So many parts on your Hyundai Elantra help you drive safely regardless of weather or road conditions. You probably think about your brakes, suspension and steering systems, but perhaps your wipers don’t immediately come to mind. But they play a huge role in providing visibility, clearing your windshield of rain, snow, ice, dirt, water and anything else that comes your way. Regular maintenance includes changing your blades and selecting replacements that best meet your needs. This short guide gives you the scoop on blades for your windshield wipers – how to find the correct size, when to change them and more.

Is Each Blade the Same Size?

You may notice that the driver’s and passenger’s side wipers on many vehicles are not the same size. That’s because of how the manufacturer has positioned the wipers on the front windshield. In many cases, the driver’s side wiper is longer so it can reach as much of the windshield surface as possible. That’s the case with your 2017 Hyundai Elantra wiper blades. You will need a 26-inch blade on the driver’s side and a 16-inch blade on the passenger’s side.

How Often Should You Replace Blades?

The more you use your wipers, the faster their blades will wear out. That’s a simple piece of logic, but it bears repeating for a couple of reasons. First of all, you’ll likely need replacement blades every six to 12 months. Second, the type of blades you buy affects how long they last.

You’re probably familiar with conventional blades, the old-school style with rubber squeegee edges attached to metal frames with pivot points. Buying a trusted brand ensures that you get good performance – some examples include Bosch and Duralast. They’re also the least expensive kind on the market. If you live in climates with heavy rain and snow, they may wear out more quickly.

Beam blades feature an advanced design with a solid rubber piece curved to match the arc of your windshield. There’s no exposed metal that can get clogged with snow and ice. With precision cleaning and longer lifespans, you can expect good value for your money. While they cost more than other types, they can last up to twice as long as conventional blades. You’ll usually find Bosch, RainX and Duralast beam blades.

If beam blades aren’t in your budget, hybrid blades may be a sound option. Hybrids use an aerodynamic curved rubber shell like beam blades. Yet they also incorporate metal frames with pivot points. They last longer than conventional blades and deliver better cleaning quality, but they cost less than beam blades. Hybrid blades come in a wide range of brands.

Where Can You Buy Wiper Blades?

Tracking down your Hyundai Elantra wiper blades is easy. To get the best value and service, shop at a trusted aftermarket auto parts and accessories retailer. Your favorite retailer offers a wide selection, competitive prices and knowledgeable staff to help you choose the best blades for your Hyundai.

Joseph Norton