Checker Auto Parts

I needed to replace my wiper blades. Since my car is a Toyota, I started with the dealer. «We don’t carry ‘em. You might try Pep Boys.» The word «aftermarket» came up. That should have tipped me off. He wanted to impress me with special insider jargon.
AutoZone was next. «We don’t carry ‘em. Try Checker across the street.»
At Checker, the friendly clerk sent me to a rack that held the rubber blades. I selected those I needed.
When I checked out, the clerk said offhandedly, «Most people just replace the whole arm. It’s easier and it only costs a couple of dollars more.»
The arm. I thought the arm was the piece of gear that attaches to the wiper motor and swings back and forth. Why would I replace that? The arm is fine, it’s the rubber blade that has disintegrated.
It turns out that in auto parts lingo, the arm is the rubber blade AND the metal bracket that holds it. It’s idiotically simple. The arm snaps out. The replacement arm snaps in, easy as pie. I still don’t know what they call the metal dealiebob that swings back and forth. Why isn’t that the arm?
As soon as the associate explained it to me, I realized that my difficulty with the Toyota dealer and AutoZone was simply one of terminology. I guess it’s better to say «Gimme new wipers.» Don’t say «blades.» They think you’re talking about the rubber part only.
I’m happy that the plain-​talking Checker guy finally set me straight. He gets at least five stars for knowing how to communicate with guys who aren’t versed in proper car lingo.
Now I have to wonder what the hell was wrong with that guy at Find-​lay Toyota who couldn’t figure out what I was asking for. All he had to do was say «Sure we’ll replace your wipers» and call it a day. Wipers, blades, arms – who cares? All I need is for my windshield to be swept clean of water. I think any moron understands that. Why does it have to be complicated?
I’ve never had this problem before. Was he trying to be a smartass? I can’t believe this guy is sending everyone who asks for blades to Pep Boys. What a d**k.