What length are my wiper blades?
Your wiper blade length isn’t universal; it depends on the vehicle. The driver’s-side blade is often longer than the passenger, and sizes range widely by model. To know for sure, check your owner’s manual or the label on the driver’s door jamb, or measure the blade itself. For many cars, driver blades run roughly 22–26 inches and passenger blades roughly 16–20 inches.
How to determine the correct size for your vehicle
Use these steps to identify the right size for your car before buying replacements.
- Check the owner's manual for blade length specifications.
- Look for a label or sticker on the driver's door jamb, inside the glove box, or near the wiper mechanism that lists blade sizes.
- Use your vehicle’s make, model, and year in an online blade size finder or retailer catalog.
- Measure the existing blades if you still have them: measure from tip to tip when laid flat.
With the right size confirmed, you can shop with confidence, knowing you’ll have a precise fit for optimal visibility. Note that some vehicles have two front blades of different lengths and a separate rear blade with its own size; be sure to check all wiper positions on your car.
Two quick ways to verify blade length if specs aren’t visible
Two practical methods can help you confirm size when documentation is scarce.
- Remove the blade from the arm according to your manual and measure the length of the blade portion, not the metal frame.
- Measure the blade while installed by laying a flexible tape along the blade edge from tip to tip, being careful not to damage the blade.
These checks ensure you order the correct size and avoid return hassles at checkout.
Blade sizes by vehicle category (typical ranges)
Sizes vary by model and generation, but these ranges cover common vehicles.
- Compact cars: Driver 20–22 inches; Passenger 16–20 inches
- Midsize sedans: Driver 24–26 inches; Passenger 18–20 inches
- SUVs and crossovers: Driver 26–28 inches; Passenger 20–22 inches
- Full-size trucks and larger SUVs: Driver 28–30 inches; Passenger 20–22 inches
Note that some models use equal-length blades on both sides, while others use different lengths per side. Always verify for your exact year and trim.
Choosing the right blade type and installation tips
Beyond length, blade design matters. Most drivers choose traditional frame blades or modern beam blades, which can affect performance in heavy rain or winter conditions. When replacing, ensure you pick the correct connector type (hook, pin, or bayonet) and follow installation instructions in the manual or on the packaging.
What to do if you’re unsure or can’t find the size
If you can’t locate a size, consult the retailer’s tool by entering your car’s year, make, and model, ask a service advisor, or bring the old blade to a store for a direct match.
Getting the right length ensures optimal visibility and reduces streaking, so don’t skip the verification step even if you’re in a hurry.
Summary
Wiper blade length is vehicle-specific, not universal. Start with the owner’s manual or door jamb label, confirm with an online finder, or measure the blade. Typical ranges place driver blades around 22–26 inches on many cars and passenger blades around 16–20 inches, with variations by SUV and truck. When replacing, consider blade design, connector type, and installation instructions to ensure a proper fit and clear visibility in all weather.
How do I know how long my windshield wipers are?
To check the size of your blades:
- Lift the blades away from the windshield and straighten them (if they're curved).
- Measure from one end to the other, tip to tip (not just the rubber portion).
- Round the measurement to the nearest inch.
How to find the length of wiper blades?
If your existing blades are still in good condition, you can measure them to find the correct size replacement blades. To do this, simply measure the length of the rubber blade, not the metal frame. Make sure to measure both the driver's side and the passenger's side. They may be different sizes.
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.
