glass.
5. The rear wiper blade (where fitted) pulls off the arm the same way once the arm is lifted.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Kia Picanto have a wiper service mode?

No. There is no menu or ignition trick — once the wipers are parked, you simply lift the arms off the windshield by hand.

Why won’t my wiper arm stay up?

Lift it slowly to its full stop; it should hold itself vertical. If it drops back, it has not reached the detent — raise it a little further.

What size wiper blades does the TA Picanto use?

Blade lengths vary slightly by market and model year, so confirm the fitment by registration or against the old blades before buying.

For broader maintenance guidance across makes, see autodtcs.com.