How to Change Windshield Wipers Hyundai Elantra 2020

Changing the windshield wipers on your 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a quick, DIY-friendly task that takes less than 15 minutes. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can ensure optimal visibility and safety during rain, snow, or sleet—no mechanic required.

Key Takeaways

• Check wiper condition regularly: Look for streaking, skipping, or squeaking—signs it’s time for a replacement.
• Use the correct wiper size: The 2020 Elantra uses 26-inch (driver) and 16-inch (passenger) blades—measure or check your owner’s manual.
• Choose quality replacement blades: Opt for reputable brands like Bosch, Rain-X, or OEM Hyundai parts for durability and performance.
• Replace both wipers at once: Even if one looks fine, replacing both ensures even wear and consistent performance.
• Follow safe lifting procedures: Always lift the wiper arms away from the windshield gently to avoid damage.
• Test after installation: Run the wipers with washer fluid to confirm smooth operation and proper contact.
• Replace every 6–12 months: Regular replacement prevents poor visibility and extends blade life.

Why Changing Your Windshield Wipers Matters

Imagine driving home on a rainy evening, only to realize your windshield wipers are leaving streaks, skipping spots, or making a loud squeaking noise. Not only is this annoying, but it’s also dangerous. Poor visibility increases your risk of accidents, especially in heavy rain or snow. That’s why maintaining your windshield wipers is a small but crucial part of vehicle safety.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra comes equipped with reliable wiper systems, but like all rubber components, the blades wear out over time. Exposure to sun, rain, ice, and road debris causes the rubber to crack, harden, or lose flexibility. When that happens, your wipers can’t effectively clear water, dirt, or snow from the glass. The result? Blurry vision, glare from oncoming headlights, and reduced reaction time.

Thankfully, changing the windshield wipers on a 2020 Hyundai Elantra is one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can do yourself. You don’t need special tools, a garage, or mechanical expertise. With just a few minutes and the right replacement blades, you can restore clear visibility and drive with confidence—no matter the weather.

When Should You Replace Your Windshield Wipers?

Knowing when to replace your wipers is half the battle. Waiting too long can compromise your safety, but replacing them too early wastes money. So, how do you know it’s time? Here are the most common signs that your 2020 Elantra’s wipers need replacing.

Visible Damage to the Rubber Blade

The most obvious sign is physical wear. Inspect the rubber edge of each wiper blade. If you see cracks, splits, or chunks missing, it’s time for a change. Even small cracks can reduce wiping efficiency. Over time, UV rays from the sun dry out the rubber, making it brittle. This is especially common in hot climates or if your car is parked outside frequently.

Streaking or Smearing

After using your wipers, check the windshield. If you notice streaks, smears, or a hazy film left behind, the blades aren’t making proper contact. This often happens when the rubber has hardened or warped. Streaking is more than just annoying—it can reflect light at night, creating glare that makes it harder to see.

Skipping or Bouncing

Do your wipers jump or skip across the glass instead of gliding smoothly? This usually means the blade has lost its shape or the arm tension is off. Skipping leaves uncleared patches, which can be especially dangerous during sudden downpours.

Squeaking or Chattering Sounds

A high-pitched squeak or chattering noise during operation is a red flag. It indicates friction between the blade and the glass, often due to dry or damaged rubber. While a quick spray of washer fluid might quiet it temporarily, the underlying issue remains.

Reduced Performance in Light Rain

Even light rain should be cleared effectively. If your wipers struggle to remove light moisture or leave behind a film, they’re no longer doing their job. This is a sign the rubber has lost its flexibility and can’t conform to the curved windshield.

Age of the Blades

As a general rule, replace your wiper blades every 6 to 12 months. Even if they look okay, rubber degrades over time. If it’s been a year since your last replacement, it’s wise to swap them out—especially before winter or rainy seasons.

Choosing the Right Replacement Wipers for Your 2020 Hyundai Elantra

Not all wiper blades are created equal. Using the wrong size or type can lead to poor performance, damage to your windshield, or even injury if a blade flies off at high speed. So, how do you pick the right ones for your Elantra?

Correct Wiper Blade Sizes

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra uses two different blade sizes:

• Driver’s side: 26 inches
• Passenger’s side: 16 inches

It’s important to get both sizes right. Using a blade that’s too long can cause it to hit the edge of the windshield or interfere with the other wiper. Too short, and you’ll have uncleared areas. Always double-check your owner’s manual or measure your current blades if you’re unsure.

