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What Size Wiper Blade for a Hyundai Tucson?

Most modern Hyundai Tucson models use a 26-inch wiper blade on the driver’s side and a 16- to 17-inch blade on the passenger’s side, but the exact size depends on the model year and sometimes the market. Choosing the correct size is essential for safe visibility, preventing wiper damage, and ensuring proper fit on the windshield.

Why Wiper Blade Size Matters for the Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson’s windshield shape has evolved across generations, and Hyundai specifies different wiper lengths to maximize visibility without causing the blades to clash or miss critical areas. Using blades that are too long can make them hit each other or the window frame, while blades that are too short can leave large unwiped zones in the driver’s field of view.

Typical Wiper Blade Sizes by Hyundai Tucson Generation

While owners should always confirm using their manual or a fitment guide, most Tucsons fall into predictable size patterns by generation. The following overview summarizes common factory-equivalent sizes for left-hand-drive markets such as the US, Canada, and most of Europe.

First Generation (2005–2009)

The original Hyundai Tucson featured a more upright windshield, with wiper arms sized for a smaller glass area than newer crossovers.

The sizes below reflect typical fitment for first-generation Tucson models sold in North America and similar markets.

  • Driver’s side: 24-inch blade
  • Passenger’s side: 16-inch blade
  • Rear wiper (if equipped): 12-inch blade

These sizes generally align with what major aftermarket brands list, but variations in trim or regional specs mean a quick check with a parts catalog or your existing blades is still a smart step.

Second Generation ix35 / Tucson (2010–2015)

The second-generation Tucson (branded ix35 in some markets) adopted a more swept-back windshield, which slightly changed wiper dimensions.

For this generation, most mainstream fitment catalogs list the following blade sizes as standard:

  • Driver’s side: 26-inch blade
  • Passenger’s side: 16-inch blade
  • Rear wiper: 12- or 13-inch blade (varies by market and brand)

Even when a range is given for the rear blade, choosing the size specified in your owner’s manual ensures the wiper sweeps the intended area without striking the tailgate trim.

Third Generation (2016–2020)

The third-generation Tucson continued the trend toward larger, more sloped windshields, and many models adopted longer blades for wider coverage.

In North American and European catalogs, the most common size combination for this generation is:

  • Driver’s side: 26-inch blade
  • Passenger’s side: 16-inch blade
  • Rear wiper: 12-inch blade

Although these dimensions are widely used across trims, differences in rear spoilers or regional rear wiper designs make it worthwhile to confirm the rear size before ordering.

Fourth Generation (2022–Present, including 2025)

The latest Hyundai Tucson, including the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 model years, features a broad, angular windshield and low-profile front wipers that are often sold as beam or hybrid blades.

For most current-generation Tucson models in left-hand-drive markets, parts databases and dealer listings typically show these sizes:

  • Driver’s side: 26-inch blade
  • Passenger’s side: 17-inch blade (some listings still specify 16-inch; follow the manual or OE size)
  • Rear wiper: 12- or 13-inch blade, often a model-specific rear assembly

The slight difference between 16- and 17-inch passenger-side listings reflects updates and regional variations; matching the exact size printed on your current original blade or in the owner’s manual is the most reliable approach.

How to Confirm the Correct Wiper Size for Your Tucson

Because wiper specs can vary by year, trim, and region, relying solely on generic charts can lead to buying the wrong size. Fortunately, there are several quick methods to verify what your Hyundai Tucson needs.

Check the Owner’s Manual and Existing Blades

The owner’s manual remains the most authoritative source of information on wiper blade sizes for any Tucson model year.

When verifying wiper size directly from your vehicle, consider the following steps:

  1. Locate the “Maintenance” or “Specifications” section in the owner’s manual.
  2. Find the table listing “Windshield wiper blades” or “Wiper blade lengths.”
  3. Check both front and rear blade lengths, as they may be listed separately.
  4. Inspect your existing blades for size markings stamped or printed on the rubber or metal/plastic frame.
  5. Compare the printed size on your current blades with the manual and choose the matching replacement.

