What Size Wiper Blades for the BMW 3 Series?

Most modern BMW 3 Series models use a 24-inch driver-side and 19-inch passenger-side wiper blade, but exact sizes vary by generation, body style, and whether the car is left- or right-hand drive; checking your specific model year and region is essential before buying.

Why Wiper Blade Size Matters on the BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series, spanning from the classic E30 to the latest G20/G21 generation, has evolved significantly in design and windshield curvature. As a result, wiper blade sizes are not universal across all years. Using the wrong size can reduce visibility, over-stress the wiper motor, or cause the blade to skip or chatter, especially at motorway speeds. For owners who drive frequently in rain or snow, fitting the correct, model-specific size is critical for safety and comfort.

Typical Wiper Blade Sizes by Generation (Left-Hand-Drive Models)

The following table-style breakdown summarizes commonly used wiper blade sizes by generation for left-hand-drive (LHD) BMW 3 Series sedans and wagons/touring models. Coupés, convertibles, and some regional variants may differ slightly, so this should be treated as a guide rather than an absolute rule.

E90 / E91 / E92 / E93 (2005–2013)

The fifth-generation 3 Series introduced a more aerodynamic windshield and, in most markets, switch-style flat wiper blades. Sizes are relatively consistent across sedans, wagons, coupés, and convertibles, but it is still wise to confirm fitment by VIN or online catalog.

Below is a list summarizing typical sizes for the E9x range.

• Driver side: 24″ (600 mm)
• Passenger side: 19″ (475–480 mm depending on brand)
• Rear wiper (E91 Touring only): 12″–13″ (300–330 mm), often sold as a model-specific rear blade

These dimensions align with most OEM and premium aftermarket catalog listings; however, rear blades are often sold as a dedicated “E91 Touring rear” part rather than by length alone.

F30 / F31 / F34 3 Series (2012–2019)

The F30 generation brought a sharper roofline and slight changes in the sweep pattern, but BMW largely retained the widely used 24″/19″ combination on left-hand-drive cars. Some xDrive and Gran Turismo (F34) variants may have minor catalog differences, yet the practical lengths remain similar.

The following list outlines the typical F30-family wiper blade sizes.

• Driver side: 24″ (600 mm)
• Passenger side: 19″ (475–480 mm)
• Rear wiper (F31 Touring): approx. 12″–13″ (300–330 mm), Touring-specific design

For F30 and F31 owners, most reputable parts sites and BMW dealers will default to these measurements when you enter your vehicle details, particularly for cars sold in Europe and North America.

G20 / G21 3 Series (2019–present)

The current G20 (sedan) and G21 (Touring) generation continues BMW’s preference for asymmetric wiper lengths. The blades are typically supplied as an aero-style “set” tailored to the arm fittings and windshield curvature, but the underlying lengths are in line with previous generations.

The list below shows the commonly specified sizes for the G20/G21 era.

• Driver side: 24″ (600 mm)
• Passenger side: 19″ (475–480 mm)
• Rear wiper (G21 Touring): around 12″ (300 mm), Touring-specific rear blade

Although the raw dimensions look familiar, G20/G21 blades often use newer connector types and aero profiles, so choosing “for G20/G21” in a parts catalog is more important than matching length alone.

Older Generations: E46, E36, E30

Classic 3 Series models use more traditional hook-style or pin-style mounts, and wiper lengths tend to be slightly shorter than on modern cars. For enthusiasts restoring or maintaining older cars, OEM-equivalent sizes help preserve the designed sweep pattern without overextending across the A-pillars.

The list below summarizes approximate sizes commonly cited for older LHD BMW 3 Series models (sedan and coupe). Individual years and body styles can vary by a small margin.

• E46 (1998–2005): driver 22″–23″, passenger 19″
• E36 (1990–2000): driver 21″–22″, passenger 19″
• E30 (1980s–early 1990s): often 18″–20″ on both sides, depending on market and brand

Because these cars span long production runs and multiple body types, confirming via an owner’s manual, a VIN-based catalog search, or a BMW specialist is strongly recommended before purchase.

Right-Hand-Drive and Regional Differences

Owners in the UK, Ireland, Australia, Japan, and other right-hand-drive (RHD) markets should be aware that wiper blade sizes may be reversed or slightly altered to prioritize the driver’s field of view on the other side of the cabin. While the total sweep area is similar, the “longer” blade may be fitted to the side closest to the steering wheel.

The list that follows highlights key considerations for RHD BMW 3 Series models.

• Some RHD models use the same nominal lengths (24″/19″) but swap which side gets the longer blade.
• Certain RHD configurations use subtly different lengths, such as 22″/19″, to optimize wiper arc and reduce judder near the A-pillar.
• Manufacturers often sell separate SKUs labeled “LHD” and “RHD” despite identical lengths, due to the angle and curvature of the blade pre-sets.

Because of these nuances, RHD owners should avoid relying solely on length and instead select blades explicitly listed for their market and steering configuration.