Types of Wiper Blades

There are three main types of wiper blades available:

• Conventional (Frame) Blades: These are the traditional style with a metal frame and rubber blade. They’re affordable and widely available, but can struggle in heavy snow or ice because snow can pack into the frame.
• Beam (Flat) Blades: These have a sleek, frameless design with a single piece of rubber or silicone. They conform better to curved windshields and resist ice buildup. Many modern cars, including the Elantra, come with beam-style blades from the factory.
• Hybrid Blades: A mix of both styles, hybrid blades have a partial frame for durability but use a beam-style rubber element for better contact. They offer a good balance of performance and price.

For the 2020 Elantra, beam-style blades are recommended for optimal performance, especially in varying weather conditions.

Material Matters: Rubber vs. Silicone

Most wiper blades use rubber, but silicone options are growing in popularity. Here’s how they compare:

• Rubber blades: Affordable and effective in most conditions. However, they wear out faster in extreme heat or cold.
• Silicone blades: More durable and resistant to UV damage. They last longer and perform better in snow and ice. They also tend to be quieter. While more expensive upfront, they can save money over time.

If you live in a harsh climate or want longer-lasting performance, consider silicone blades from brands like Rain-X or Bosch.

Brand Recommendations

Stick with trusted brands to ensure quality and compatibility. Some top choices for the 2020 Elantra include:

• Bosch Icon: Premium beam-style blades with excellent durability and smooth operation.
• Rain-X Latitude: Popular hybrid blades with water-repelling coating for better visibility.
• OEM Hyundai Blades: Original equipment manufacturer parts designed specifically for your Elantra. Slightly more expensive but guaranteed to fit perfectly.
• Trico NeoForm: Affordable beam-style blades with good performance in most conditions.

Avoid cheap, no-name brands—they often fail quickly and can damage your windshield.

Where to Buy

You can purchase replacement wipers at auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts), online retailers (Amazon, RockAuto), or directly from a Hyundai dealership. Many stores offer free installation, but since the Elantra is so easy to do yourself, you might prefer to save the trip and do it at home.

Tools and Preparation Before You Start

One of the best things about changing wiper blades on a 2020 Hyundai Elantra is that you don’t need much. With a little preparation, you can complete the job in under 15 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need and how to get ready.

What You’ll Need

• New wiper blades (26” driver, 16” passenger)
• A clean cloth or paper towel
• Optional: Gloves (to keep hands clean)
• Optional: Windshield washer fluid (for testing)

That’s it! No wrenches, no jacks, no special tools. Just the new blades and a few minutes of your time.

Safety First: Preparing Your Vehicle

Before you begin, make sure your car is parked on a flat surface and the engine is off. Engage the parking brake for extra safety. If you’ve been driving recently, let the engine cool down—hot components can be dangerous.

Next, turn on the ignition and activate the wipers. Turn them off when they’re in the “up” position (pointing away from the windshield). This puts them in the service position, making it easier to access and remove them. On the 2020 Elantra, you can do this by turning the ignition to “ON” (without starting the engine), then moving the wiper stalk up and holding it until the wipers lift slightly. Release, and they’ll stay in place.

If your wipers don’t stay up, don’t force them. Gently lift the arms by hand, but be careful—they’re under spring tension and can snap back and crack the windshield if mishandled. Always lift them slowly and support them with one hand while working.

Cleaning the Wiper Arms and Windshield

While the arms are up, take a moment to wipe them down with a clean cloth. Remove any dirt, grime, or ice buildup. This ensures smooth operation and prevents debris from interfering with the new blades.

Also, clean the windshield around the wiper path. Use glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove bugs, dirt, or residue. A clean surface helps the new blades make proper contact and last longer.

Inspecting the Wiper Arm Hooks

Take a close look at the metal hook where the blade attaches to the arm. Make sure it’s not bent, rusted, or damaged. If the hook is compromised, the new blade may not stay secure. In rare cases, you might need to replace the entire wiper arm—but this is uncommon on the Elantra.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Windshield Wipers

Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to replace the blades. Follow these simple steps to remove the old ones and install the new ones safely and correctly.

Step 1: Lift the Wiper Arms

Gently lift the driver’s side wiper arm away from the windshield until it locks into the upright position. Repeat for the passenger side. Be careful not to let them snap back—support them with your hand as you lift.

Step 2: Locate the Release Tab

Look at the base of the wiper blade where it connects to the arm. You’ll see a small plastic tab or button. This is the release mechanism. On most 2020 Elantra models, it’s a push-tab design.

Step 3: Press the Tab and Slide the Blade Off

Press the tab firmly with your thumb. While holding it down, slide the blade downward (toward the base of the arm) to disconnect it. The old blade should come off easily. If it’s stuck, wiggle it gently while pressing the tab.

