What Size Wiper Blades for a 2016 Audi A5?

The 2016 Audi A5 typically uses a 24-inch wiper blade on the driver’s side and a 20-inch blade on the passenger side, with a 12-inch rear blade on Sportback models; however, exact sizes and fittings can vary slightly by body style and market, so owners should double‑check based on VIN or trim. This guide explains the correct sizes, variations between models, and how to choose and install replacements safely and effectively.

Standard Wiper Blade Sizes for the 2016 Audi A5

The Audi A5 line in 2016 was sold in several body styles—Coupé, Cabriolet, and, in some regions, Sportback—which share similar front wiper geometry but differ when it comes to whether a rear wiper is fitted. Most retail fitment guides and dealer parts catalogs list 24″/20″ front blades as the baseline for the 2016 A5.

Front Wiper Blade Sizes

For the main windshield, Audi standardized the wiper setup on the B8/B8.5-generation A5, which includes the 2016 model year. The driver’s side blade is longer to maximize sweep on the left side of the windshield, while the passenger side is shorter for clearance and to avoid hitting the A‑pillar and hood.

The following list details the most commonly specified front wiper sizes for the 2016 Audi A5 and how they map to body styles.

• Driver’s side (LHD markets): 24 inches (610 mm) – standard size for A5 Coupé, Cabriolet, and most Sportback models.
• Passenger side: 20 inches (508 mm) – paired with the 24-inch driver’s blade across the range.
• Right-hand-drive (RHD) markets: In most catalogues, sizes remain 24″/20″, but beam shape and curvature may differ slightly by part number.
• OEM style: Aerodynamic “beam” or “flat” blades with integrated spoiler and model-specific mounting for the factory arm.

Together, the 24″/20″ pairing offers near-full windshield coverage while preventing blade overlap or mechanical interference, which is why this combination is consistently recommended by manufacturers and major parts databases for the 2016 A5.

Rear Wiper Blade Sizes (Sportback Only)

Unlike the Coupé and Cabriolet, the A5 Sportback (where sold in 2016) includes a rear wiper due to its hatch-style rear glass. Rear wipers are smaller and use a different mounting style than the front.

The list below outlines the usual rear blade sizing for the 2016 Audi A5 Sportback where applicable.

• Rear wiper blade (Sportback): 12 inches (approximately 300 mm) in most fitment catalogs.
• Rear wiper presence: Only Sportback and other hatch/wagon variants; Coupé and Cabriolet do not have a rear wiper.
• Mounting type: Dedicated rear-arm connector, often model-specific and not interchangeable with front connectors.
• OEM vs aftermarket: Many aftermarket blades are “direct fit” but may differ slightly in styling from Audi’s original rear blade.

Because the rear blade is both shorter and differently mounted than the fronts, owners should avoid improvising with cut-down or generic front blades and instead select a rear-specific replacement for the Sportback.

Why Wiper Size Matters for the Audi A5

Correct wiper sizing is not just a detail—it affects visibility, noise, and even the risk of damaging the wiper mechanism. The A5’s curved windshield and aerodynamic design rely on properly matched beam blades to keep the glass clear at speed.

Safety and Visibility Considerations

Visibility is critical in a performance-oriented car like the A5, which is often driven at motorway speeds where rain and spray become quickly hazardous. Oversized or undersized wipers can leave blind spots or cause mechanical issues.

The points below outline how incorrect sizing can impact safety and performance of the wipers on a 2016 Audi A5.

• Blind spots: Using a shorter-than-spec blade reduces the wiped area, leaving arcs of untreated glass directly in the driver’s line of sight.
• Mechanical contact: Oversized blades, especially on the passenger side, can collide with each other, the A-pillar, or the upper windshield frame.
• Motor stress: Longer blades add drag, forcing the wiper motor and linkage to work harder, which can accelerate wear or cause stalling in heavy rain.
• Noise and judder: Incorrect length or curvature changes the contact pattern, often increasing chatter and wind noise at speed.
• Aerodynamic performance: The OEM 24″/20″ pairing is tuned to the A5’s windshield contour and airflow to reduce lifting at high speeds.

Maintaining the factory-specified sizes preserves the wiper system’s designed performance envelope, ensuring consistent clearing and minimizing unwanted wear and noise in everyday driving.

Compatibility with Different Blade Types

Modern A5 models, including the 2016, are factory-fitted with “beam” style wiper blades, which lack the traditional metal frame and instead use a one-piece, curved structure. While conventional, hybrid, and beam designs all exist in the aftermarket, not all are equally suited to this vehicle.

The following list compares the main replacement options and why beam blades are generally preferred on the 2016 A5.

