What Size Wiper Blades for a Hyundai Tucson?

Most recent Hyundai Tucson models (2016–2025) use a 26-inch wiper blade on the driver’s side and a 16-inch blade on the passenger side, but exact sizes vary by model year and sometimes by market, so owners should always confirm with the manual, the windshield wiper size chart in-store, or a reputable parts database before purchasing.

Why Wiper Blade Size Matters for a Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV with a relatively wide windshield, and using the correct wiper blade sizes is crucial for visibility and safety. Blades that are too long can hit the A-pillars or overlap and clash; blades that are too short leave large uncleared areas, especially in front of the driver. While most Tucsons follow a clear size pattern, there are year-by-year differences, and rear wiper sizes can vary as well.

Typical Wiper Blade Sizes by Generation

Wiper sizes for the Hyundai Tucson depend on model year and sometimes trim or region, but there are common patterns within each generation. The following sections outline the most typical configurations you’ll encounter.

Fourth Generation (NX4, 2022–2025, including Hybrid & Plug‑in Hybrid)

For the current fourth-generation Tucson (often sold as 2022 onward in many markets), Hyundai standardized front wiper sizing for most trims and powertrains. This generation’s windshield shape supports a long driver’s blade for maximum coverage.

The following list shows the most commonly specified blade sizes for 2022–2025 Hyundai Tucson models in North America and similar markets:

• Driver’s side: 26 inches
• Passenger side: 16 inches
• Rear wiper: 12–13 inches (most commonly 12″; check your manual or existing blade)

These sizes are used on gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid Tucsons in this generation in many regions, but rear wiper size can differ slightly by market and body style (for example, standard vs. N Line styling). Confirm locally to avoid minor fit issues.

Third Generation (TL, 2016–2021)

The third-generation Tucson (in many countries sold from the 2015 or 2016 model year onward) established the now-familiar 26/16 combination on the front windshield. This setup balances wide coverage for the driver with a slightly shorter passenger blade to avoid interference.

For most 2016–2021 Hyundai Tucson models, the usual blade sizes are:

• Driver’s side: 26 inches
• Passenger side: 16 inches
• Rear wiper: 12 inches (occasionally 11–13 inches in some markets)

In this generation, part numbers and mounting systems may differ between trims or regions, but the length pattern is broadly consistent. If you’re replacing only the rubber or a specific brand’s “vehicle-specific” blade, ensure compatibility with the arm connector as well as length.

Second Generation (LM, approx. 2010–2015)

The second-generation Tucson (sometimes badged as ix35 in certain markets) uses shorter blades on both sides than later models. This reflects a slightly different windshield design and wiper arc.

Typical sizes for many 2010–2015 Tucson/ix35 models are:

• Driver’s side: 24 inches
• Passenger side: 18 inches
• Rear wiper: 12 inches (common, but check on older units where arms may have been replaced)

Because this generation overlaps different nameplates (Tucson vs. ix35) and markets, owners should be especially careful to cross-check size and connector type using the VIN or an online fit guide from a major wiper manufacturer.

First Generation (JM, approx. 2005–2009)

First-generation Tucsons have smaller, more traditional wiper setups. Over the years, some owners have retrofitted different arms or universal blades, so measuring your current blades is particularly important on older vehicles.

Commonly listed sizes for early Hyundai Tucson models (mid-2000s) are approximately:

• Driver’s side: 22–24 inches (24″ is most commonly stocked as replacement)
• Passenger side: 16–18 inches (varies slightly by market)
• Rear wiper: 10–12 inches, often 11″

Because of age and potential part substitutions, owners of first-generation Tucsons are best served by measuring existing blades or using a parts catalog keyed to the vehicle’s exact model year, trim, and region.

How to Confirm the Correct Wiper Size for Your Tucson

Even with typical size charts, the safest way to avoid buying the wrong wiper blades is to double-check against authoritative sources and your actual car. Minor deviations between regions, facelifts, and aftermarket arms can affect what will fit properly.

Check These Sources Before You Buy

Several quick checks can verify the correct wiper blade sizes and connector types for your Hyundai Tucson, minimizing the risk of returns or poor fit.

• Owner’s manual: Usually lists the wiper blade lengths (front and rear) in the “Maintenance” or “Specifications” section.
• Existing blades: Many blades have the length stamped or printed on them; you can also measure with a tape measure.
• Parts retailer database: Major auto parts chains and online retailers provide vehicle-specific fitment lookups using year, make, model, and sometimes engine or trim.
• Wiper manufacturer websites: Brands like Bosch, Valeo, Michelin, Rain-X, and others often maintain up-to-date compatibility charts by VIN or model year.
• Dealer or trusted mechanic: A Hyundai dealer can confirm the factory specification and any superseded part numbers tied to your VIN.

Using at least two of these sources—such as your manual plus an online parts database—greatly reduces the chance of buying blades that don’t fit or perform correctly.

Choosing the Right Type of Wiper Blade

Beyond size, Tucson owners face several options in terms of wiper blade design and materials, each with different strengths depending on climate and budget.

Main Blade Types Available

Different blade constructions can improve performance in heavy rain, snow, or hot climates, even when the length remains the same.

1. Conventional frame blades: Classic metal frame with multiple pressure points. Affordable and widely available; can ice up in winter and may lift at highway speeds on larger windshields.
2. Beam (flat) blades: One-piece curved design, typically with a spoiler. Better contact across the windshield, less prone to ice buildup, and common as OEM-style replacements on newer Tucsons.
3. Hybrid blades: Combine a covered frame with a sleeker profile. Offer improved aerodynamics and winter performance compared with basic frame blades.
4. All-weather or winter blades: Specifically designed rubber compounds and covers to resist freezing and remain flexible in very low temperatures.

For most recent Tucsons, beam or hybrid blades are a good match to the factory design, especially if you frequently drive at highway speeds or in variable weather conditions.

When and How Often to Replace Wiper Blades

Correct size is only part of the equation; worn blades of the right length still compromise safety. Tucson owners should pay attention to performance, not just time intervals.

Replacement Intervals and Warning Signs

Hyundai and most wiper manufacturers recommend replacing blades regularly, but real-world factors like sun exposure and road grime can shorten their life.

• Typical interval: Every 6–12 months for front blades, every 12–18 months for the rear, depending on climate and use.
• Streaking or smearing: Indicates hardened or damaged rubber; can significantly reduce visibility at night.
• Skipping or chattering: Often due to deformed blade edges or buildup on the windshield or blade.
• Cracks, splits, or missing chunks: Visible rubber damage means immediate replacement is advisable.
• Uneven wiping pattern: Leaves unwiped arcs or patches, often caused by a bent frame or worn-out beam structure.

Replacing blades as soon as these symptoms appear ensures your Tucson’s large windshield stays clear, especially in heavy rain or snow when you need visibility most.

Summary

For most modern Hyundai Tucson models from 2016 through 2025, the standard front wiper sizes are 26 inches for the driver’s side and 16 inches for the passenger side, with a rear blade typically around 12 inches. Earlier generations use slightly shorter and more varied lengths. Because exceptions exist by model year, region, and previous modifications, owners should always confirm size via the owner’s manual, measurement of existing blades, or an up-to-date parts database. Choosing the correct length and a suitable blade type—and replacing them regularly when performance declines—helps ensure clear visibility and safer driving in all conditions.