What Size Wiper Blades for a Hyundai Santa Fe?

Most recent Hyundai Santa Fe models use a 26-inch wiper blade on the driver’s side and a 16- to 18-inch blade on the passenger side, but the exact sizes depend on the model year and, in some cases, trim. Because Hyundai has changed specifications over time, owners should confirm the correct sizes for their specific year before buying replacements.

Why Wiper Blade Size Matters on the Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe, a popular midsize SUV, has a large, sloping windshield designed to maximize visibility. Wiper blades that are too short leave uncleaned areas, while blades that are too long can hit the edge of the windshield or overlap, causing noise, streaking, or even motor strain. Choosing the correct size ensures safe visibility in rain, snow, and road spray, and helps avoid unnecessary wear on the wiper mechanism.

Typical Wiper Blade Sizes by Hyundai Santa Fe Generation

While the exact specifications can vary slightly by market and trim, most Santa Fe models fall into recognizable size patterns by generation. The following breakdown summarizes commonly specified sizes for North American models; drivers should still confirm fitment with a parts catalog or their VIN.

Fourth Generation (2019–2024 Santa Fe)

For the current and most recent generation of the Santa Fe (including the 2024 model year), Hyundai standardized the front wiper sizes for most trims. This makes it relatively straightforward for owners to replace blades without consulting the owner’s manual every time.

• Driver’s side: 26 inches
• Passenger side: 16 inches (some catalogs list 17–18 inches for certain trims; 16 is the most common OE spec)
• Rear wiper (if equipped): typically 12–14 inches depending on configuration

For the 2019–2024 Santa Fe, many aftermarket brands list a matched pair kit (26" and 16") as the standard front set; rear sizes are more variable and best confirmed via VIN or online fitment tools.

Third Generation (2013–2018 Santa Fe, Including Santa Fe Sport)

The third-generation Santa Fe, including the two-row Santa Fe Sport and the larger three-row variants, often shares similar driver’s side sizing with newer models but can differ on the passenger side and rear. This period also saw more variation between markets and body styles.

• Driver’s side: typically 26 inches
• Passenger side: commonly 16–18 inches (many North American Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport models use 18 inches)
• Rear wiper (SUV/hatch-style liftgate): typically around 12–14 inches, varying by body style

Owners of 2013–2018 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport models should double-check both the passenger and rear sizes, as some trims list 18-inch passenger blades while others are cataloged at 16 inches, and rear arms differ between two- and three-row configurations.

Second Generation (2007–2012 Santa Fe)

The second-generation Santa Fe generally retains a long driver’s side blade but is more conservative on the passenger side. Because of the windshield curve and arm geometry, using blades that are too long can cause chattering and incomplete contact on these older models.

• Driver’s side: commonly 24–26 inches (24 inches is frequently specified; some catalogs list 26 inches as compatible)
• Passenger side: typically 16–18 inches, depending on year and region
• Rear wiper: usually 12–13 inches on models equipped with a rear wiper

For 2007–2012 Santa Fe SUVs, checking an online parts guide or the owner’s manual is especially important because both 24- and 26-inch blades appear in aftermarket catalogs; using the size recommended for your specific year and trim will provide the best sweep and minimize noise.

First Generation (2001–2006 Santa Fe)

The earliest Santa Fe models use shorter blades overall, reflecting a more upright windshield design compared with the later generations. Replacement options are widely available from aftermarket brands, but the correct size remains crucial to avoid missed areas and arm interference.

• Driver’s side: commonly around 22–24 inches
• Passenger side: typically 18–19 inches
• Rear wiper: roughly 12 inches where fitted

Because first-generation Santa Fe models are older and may have had their arms or windshield replaced, owners should verify size by either measuring the existing blades or using a vehicle-specific parts lookup instead of relying solely on generic recommendations.

How to Confirm the Exact Wiper Sizes for Your Santa Fe

Even with model-year guides, the most reliable method is to confirm the specifications tied to your exact vehicle. Small differences in trim, region, or mid-cycle updates can affect blade length, as can previous owner modifications.

The methods below outline practical steps owners can take to validate blade size before making a purchase, helping avoid returns and ensuring the best possible visibility.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Most Hyundai manuals list wiper blade lengths and part numbers in the maintenance or specifications section.
2. Use an online fitment tool: Major parts retailers and wiper manufacturers allow you to enter the year, make, model, and sometimes trim to display the correct sizes.
3. Measure your current blades: Use a tape measure to check the length of the existing driver, passenger, and rear blades from end to end.
4. Consult a Hyundai dealer: Providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) lets parts staff pull up the exact OEM spec for your vehicle.
5. Inspect the wiper arm travel: After install, run the wipers briefly to ensure the blades don’t hit moldings, overlap, or run off the windshield edge.

By combining these approaches—especially checking the manual or a VIN-based parts lookup—Santa Fe owners can be confident they’re using the correct wiper blade sizes for their exact vehicle, regardless of generation or trim level.

Choosing the Right Type of Wiper Blade

Once the correct size is known, the blade type also affects performance, noise, and durability, particularly in harsh climates. Modern wipers for the Santa Fe come in several main styles, each with distinct advantages for different driving conditions.

The following points summarize the most common blade types available for Hyundai Santa Fe models and explain when each might be the best choice, taking into account climate, driving patterns, and budget.

• Conventional frame blades: Metal frame with multiple pressure points; affordable and widely available, suitable for mild climates and everyday driving.
• Beam (flat) blades: One-piece curved design that hugs the windshield; excellent in snow and high-speed rain, often quieter and more aerodynamic.
• Hybrid blades: Combine frame structure with a streamlined shell; offer good all-weather performance with improved aesthetics over traditional frames.
• Winter-specific blades: Encased designs that prevent ice buildup; ideal for regions with heavy snow and frequent sub-freezing temperatures.

Matching the blade type to your local weather and driving conditions—while keeping to the correct size—helps maximize visibility and extends wiper life, especially for Santa Fe owners who regularly encounter highway speeds, heavy rain, or snow.

Installation Tips for Hyundai Santa Fe Wiper Blades

Most aftermarket wiper kits for the Hyundai Santa Fe include adapters for common arm types, such as the J-hook used on many Hyundai models. Correct installation ensures the blades sit flush against the windshield and operate quietly without streaks or skipping.

The steps below outline a typical installation process that applies to most Santa Fe generations, though specific adapter mechanisms may vary slightly by brand.

1. Lift the wiper arm: Carefully raise the arm away from the windshield until it locks in the service position.
2. Release the old blade: Press the tab or latch on the existing blade and slide it off the hook or connector.
3. Attach the adapter: If required, snap the correct adapter onto the new wiper blade according to the instructions provided.
4. Secure the new blade: Slide the hook or connector into place until it firmly clicks, ensuring it’s locked and cannot slide off.
5. Lower and test: Gently place the arm back on the windshield and test the wipers with washer fluid to confirm smooth, quiet operation across the full sweep.

Following these steps and double-checking that each blade is firmly latched reduces the risk of blade detachment during use and helps ensure even pressure across the Santa Fe’s windshield for clear, streak-free wiping.

Summary

Hyundai Santa Fe wiper blade sizes vary by generation and, in some cases, by trim, but many recent models typically use a 26-inch blade on the driver’s side and a 16- to 18-inch blade on the passenger side, with a smaller rear wiper. Because Hyundai has adjusted specifications over the years, the most reliable approach is to confirm your exact sizes via the owner’s manual, an online fitment guide, or a dealer using your VIN. Once you know the correct length, selecting the right blade type and installing it properly will help maintain safe, clear visibility in all weather conditions.