What Size Wiper Blades for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe typically uses a 26-inch wiper blade on the driver’s side and a 16-inch wiper blade on the passenger’s side for most U.S. trims, but sizes can vary slightly by market, trim, and rear wiper configuration, so confirming with the owner’s manual or a fitment tool is essential.

Understanding Wiper Blade Sizes for the 2023 Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe received only incremental updates for the 2023 model year, and its wiper setup remains similar to late fourth‑generation models. However, small variations—especially between markets (U.S., Canada, Europe) and between standard and hybrid/plug‑in hybrid trims—mean drivers should treat any size listing as a guide, then verify against the vehicle’s documentation or an online parts lookup tool.

Typical Wiper Blade Sizes by Position

Owners most often want a quick reference for the size of each wiper position—driver, passenger, and rear—so the following breakdown summarizes the most commonly specified dimensions for the 2023 Santa Fe sold in North America.

• Driver’s side: 26 inches
• Passenger’s side: 16 inches
• Rear wiper: 12–13 inches (varies by market and trim; 12″ is common on many North American models)

These dimensions match what most major wiper manufacturers list for the 2023 Santa Fe in North American fitment guides, but the small spread in rear wiper size underscores why a final check—either on the old blade, in the manual, or with a parts database—is still recommended.

Why Blade Size Can Vary

While it might seem that one model year should always use identical wiper blades, there are several reasons why your specific 2023 Santa Fe might differ slightly from a general recommendation.

Trim Levels and Powertrains

The 2023 Santa Fe is sold in a variety of trims—such as SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, Calligraphy—and as hybrid and plug‑in hybrid variants. In most cases, the front blade sizes are unified across trims, but regional spec changes or minor running production changes can lead to small differences, particularly for the rear wiper arm and blade.

Regional Differences

Santa Fe models built for Europe, Asia, or other regions can have different rear hatch designs, glass curvature, or wiper arm types. These factors may affect the recommended rear blade length or even the mounting style. As a result, a “universal” Santa Fe size table may not perfectly match non‑U.S. vehicles.

Aftermarket Versus OEM Listing

Original Hyundai documentation may list one exact size, while aftermarket wiper makers sometimes round to the nearest commonly available length or recommend a slightly longer blade to maximize swept area. This can be acceptable if it does not cause the blade to hit trim, overlap the windshield edge, or bind at full sweep.

How to Confirm the Correct Wiper Size

Even if you have a likely size for your 2023 Santa Fe, a brief verification step helps avoid buying blades that don’t fit properly or perform poorly.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look in the maintenance or specifications section for wiper blade sizes by position.
2. Measure your existing blades: Remove or hold a tape measure against the current blades from end to end for both front and rear positions.
3. Use an online fitment tool: Reputable brands (Bosch, Rain‑X, Michelin, Trico, etc.) and major retailers offer vehicle lookup tools; enter “2023 Hyundai Santa Fe” plus your region.
4. Confirm mounting style: Note whether your wipers use hook, pinch‑tab, or another connector type so the new blades will attach correctly.
5. Ask a dealer or parts counter: A Hyundai dealer or trusted parts store can confirm the OEM‑specified lengths using your VIN.

By combining at least two of these checks—such as your manual plus a parts lookup—you significantly reduce the chance of buying an incorrect length or incompatible mounting style.

Choosing the Right Type of Blade for a 2023 Santa Fe

Size is only part of the equation; opting for a suitable blade design can improve visibility and durability, especially given the varying climates in which the Santa Fe is commonly used.

• Beam (frameless) blades: Offer better performance in snow and heavy rain, and are often quieter; many modern SUVs benefit from these.
• Hybrid blades: Combine a low‑profile design with a reinforced structure, providing good all‑weather performance.
• Conventional frame blades: Usually cheaper and adequate in mild climates, but more prone to ice buildup in winter conditions.
• Silicone rubber inserts: Last longer and can improve water beading, though they often cost more than standard rubber blades.

Matching the blade type to your local weather and driving environment ensures that the correct size wiper also delivers consistent, streak‑free performance and longer service life.

Maintenance Tips After Installing New Blades

Proper care once the new blades are installed can extend their lifespan and maintain clear visibility, which is critical for a family‑oriented SUV like the Santa Fe.

• Clean the windshield regularly: Dirt and road film accelerate rubber wear and cause streaks.
• Wipe blade edges occasionally: A damp cloth can remove grime and fine debris from the rubber surface.
• Avoid running wipers on a dry windshield: Dry operation increases friction, noise, and wear.
• Lift blades in heavy snow or ice: In severe winter weather, lifting the blades can prevent them from freezing to the glass.
• Replace every 6–12 months: Depending on climate and usage, swap blades when you notice streaking, skipping, or chattering.

These basic habits help ensure that once you’ve selected the correct size and style for your 2023 Santa Fe, you get the full benefit in both safety and comfort.

Summary

For most 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe models in North America, the standard wiper blade setup is a 26-inch driver’s side blade and a 16-inch passenger’s side blade, with a rear blade typically around 12 inches, though slight variations exist by market and trim. Because of these differences—and occasional discrepancies between OEM and aftermarket listings—drivers should confirm the exact sizes using the owner’s manual, a trusted parts database, or direct measurement before purchasing. Selecting an appropriate blade type and maintaining it properly will then help keep the Santa Fe’s windshield clear and visibility high in all weather conditions.