Do I need two different size windshield wipers?
The short answer is: it depends. The size of your windshield wipers should match the specific requirements of your vehicle. In most cases, you will need two windshield wipers of the same size, but there are some situations where you may need wipers of different sizes.
Understanding Windshield Wiper Sizes
Windshield wipers come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 12 inches to 28 inches in length. The size you need depends on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Manufacturers design vehicles with specific wiper sizes in mind to ensure optimal coverage and performance.
Most passenger vehicles use two wipers of the same size, usually between 16 and 22 inches long. However, some vehicles, particularly larger ones like SUVs, trucks, or vans, may have a driver's side wiper that is longer than the passenger side wiper.
Determining Your Wiper Size Needs
To determine the correct wiper size for your vehicle, you can check your owner's manual or look up the information online. Many auto parts stores also have tools or databases that can help you find the right size based on your vehicle's make, model, and year.
- If your vehicle uses two wipers of the same size, you should replace both with the same size wiper.
- If your vehicle has a longer driver's side wiper and a shorter passenger side wiper, you'll need to replace them with the correct sizes.
- Mixing wiper sizes can result in poor coverage and performance, so it's important to use the recommended sizes for your vehicle.
Properly maintaining and replacing your windshield wipers is essential for safe driving, as they play a crucial role in keeping your windshield clear and providing you with a clear view of the road ahead.
Is it okay to just replace one windshield wiper?
It is recommended that wipers be replaced in pairs. If you drive an SUV, minivan or hatchback, be sure to keep an eye on the wiper blade on the rear window for signs that it needs replacing.
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.
Can you mix and match wiper blades?
Can I mix and match wiper blades? Yes. You can mix brands as long as they are compatible with your vehicle and match the required size.
What happens if you use the wrong size wiper blade?
If you're unsure about the size, it's better not to guess. Using the wrong size could result in inadequate windshield clearing, wiper malfunction, or even damage to your windshield.
Is one windshield wiper supposed to be bigger?
Blades on the driver's side extend longer than the passenger side to provide the best visibility for the person behind the steering wheel. Choosing a blade that's too short can leave large areas of your windshield unaffected, lowering your visibility.
Are windshield wipers supposed to be two different sizes?
The answer is it depends on the car but usually they are the same length. However, a better answer to your question is at most auto parts stores they have a catalog right next to the wiper blades where you can look up your car make and model and it will tell you exactly which part number wiper blades to choose.
Do both windshield wipers need to be the same?
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.
Do wiper blades need to be exact size?
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.
What is the most common wiper blade size?
Standard ranges for both passenger and light commercial blades are from about 9'' (approximately 225mm) to 28'' (approximately 700mm) long. They come in both front and rear varieties. To check the size of your blades: Lift the blades away from the windshield and straighten them (if they're curved).
Can I use a 16 inch wiper blade instead of 17?
The difference between 16" and 17" is again too small to create any issues. If the wipers are working smoothly without brushing with each other, there's no need to change. Here's what BHPian abhishek46 had to say on the matter: Nothing will happen to the glass.