How to Confirm the Correct Size for Your Specific 3 Series

Even with generation-based guidelines, the most reliable way to identify correct wiper blades is to cross-check multiple sources: the car’s documentation, the current blades, and a reputable online or dealer catalog. This helps you avoid errors caused by previous owners fitting non-standard sizes or mixing brands.

Check the Owner’s Manual and Existing Blades

Your BMW’s owner’s manual typically lists recommended wiper blade specifications or at least points you to genuine BMW part numbers. Comparing that with the blades currently mounted can reveal whether the existing size is correct or an improvised replacement.

The steps below outline a straightforward approach to checking size using your current hardware.

1. Park the car safely and switch off the ignition with wipers returned to their rest position.
2. Lift each wiper arm carefully away from the windshield to prevent accidental snap-back.
3. Check for any printed size markings on the rubber or plastic frame (e.g., “24” or “600 mm”).
4. If no markings are visible, measure the blade from end to end with a tape measure in inches or millimeters.
5. Compare your measurement with the figures recommended in the owner’s manual or a trusted parts catalog.

This method confirms whether your current blades match the recommended spec and helps you avoid copying an incorrect size installed by a previous owner or workshop.

Use VIN-Based Online Catalogs or Dealer Databases

Because BMW builds numerous regional and trim variants, VIN-based lookup tools provide a more granular match than generation-only charts. Most large parts retailers and BMW’s own ETK (Electronic Parts Catalog) system can decode your VIN to return a precise part number for front and rear blades.

The following list summarizes best practices when using digital catalogs.

• Enter the full 17-character VIN to ensure your exact variant is identified.
• Verify that the catalog entry matches your body style (sedan, Touring, Gran Turismo, coupé, convertible).
• Check whether the listing specifies “LHD” or “RHD” to avoid steering-side mismatches.
• Note both the BMW OEM part number and any cross-referenced aftermarket numbers (Bosch, Valeo, etc.).

Following these steps provides you with both factory and aftermarket options that fit correctly, reducing the risk of ordering a near-miss size that only partly covers the windshield.

Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Wiper Blades

Once you know the correct size for your BMW 3 Series, the next question is whether to purchase genuine BMW blades or high-quality aftermarket alternatives. Both can perform well if they are correctly sized and compatible with the mounting system.

OEM BMW Blades vs. Premium Aftermarket Brands

Original BMW wiper blades are often manufactured by well-known suppliers like Bosch or Valeo and tuned specifically for the windshield curvature. However, direct-purchase aftermarket versions from those same brands can offer similar performance at a lower cost, provided you select the right product line and connection type.

The following list outlines key differences to weigh when choosing between OEM and aftermarket blades.

• Fit and compatibility: OEM blades come pre-configured for your arms; premium aftermarket blades typically provide the correct adapter for BMW-style mounts.
• Performance: High-end aftermarket lines (e.g., Bosch Aerotwin, Valeo Silencio) generally perform on par with, or close to, genuine BMW blades.
• Price: OEM blades usually cost more; aftermarket kits can be significantly cheaper, especially when offered as paired “vehicle-specific sets.”
• Availability: Aftermarket blades are often easier to source quickly from general parts stores and online retailers.

If you prioritize plug-and-play simplicity and brand consistency, OEM is a safe choice; if cost and availability matter more, a good aftermarket set in the correct size is usually an excellent alternative.

Signs You Need New Wiper Blades

Correct sizing alone won’t guarantee clear visibility if the rubber is worn or damaged. BMW wiper blades, like all rubber components, degrade over time through UV exposure, heat, cold, and mechanical wear. Regular inspection is therefore part of safe vehicle maintenance.

The list below summarizes common warning signs that your blades need replacement.

• Streaking or smearing: Persistent water trails across the swept area even after cleaning the rubber and glass.
• Chattering or judder: Blades bounce or vibrate noisily as they pass over the glass, especially at higher speeds.
• Cracks or splits: Visible damage or hardened, brittle rubber along the wiping edge.
• Uneven contact: Sections of the blade fail to touch the windshield, leaving unwiped “bands” or patches.
• Noise: Excessive squeaking or scraping sounds, even on a thoroughly cleaned windshield.

Summary

For most modern BMW 3 Series models—particularly E90/E91/E92/E93, F30/F31/F34, and G20/G21 left-hand-drive cars—the standard wiper setup is a 24-inch driver-side blade and a 19-inch passenger-side blade, with Touring models using a roughly 12–13-inch rear blade. Older generations often use slightly shorter front blades, and right-hand-drive versions may swap or alter lengths to suit the opposite driving position. Because of generational, regional, and body-style variations, the safest approach is to confirm sizes via your owner’s manual, your existing blades, and a VIN-based parts catalog before buying. Whether you choose OEM or high-quality aftermarket blades, ensuring correct sizing and timely replacement is key to maintaining clear, safe visibility in all weather.