• Beam (flat) blades: Match Audi’s OEM design; best fit to the curved windshield, good contact pressure, and reduced lift at higher speeds.
• Hybrid blades: Combine a low-profile frame with a covered design; can fit and perform well but may not match OEM appearance exactly.
• Conventional framed blades: Typically not recommended; they may fit via universal adapters but often look out of place and perform worse at speed.
• Winter blades: Some owners in snow-prone regions opt for winter-specific beam or hybrid designs with rubber-encased structures to prevent ice buildup.

While different blade constructions can technically be installed, choosing a quality beam-style blade in the correct 24″/20″ lengths best preserves the original wiping pattern, aesthetics, and aerodynamic characteristics Audi intended.

How to Confirm the Correct Wiper Sizes for Your Specific A5

Although 24″/20″ (front) and 12″ (rear Sportback) are widely cited, subtle differences can occur due to regional variants, optional packages, or replacement arms fitted by previous owners. Verifying fitment avoids returning parts—or worse, damaging the windshield or hood.

Checking OEM Documentation and Labels

Audi provides multiple reference points for service items, but many owners overlook them when buying wiper blades. Consulting official channels is the most reliable way to confirm exact fitment for a given vehicle.

The next list describes practical ways to verify wiper sizes using official or semi-official sources before you purchase new blades.

• Owner’s manual: Look under “Wiper blades” or “Windscreen wipers”; some manuals list exact sizes, others provide only part numbers.
• Dealer parts counter: Provide your VIN; the dealer can pull the correct OEM part numbers and cross-reference lengths.
• Online OEM catalogs: Audi’s electronic parts catalog (EPC) or reputable OEM parts sites can show part numbers for driver, passenger, and rear positions.
• Under-hood stickers: In some markets, service stickers may reference wiper blade part numbers, though this is less common than oil or filter data.

These sources, especially VIN-based lookups, help eliminate doubt and confirm that your A5—regardless of trim or past repairs—uses the standard 24″/20″ front setup and, if Sportback, a 12″ rear blade.

Using Aftermarket Fitment Tools

Most major wiper makers maintain online databases to match specific blade models to vehicles by year, make, and model, including the 2016 Audi A5 series. While these tools are convenient, they are not infallible and should be cross-checked when possible.

The following list outlines how to use aftermarket tools intelligently when choosing wipers for your 2016 A5.

• Brand configurators: Websites from Bosch, Valeo, Trico, Michelin, and similar brands allow you to select “2016 Audi A5” and see recommended part numbers and sizes.
• Retailer lookups: Parts chains and online retailers (e.g., large auto parts sites) often have similar “select your vehicle” tools tied to inventory.
• Confirm body style: Ensure the tool differentiates between Coupé, Cabriolet, and Sportback; rear wiper suggestions depend on this.
• Cross-check part numbers: Compare suggested blades against at least one other brand’s configurator or OEM references for consistency.

Using these tools alongside the owner’s manual or VIN-based information greatly reduces the risk of buying incompatible blades, and typically confirms the 24″/20″ pairing for the 2016 A5’s front windshield.

Choosing the Right Replacement Blades

Beyond overall length, owners need to select the right connection type and quality level. The 2016 A5 uses a vehicle-specific arm connector, so many parts catalogues list “direct-fit” or “OE-style” kits that come pre-configured for Audi’s mounting design.

Connector Types and Fitment

Modern blades often ship with multiple adapters to cover a wide range of vehicles. The A5’s arms typically use a specific “side pin”/“push-button” style connection integrated into the beam blade, which differs from the older “hook” style common on older cars.

The following list summarizes connector considerations when purchasing wipers for a 2016 Audi A5.

• OE-specific kits: Look for blades marketed as “direct fit” or “vehicle specific” for Audi A5; they typically require no adapter swapping.
• Multi-adapter packs: If you buy universal blades, make sure the included adapters explicitly list compatible Audi or VW arm types.
• Secure locking: After installation, gently tug the blade near the connector to ensure it’s fully locked and cannot slide off the arm.
• Arm condition: Inspect the wiper arm for bending, corrosion, or damage; a damaged arm can compromise even a correctly sized, properly fitted blade.

Matching both the length and connector style ensures the blades sit correctly on the A5’s windshield, maintain correct pressure along their length, and stay securely attached under all weather conditions.

Quality, Price, and Service Life

While wiper blades are relatively inexpensive parts, the difference between budget and premium products is noticeable in streaking, noise, and lifespan—particularly on a curved, aerodynamic windshield like that of the A5.

