Can you use a 17 inch wiper blade instead of a 16?
When it comes to replacing your windshield wiper blades, you might wonder if you can use a slightly larger or smaller size than what your vehicle manufacturer recommends. Specifically, can you use a 17-inch wiper blade instead of a 16-inch? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Wiper Blade Sizing
Windshield wiper blades are designed to fit specific vehicles based on the size and curvature of the windshield. The size of the wiper blade directly affects its ability to clear rain, snow, and debris effectively. Using the wrong size can lead to issues such as poor visibility or even damage to your wiper system.
What Happens If You Use a 17-Inch Blade Instead of a 16-Inch?
While it might seem like a minor difference, using a 17-inch wiper blade in place of a 16-inch blade can have several implications:
- Overlapping or Misalignment: A longer blade may overlap with the other wiper blade or extend beyond the windshield, causing it to miss areas or create streaks.
- Increased Wear and Tear: The extra length can put additional strain on the wiper motor and arms, potentially leading to premature wear or failure.
- Reduced Effectiveness: If the blade doesn’t fit the curvature of the windshield properly, it may not make full contact with the glass, leaving areas uncleared.
When Is It Okay to Use a Different Size?
In some cases, a slightly different size might work, but it’s important to consider the following:
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check your vehicle’s owner manual or consult with a trusted auto repair shop to confirm the correct size.
- Test Fit: If you’re in a pinch and need to use a different size temporarily, test the blade to ensure it doesn’t interfere with the other wiper or extend beyond the windshield.
- Temporary Solution: Using a different size should only be a short-term fix. Replace it with the correct size as soon as possible.
Conclusion: Stick to the Recommended Size
While it might be tempting to use a 17-inch wiper blade instead of a 16-inch, it’s generally best to stick to the size recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. This ensures optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your wiper system. If you’re unsure about the right size or need assistance, feel free to visit Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and professional service. We’re here to help keep your vehicle in top shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you shorten a wiper blade?
We strongly advise you not to cut your wipers. Even high-quality wiper blades can be obtained at a low cost these days, so it's advisable to invest the money in a new set of wipers instead.
Can I use a different size wiper blade?
If you replace your wipers with a smaller sized blade, you will find that there are areas of the windshield that are not cleared. And some of these areas may be critical for safe operation of the vehicle. Check your owner's manual and only replace your wiper blades with the size specified by the manufacturer.
Are wiper blade sizes universal?
No, wiper blades aren't universal. Cars come in a whole range of shapes and sizes, from sports cars to SUVs, and each has a different sized windscreen and wiper blade.
Is it OK to use shorter wiper blades?
Choosing a blade that's too short can leave large areas of your windshield unaffected, lowering your visibility. Blades that are too long can hit each other and cause damage to the blade mechanism.
What happens if you use the wrong size windshield wiper?
Using the wrong size wipers can lead to inadequate coverage, streaking, or even damage to your windshield.
Does the bigger windshield wiper go on?
To give the driver with the most visibility and safety, the larger wiper blade should always be placed on the driver's side of the car. To ensure the optimum performance, make sure to pick the appropriate wiper blades for your car and instal them in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Can you use a 17 inch wiper blade instead of a 16 car?
Does Size Really Matter? Size matters to a point, just as long as you are about 1 inch higher or lower than your current wiper blade size. If you buy wiper blades that are too big, they might overlap or touch which will cause them to break.
How to shorten a wiper blade?
On all you do is just open the door the snap locks. And then you can adjust the length of the arm by pulling on the outer part of the arm.
Do wiper blades have to match?
Though some vehicles have wipers that are the same length, most have subtle differences between the left and right side. This is evidenced through the fact that when buying new blades, most come with the driver and passenger side separately labeled.
Can you cut wiper blades to size?
Tip: If you cannot find refills that match the length of your blades, buy the closest to your size and cut them using a knife to match your length. Ensure the width of the wiper refill matches your blade width.
