Most of us don't give much thought to the size of our windshield wipers. As long as they are doing their job, everything is fine. But when the time comes for some new blades, will you know what size windshield wipers you will need?

What Size Windshield Wipers Do I Need?

Many drivers don’t give much thought to windshield wipers. As long as they work and do their job, everything is fine and dandy. If you get caught in a rainstorm, a snowstorm, get splashed with mud, slush, or run into a swarm of insects, you flip the switch and watch the magic happen. The obstructions are swiftly removed and your vision is clear as day. Sometimes it is just the wipers, and sometimes the wipers get an assist from the installed washer systems. But once these devices stop working. Once they start leaving streaks across the windshield and you find yourself arching your neck or slouching your back for the optimal vision angle, your windshield wipers suddenly become top of mind.

Frustrated with your situation, it is time to hit the market for new windshield wipers, but exactly what do you need. What size? Will the new wipers have the same advanced features and options that are easy to use, extremely effective, and help maintain clear vision while driving? They should, as long as you choose the correct wiper blades.

How to choose the correct wiper blades?

Windshield wiper blades are vehicle specific. On some vehicles, both wiper blades are the same size. On other vehicles, the two wiper blades are different sizes. The optimal wiper blade size is determined by the manufacturer and selected for proper fit to clear as much of the windshield as possible. If you replace your wiper blades with a larger sized blade hoping to clear more area on the windshield, you will find that one or both will hang off the side or hit the top of the windshield trim when upright. Additionally, if both windshield wipers are too long, they may hit each other causing damage to the wiper blades, arms, and even the wiper motor. This will cause excessive wear on the wiper blades leading to spots that do not get cleared when the wiper blade isn’t flush with the windshield.

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. This will ensure proper fit and prevent unwanted damage. If you cannot locate your owner’s manual, you can easily find out the wiper blade size by using a blade size finder.

When to replace windshield wipers?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is time to change your wiper blades.

Streaking noise while the windshield wipers are in motion and wiping moisture off of the windshield
Improper wiping of the glass
The wiper blades leave a film of material while wiping
When turned on, the wiper blades stick to the glass

With use, the rubber material of the wiper blade deteriorates and wears away. And dependent on how often the wiper blades are used will also determine the frequency of replacement.

Proper Wiper Blades = Safe Driving

Since a majority of accidents happen due to poor visibility, don’t delay replacing your windshield wipers. Find the right size and have them replaced. Windshield wipers are inexpensive and some auto parts stores will install them for you. And don’t forget, many larger vehicles have rear windows with a wiper blade as well. Maintaining your wipers is an easy and affordable way to ensure the safety of you and your family while traveling in your vehicle.

After every windshield replacement by Auto Glass Express, we test the wipers to ensure proper position and functionality. This is just one step in our 11 Point Auto Glass Repair Checklist that ensures quality work and customer satisfaction. For all your windshield replacement and repair needs, contact Auto Glass Express.