The list below highlights factors to weigh when deciding how much to invest in new wipers for your 2016 Audi A5.

• Rubber compound: Premium blades use synthetic or silicone-enhanced rubber that resists UV and ozone damage, lasting longer than basic natural rubber.
• Coatings: Some blades feature graphite or silicone coatings to reduce friction and noise, leading to smoother, quieter sweeps.
• Weather conditions: In hot, sunny climates, UV resistance is critical; in cold climates, flexibility at low temperatures matters more.
• Replacement interval: Many manufacturers suggest replacing blades every 6–12 months; premium blades may last longer but should still be inspected regularly.

Selecting quality 24″/20″ beam blades (and 12″ for the Sportback rear) tailored to your climate will help ensure consistently clear vision, fewer streaks, and less frequent replacements over the life of the vehicle.

Basic Installation Tips for the 2016 Audi A5

Swapping wiper blades on the A5 is generally straightforward, but the low hood line and tight arm angles mean it’s worth following a few best practices to avoid chipped glass or scratched paint.

Steps and Precautions

While specific instructions can vary slightly by blade brand, most follow a similar process. Careful handling of the bare wiper arm is crucial; if it snaps back against the windshield, it can crack the glass.

The next list outlines a typical, cautious approach to installing new wipers on a 2016 Audi A5.

• Lift the wiper arms carefully: Raise each arm away from the windshield until it holds itself in an upright or semi-upright position.
• Protect the glass: Place a folded towel on the windshield under the arm as a safeguard in case the arm springs back.
• Release the old blade: Depress the small tab or button at the connector and slide the old blade off the arm.
• Attach the new blade: Align the new blade’s connector with the arm, slide or click it into place until you hear or feel it lock.
• Test before driving: After both front blades are installed, spray washer fluid and run the wipers to verify correct movement, no contact or noise beyond normal operation.

Taking a few extra seconds to protect the windshield and double-check the locking mechanism can prevent costly damage and ensure that your properly sized blades perform as intended from the first use.

Summary

For a 2016 Audi A5, the widely accepted and manufacturer-aligned wiper blade sizes are 24 inches for the driver’s side and 20 inches for the passenger side at the front, with a 12-inch rear blade on Sportback variants. These dimensions, paired with the correct beam-style connectors, are designed to match the car’s curved windshield and aerodynamic profile, providing optimal visibility and minimizing noise and wear. Owners should confirm fitment via the owner’s manual, VIN-based dealer lookup, or reputable parts databases—especially to distinguish between Coupé, Cabriolet, and Sportback trims—then choose quality beam blades and install them carefully to protect both the glass and the wiper mechanism.

What wiper blades does Audi use?

Audi uses different wiper blade sizes and types depending on the specific model and year, so there is no single answer. For example, a 2019–2025 Audi sedan typically uses a 24-inch driver-side blade and a 20-inch passenger-side blade, while an Audi Q7 from 2023 uses 26-inch to 28-inch driver-side blades and a 15-inch rear blade. To find the correct size, it’s best to check your car’s owner’s manual or use an online vehicle lookup tool with your car’s specific details. 
Example wiper blade sizes for common Audi models

• Audi Sedan (2019–2025): 24-inch (driver) and 20-inch (passenger) 
• Audi A4 (2020): 24-inch (driver) and 20-inch (passenger) 
• Audi Q7 (2023): 26–28-inch (driver) and 15-inch (rear) 

Tips for finding the right wiper blades

• Use your owner’s manual: The manual will have the precise measurements for your vehicle’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
• Use an online lookup tool: Websites like Audi Great Neck, AutoZone.com, or Advance Auto Parts have tools where you can enter your car’s make, model, and year to find compatible parts. 
• Check the part number: You can find the OEM part number for your car’s wipers on an old blade or through an OEM parts supplier, such as Audi OEM Parts Online. 
• Consider aftermarket options: Many reputable brands like Bosch, Rain-X, and others make high-quality wiper blades that are compatible with Audi vehicles, like those found on AutoZone.com or Advance Auto Parts. 

Do Audis need special wiper blades?

Modern Audis might favor beam blades for their arc matching the windshield’s curvature, whereas older models may still employ conventional blades. In any case, your choice should bolster the clear vision and premium feel synonymous with owning an Audi.

What size windshield wipers for Audi A5?

24″ 20″

Model Years	Driver	Passenger
2018–2025	24″	20″

What are the dimensions of the Audi A5 2016?

The height, measured from the ground to the top of the car, ranges from 1372 mm to 1391 mm depending on the variant. The width is 1854 mm across all variants. The length ranges from 4626 mm to 4712 mm.