By cross-checking the manual against the marking on your current blades, you reduce the risk of buying a size that technically fits the arm but does not match Hyundai’s original coverage design.

Use Online Fitment Tools and Parts Catalogs

Most major wiper and auto parts brands provide online tools that match blade sizes to specific vehicles, including the Hyundai Tucson.

To make the best use of these online tools, follow these basic guidelines:

  1. Go to the website of a reputable wiper manufacturer or large auto parts retailer.
  2. Enter your vehicle’s year, make, model, and (if requested) body style or trim.
  3. Check the listed driver, passenger, and rear blade sizes and note any footnotes about regional differences.
  4. Confirm whether the site differentiates between conventional, beam, and hybrid blades for your Tucson.
  5. Compare the recommended sizes with your manual or existing blades before purchasing.

Online fitment guides are updated regularly, but cross-referencing with your car’s documentation guards against rare catalog errors or regional discrepancies.

Types of Wiper Blades Suitable for the Hyundai Tucson

Beyond size, Tucson owners can choose among several blade designs, each with different performance and durability characteristics.

Conventional, Beam, and Hybrid Blades

The Tucson from recent generations often comes with low-profile, aerodynamic blades from the factory, but replacements need not be identical as long as the size and connector match.

These are the main blade types Tucson drivers will encounter:

  • Conventional frame blades: Metal frame with multiple pressure points; inexpensive and widely available, but more prone to ice buildup.
  • Beam blades: One-piece, curved design that distributes pressure evenly; excellent for winter and highway use, often quieter and more aerodynamic.
  • Hybrid blades: Combine a streamlined outer shell with a multi-point frame inside; designed to offer the benefits of both conventional and beam blades.

Any of these types can be appropriate for a Hyundai Tucson if the length and mounting system are correct, though many owners favor beam or hybrid blades for their improved performance in rain and snow.

How Often to Replace Wiper Blades on a Tucson

Even correctly sized blades lose effectiveness over time as UV exposure, heat, and grit degrade the rubber. Regular replacement is a simple safety investment.

Signs Your Wipers Need Replacing

Hyundai does not specify a strict change interval, but many service advisors recommend every 6–12 months depending on climate and usage.

To know when it is time to install new blades on your Tucson, watch for these symptoms:

  1. Streaks or smears left on the windshield, even after cleaning the glass.
  2. Chattering, skipping, or noisy operation as the blades move.
  3. Visible cracks, splits, or rough edges on the rubber element.
  4. Uneven wiping where parts of the sweep remain wet.
  5. Areas of the windshield that the blade no longer contacts firmly.

If any of these issues persist after cleaning both the blades and the glass, replacing the wipers with the correct-sized blades is usually the fastest way to restore clear visibility.

Key Takeaways for Hyundai Tucson Owners

Understanding wiper blade sizing for the Hyundai Tucson helps prevent guesswork and avoids returns at the parts counter. While individual model years vary slightly, certain patterns hold true.

The following points summarize the most important sizing facts for Tucson drivers:

  • Most recent Tucsons (roughly 2010–present) use a 26-inch driver’s blade.
  • Passenger blades are typically 16 or 17 inches, depending on the generation and region.
  • Rear wiper blades are usually in the 12–13 inch range and may require a model-specific assembly.
  • The owner’s manual and the existing factory blade markings are the most reliable sources for exact size.
  • Beam or hybrid blades in the correct size often provide better all-weather performance than basic frame designs.

By confirming your Tucson’s model year and checking both the manual and current blades, you can confidently purchase the right-size wipers and maintain clear, safe visibility in all conditions.

Summary

Most Hyundai Tucson models use a 26-inch wiper on the driver’s side and a 16- or 17-inch blade on the passenger’s side, with a 12- to 13-inch rear blade depending on year and region. Exact sizes vary by generation, so owners should verify lengths in the vehicle’s manual or on the existing blades and then choose a quality conventional, beam, or hybrid replacement that matches those specifications. Regularly replacing worn wipers with correctly sized blades is a straightforward way to preserve visibility and safety in everyday driving.

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