How do I know my windshield wiper size?
The quickest way to know your wiper size is to check official sources or measure and then confirm with a fit tool. Most cars use two different front sizes (left and right) and a separate rear size, so verify each one before buying.
Ways to find the correct size
The following options cover most vehicles and help you avoid wrong purchases.
- Owner’s manual: The manual usually lists the exact blade lengths for the front and rear if applicable.
- Manufacturer or dealer resources: The carmaker’s website or a dealership can provide a precise fitment guide for your year, make, and model.
- Blade packaging or the blade itself: Look for size markings on the packaging or on the blade’s spine; some blades print the length directly on the blade.
- Door jamb or glove compartment labels: Some cars have a sticker in the driver’s door jamb or inside the glove box with recommended blade sizes.
- Retail fitment tools: Auto parts stores and retailer sites let you search by year/make/model or VIN to confirm the correct sizes.
Record the sizes for each blade position (e.g., driver front, passenger front, rear) and double-check if your vehicle uses two different front sizes.
How to measure if labels aren’t available
If you can't locate a reliable label, measuring the blades directly is a dependable method. Use these steps to get accurate lengths.
- Raise the wiper arm away from the windshield and secure it so it won’t snap back.
- Measure the blade length from one end to the other along the edge of the blade, using inches as your unit.
- If you have two front blades, measure each blade separately to determine if they are different lengths.
- For curved or beam blades, measure along the blade’s edge rather than the curve to get the effective length.
- Round to the nearest half-inch if needed; most retailers list blade sizes in whole inches, but some tools accept halves.
- Also measure the rear blade, which is often shorter and may have a different attachment style.
- When in doubt, use a reputable size lookup tool by year/make/model or VIN to confirm before purchasing.
With these measurements, you can confidently select replacement blades that fit your windshield and avoid common fitment problems.
Blade types and compatibility
Note that there are different blade designs and attachment styles (frameless, conventional, hybrid) and various mounting connectors (hook, pin, side lock). Ensure the replacement blade type and attachment match your wiper arm so it installs securely and clears correctly.
Tips for buying and installing
Keep these practical tips in mind to streamline the process and ensure optimal performance.
- When in doubt, replace blades in pairs on the front axle to maintain even wiping and reduce streaking.
- Double-check the specific size for each blade position, especially on vehicles with asymmetrical front blades.
- Consider weather and driving conditions; if you live in icy or dusty regions, choose blades with robust materials and coatings.
- Follow the installation instructions closely for the correct orientation and secure attachment.
By using official sources, precise measurements, and compatible blade types, you’ll ensure a proper fit and clear visibility in all weather.
Quick reference and final checks
Before you buy, do a final verification against your vehicle’s exact make, model, year, and trim. A quick lookup by VIN or model details at a trusted retailer often prevents incorrect purchases and saves a return trip.
Summary: Start with the manual or official fit guides to identify the exact sizes for front and rear blades. If labels aren’t available, measure each blade carefully or use a vehicle-specific fit tool. Ensure you match blade type and attachment to your wiper arms, and consider replacing blades in pairs for best performance and visibility.
How do I find out what wiper blade I need?
You can also find the right replacement wiper blade by looking in your car's owner manual, on the side of the old blade or potentially even on the box of your new blades – just look for your cars make or model on the packaging or leaflet.
What vehicle takes a 26 inch wiper blade?
Many vehicles, particularly the driver's side of older and mid-size models, use a 26-inch wiper blade, including the Honda Accord (2003-2020), Toyota Camry (2012-2020), Nissan Rogue (2008-2020), and Honda Civic (2006-2020). A 26-inch blade is also a common size for the driver's side of other vehicles such as the Ford Explorer, Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and Subaru Forester.
Common vehicles with a 26-inch wiper blade
- Honda: Accord (2003–2020), Civic (2006–2020), Odyssey (2005–2020), CR-V (2007–2017)
- Toyota: Camry (2012–2020), Corolla (2009–2019), RAV4 (2013–2020), Highlander (2008–2020), Sequoia (2008–2019), Tundra (2007–2019)
- Nissan: Rogue (2008–2020), Altima (2002–2006, 2019–2020), Sentra (2007–2012, 2020)
- Ford: Explorer (2011–2019), F-150 (various models), Fusion (2013–2020), Focus (various models)
- Other models: Jeep Cherokee (2014-2020), Acura TLX (2015-2020), Subaru Forester (2014–2018), and many others
Important note
- Always confirm the correct size and fit for your specific vehicle year, make, and model before purchasing.
- Wiper blade sizes can vary between the driver's and passenger's sides of the same vehicle.
Can I use a 21 wiper blade instead of a 22?
Yes, you can likely use a 21-inch wiper blade instead of a 22-inch one, but it's not recommended as a permanent solution because it will clear a smaller area of your windshield. The shorter blade will miss a half-inch strip of the windshield at the top and/or bottom, potentially compromising your visibility, and you should use the correct size if possible.
Potential outcomes of using a 21-inch blade
- Reduced visibility: You will lose a half-inch strip of cleared windshield at the edge, which could be noticeable in bad weather.
- Incomplete cleaning: The shorter blade may not be able to sweep the entire area needed, which can lead to streaks.
- Compromised performance: If your car has an automatic rain sensor, a shorter blade might not reach the area, potentially affecting your automatic wiper mode.
Recommendations
- Check your car's owner's manual: Your manual will have the exact recommended sizes for your vehicle. It's common for a car's driver and passenger sides to require different sizes, as shown in this Reddit thread.
- Stick to the correct size: For optimal performance and safety, it is always best to use the manufacturer's recommended sizes.
- Use it as a temporary fix: If you must use a 21-inch blade temporarily, do so with caution and replace it with the correct 22-inch size as soon as possible.
- Consider the other side: If your car uses a 22-inch for the driver's side, it likely uses a smaller size, such as a 20-inch, for the passenger's side. Replacing the driver's side with a 21-inch will not fix the passenger's side or the entire windshield.
How do I know what window wipers to buy?
There are three main types of window wipers: traditional frame wipers, beam wipers, and hybrid wipers. Frame wipers are the most common, beam wipers offer better performance in harsh weather, and hybrid wipers combine the strengths of both for optimal efficiency.
