We've all been there, confidently turning down help only to realize minutes later that we actually have no idea what we're doing. A skit captures this all-too-common moment when a confident customer realizes they actually need help. In a video with more than 8,000 views, Gibby (@thenaughtygarage), who works at Advance Auto Parts, acts out a scenario that plays out daily at auto parts stores across the country. In the skit, Gibby plays both the customer and the Advance Auto Parts employee. “Oh man, not this guy again, come on,” Gibby says, clearly annoyed to see the customer approaching him at checkout. The man somewhat rudely throws down windshield wipers and just grunts when Gibby asks if he got everything he needed. Gibby lets the hypothetical customer know that they offer free installation for windshield wipers. "If you would like us to do them for you, it won't be a problem," he says. FROM THE TRENDING NEWS DESK Viral bits from across the social media landscape Our team of experts tracks what's trending so you don't have to—from viral videos to online debates that have everyone talking. "Son, I've been a mechanic for 25 years. You think I need your help installing some windshield wipers?" the man retorts. Gibby quickly backs off, letting the guy know that he was just informing him of the offer. But 15 minutes later the seasoned mechanic comes back, just like Gibby thought would happen. "Yeah. Here he comes. Mr. I've been a mechanic for 25 years,” Gibby says. “You know, I changed my mind, actually. I'm gonna utilize that if you don't mind coming out here and helping me out with these, please,” the mechanic says. "Ohhh these are my favorite!! Expert at everything till ya ain't!" Gibby writes in the caption. Why Are Windshield Wipers So Hard to Install The skit taps into a phenomenon that's surprisingly common even among experienced mechanics: windshield wiper installation isn't always as straightforward as it seems. According to comments, even mechanics with decades of experience often let auto parts stores handle wiper installation. One commenter who's been in the field for 35 years admitted being "sometimes perplexed by wiper installation on some cars," asking, "Why are they constantly reinventing the damn wheel?" The issue isn't about skill—it's about the sheer variety of wiper attachment mechanisms. Different vehicle makes and models use varying systems and ever-changing designs. One commenter who's been installing wipers for 18 years said new designs still stress them out. How to Actually Change Windshield Wipers While the task can be tricky, changing windshield wipers is technically a simple process that most people can handle. According to Allstate, it typically takes 15 minutes or less on most modern cars. Here's how to do it: Determine the correct blade size. Measure each wiper blade length or check your owner's manual, as windshield wiper sizes are typically expressed in millimeters. Cars usually have longer blades on the driver's side than the passenger side for visibility purposes. Using blades that are too short will miss certain areas, while blades that are too long may hit each other and cause damage. Decide which type of wipers to get. Conventional blades are made of a metal frame, while beam blades are entirely rubber, allowing them to mold to the windshield's curvature. Beam designs tend to be more expensive but may have double the shelf life of conventional blades. Remove the old wipers. Allstate emphasizes that you should always consult your car manual first, as manufacturers vary in how blades are connected. Many vehicles have a tab that connects the blade to the arm. You lift the wiper arm away from the windshield, depress the small tab on the underside where it meets the arm, and slide the blade off by pulling downward. Attach the new blades. Pull the wiper blade tight onto the arm until you hear a clicking sound when it locks into place. Then lower the arm slowly back onto the windshield. Test them before driving. Run the wipers to make sure they're working properly. It's better to discover installation issues in your driveway than in the middle of a downpour. Allstate recommends replacing wiper blades once a year to ensure they work effectively, though you should also watch for signs of wear like smearing, screeching sounds, or visible damage to the blade's edge. Viewers React Gibby’s post attracted a mix of amusement and commiseration. “In the field for 35 years. I am still sometimes perplexed by wiper installation on some cars. I mean, why are they constantly reinventing the [expletive] wheel?” a top comment reads. “I’ve been a mechanic for a good while. Best believe imma let them go ahead and do it gotta take full advantage of free installations,” another said. “There is a difference in a mechanic and a technician! This video explains which is which! There is literally instructions!” a third pointed out. There were some detractors, however. “I worked at O’Reilly and AutoZone and I have never had anyone like this,” wrote one. “I’ll pull over on the side of the road and wait for it to stop raining before I let somebody else change out my wiper blades,” another said. Motor1 reached out to Gibby for comment via TikTok direct message and comment.
Liked by Ava Gagnon, Mia Smith
Liked by Ava Gagnon, Mia Smith
Liked by Ava Gagnon, Mia Smith