Step 4: Remove the Old Blade

Once the blade is free, set it aside. Take a moment to inspect the arm and the connector. Wipe away any dirt or debris with a cloth.

Step 5: Attach the New Blade

Take your new 26-inch blade (for the driver’s side). Align the connector with the wiper arm hook. Slide it upward until you hear a click. The tab should lock into place. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it’s secure.

Step 6: Repeat for the Passenger Side

Follow the same steps for the 16-inch passenger blade. Press the tab, slide the old one off, and attach the new one. Make sure both blades are firmly locked in.

Step 7: Lower the Wiper Arms

Carefully lower each wiper arm back onto the windshield. Do this slowly to avoid scratching the glass. The arms should rest gently against the windshield.

Step 8: Test the Wipers

Turn on the ignition and test the wipers. Spray washer fluid and run them through a few cycles. Watch for smooth, quiet operation. Check for streaking or skipping. If everything looks good, you’re done!

Tips for Maintaining Your New Wiper Blades

Now that you’ve installed new blades, a little maintenance can help them last longer and perform better. Here are some practical tips to keep your wipers in top shape.

Clean the Blades Regularly

Every few weeks, wipe the rubber edge of the blades with a damp cloth. This removes dirt, oil, and debris that can cause streaking. Avoid using harsh chemicals—plain water or mild soap is best.

Use Washer Fluid Frequently

Don’t wait for heavy dirt to build up. Use your windshield washer fluid regularly to keep the glass clean. This reduces the workload on your wipers and prevents abrasive particles from wearing down the rubber.

Avoid Using Wipers on Dry Glass

Never run your wipers on a dry windshield. This causes unnecessary friction and wears out the blades quickly. Always spray washer fluid first, especially if there’s dust or pollen on the glass.

Clear Snow and Ice Before Driving

In winter, never use your wipers to clear heavy snow or ice. This can damage the blades and strain the motor. Use a scraper to remove snow, and let the defroster melt ice before turning on the wipers.

Park in the Shade When Possible

UV rays accelerate rubber degradation. If you can, park in a garage or under cover to protect your wipers from sun damage.

Replace on Schedule

Even with good care, wiper blades wear out. Mark your calendar to replace them every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you notice performance issues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, even after replacing your wipers, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.

Wipers Still Streak or Skip

If your new blades are streaking, the windshield might be dirty or have a wax buildup. Clean the glass thoroughly with glass cleaner. Also, check that the blades are installed correctly—improper alignment can cause skipping.

Blades Make Noise

Squeaking or chattering can happen if the blades are dry. Run them with washer fluid a few times to “break them in.” If noise persists, the blades may be defective or incompatible.

Blades Don’t Stay Attached

If a blade keeps coming loose, double-check the connector type. Make sure you’re using the correct blade for your Elantra’s hook style. Some aftermarket blades have adapters—ensure they’re properly installed.

Arms Don’t Return to Rest Position

If the wiper arms don’t lower properly, the spring tension might be weak. This is rare but can happen with age. In most cases, the arms will settle after a few uses. If not, consult a mechanic.

Conclusion

Changing the windshield wipers on your 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a simple, rewarding task that enhances your safety and driving experience. With the right blades, a few minutes of your time, and the steps outlined above, you can ensure clear visibility in any weather. Regular maintenance and timely replacements keep your wipers performing at their best, so you can focus on the road ahead.

Don’t wait for a storm to reveal worn-out blades. Make wiper replacement part of your routine car care. Your eyes—and your passengers—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace the windshield wipers on my 2020 Hyundai Elantra?

It’s recommended to replace your wiper blades every 6 to 12 months, depending on climate and usage. Inspect them regularly for cracks, streaking, or noise.

Can I use any wiper blades on my 2020 Elantra?

No, you should use blades that match the correct size (26” driver, 16” passenger) and connector type. Beam-style blades are ideal for this model.

Do I need to lift the wiper arms to change the blades?

Yes, lifting the arms gives you access to the blades. Use the service position or lift them gently by hand to avoid damage.

What happens if I use the wrong size wiper blade?

Using the wrong size can cause poor wiping, streaking, or damage to the windshield. Always double-check the measurements before buying.

Can I install wiper blades myself, or do I need a mechanic?

You can easily install them yourself in under 15 minutes. No tools or expertise are required—just follow the step-by-step guide.

Why are my new wiper blades still streaking?

Streaking can be caused by a dirty windshield, improper installation, or defective blades. Clean the glass and ensure the blades are securely attached.