Honda Civic Rear Wiper Delete: What It Does and How to Install
By PRL Motorsports - Premium Automotive Performance Products | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn what a rear wiper delete does for your Honda Civic hatchback or Type R, its benefits and trade-offs, and follow our step-by-step installation guide.
Quick Answer
A rear wiper delete replaces your Honda Civic hatchback or Type R's rear wiper with a low-profile plate kit, saving weight and giving a cleaner look. The PRL Motorsports kit is a straightforward bolt-on that takes about 30 minutes to install.
Why Delete the Rear Wiper?
Removing the rear wiper is a popular cosmetic and weight-saving mod for hatchbacks and SUVs. The PRL Motorsports kit uses two CNC'd aluminum plates that sandwich the rear glass, creating a streamlined appearance without leaving an exposed hole. It also eliminates the wiper arm and motor, which can reduce rear-end weight slightly.
But it's not for everyone. If you frequently drive in rain or snow, the rear wiper is genuinely useful for visibility. Deleting it means relying on rear defroster and rain repellent treatments. Consider your climate and driving habits before committing.
What's in the Kit?
The PRL Motorsports kit includes two CNC'd aluminum plates—an inner and outer—that sandwich the rear window glass. Integrated O-rings on both plates help seal against moisture and rattles. It fits all 2017+ Honda Civic Hatchback and Type R models, and most modern Honda/Acura models with a rear wiper.
Because the kit is model-specific, you don't need to cut or modify anything. The installation is reversible, so you can return to a factory wiper later if you change your mind.
Installation Steps
- Gather Tools and Prep: You'll need a socket set (typically 10mm and 12mm), a trim removal tool, and a clean microfiber towel. Park on a flat surface and open the hatch. Remove the plastic trim covers around the wiper motor and arm—use the trim tool to avoid scratching clips. Check that you have the correct socket sizes before starting to avoid stripping bolts.
- Remove the Wiper Arm: Lift the wiper arm away from the glass and remove the nut securing it to the motor spindle. Mark the arm position with tape if you plan to reinstall it later. Gently rock the arm side-to-side to free it from the splines, then pull it off. Do not force the arm off—use a puller if it's stuck to avoid damaging the motor.
- Unbolt the Wiper Motor: Remove the bolts holding the wiper motor to the hatch. Disconnect the electrical connector and carefully pull the motor and linkage out through the opening. Keep the bolts and connector in a safe place. Take a photo of the wiring and bolt positions before removal to make reassembly easier.
- Install the Delete Plates: Clean the glass around the wiper hole. Place the outer plate (the one with the visible finish) on the outside, then the inner plate on the inside. Align the holes and insert the provided screws. Tighten them evenly with a screwdriver or socket, but do not overtighten—the glass can crack. Use a torque wrench if available; the spec is usually around 5-7 Nm, but check the instructions.
- Test and Clean Up: Close the hatch and check that the plates sit flush and the O-rings are visible. Wipe away any fingerprints or smudges. If you removed trim, snap it back into place. Do a quick water test with a spray bottle to ensure the seal is watertight.
Product Spotlight
- PRL Motorsports Honda / Acura Rear Wiper Delete Kit: The PRL Motorsports Honda/Acura Rear Wiper Delete Kit uses two CNC'd aluminum plates with integrated O-rings to sandwich the rear window glass. This gives a low-profile, streamlined look while keeping the glass sealed and rattle-free.
PRL Motorsports Honda / Acura Rear Wiper Delete Kit
