2020 Ford Explorer Windshield Wipers Size – The Definitive Guide
The 2020 Ford Explorer requires a 26-inch blade for the driver’s side, a 20-inch blade for the passenger’s side, and an 11-inch blade for the rear window. Using the correct beam-style blades ensures full contact with the curved glass, providing maximum safety during heavy rain or snow.
We have all been there: a sudden downpour hits while you are cruising down the highway, and your wipers just smear the grime across the glass. Finding the correct 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size is the first step toward reclaiming your road safety and driving confidence.
As a technician who has spent years under the hoods and on the windshields of Ford’s most popular SUVs, I know that the right fit matters. A blade that is too long will collide with the A-pillar, while one that is too short leaves dangerous blind spots.
In this guide, I will break down the exact measurements you need, the best materials for different climates, and the “pro” secrets to a five-minute installation. Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend off-roader, this information will keep your view crystal clear.
Choosing the Correct 2020 Ford Explorer Windshield Wipers Size
The 2020 model year marked a significant redesign for the Ford Explorer, moving to the CD6 platform. With this change came specific requirements for the windshield wiper system that differ from older generations.
For the front windshield, you need two different lengths to cover the expansive glass surface effectively. The driver’s side uses a 26-inch blade, which provides a wide sweep for the person behind the wheel.
The passenger side requires a 20-inch blade to clear the rest of the viewing area without overlapping the driver-side arm. This offset setup is standard for modern SUVs to maximize the “cleared” surface area.
Do not forget the back of the vehicle, especially if you frequently drive on dusty trails or muddy backroads. The 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size for the rear window is a compact 11-inch blade designed for the specific curvature of the liftgate glass.
Summary of Sizes for the 2020 Explorer:
- Driver Side: 26 Inches
- Passenger Side: 20 Inches
- Rear Window: 11 Inches
When you know the 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size, you can avoid the frustration of returning the wrong parts to the store. Always double-check the packaging, as some brands may suggest a 19-inch passenger blade, but the 20-inch version offers superior coverage.
Understanding Wiper Blade Types and Materials
Once you have the sizes down, you need to choose the right blade technology. Not all wipers are created equal, and the 2020 Explorer benefits most from specific designs that handle its aerodynamic profile.
Beam Blades: The Gold Standard
Most 2020 Ford Explorers come factory-equipped with beam blades. Unlike traditional “bracket” wipers, beam blades have no external frame. They use a tensioned steel spring inside the rubber to apply even pressure across the entire length of the blade.
This design is crucial for the Explorer because the windshield has a significant curve. Beam blades are also less likely to clog with ice or snow, making them ideal for those living in northern climates or high altitudes.
Silicone vs. Natural Rubber
Standard blades use natural rubber, which is affordable but can degrade quickly under intense UV rays or extreme cold. If you find yourself replacing wipers every three months, consider upgrading to silicone blades.
Silicone is more resilient to heat and leaves a thin, water-repellent film on the glass as it wipes. This hydrophobic coating causes water to bead up and roll off, often allowing you to see clearly even before the wiper makes a pass.
Hybrid Wiper Blades
Hybrid blades combine the aerodynamic “shell” of a beam blade with the internal pressure points of a traditional frame. These are excellent for off-roaders who deal with heavy mud, as the outer shell protects the mechanical linkages from debris.
Signs Your Ford Explorer Needs New Wipers
Knowing the 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size is only helpful if you know when it is time to use that knowledge. Most experts recommend changing your blades every six to twelve months.
The most obvious sign is streaking. If the wiper leaves bands of water across the glass, the rubber element has likely hardened or cracked. This is common after a long, hot summer where the sun “bakes” the blades.
Listen for chattering or squeaking. If the blades jump across the glass rather than sliding smoothly, the wiper arm might be slightly bent, or the rubber has lost its flexibility. This creates a distracting noise and poor visibility.
Finally, inspect the blades for physical damage. Lift the wiper arm and run your finger along the edge. If you feel nicks, tears, or see the rubber pulling away from the frame, replace them immediately to avoid scratching your windshield.
Step-by-Step Installation for the 2020 Ford Explorer
Changing the wipers on a 2020 Explorer is a straightforward DIY task that requires no tools. However, the 2020 model uses a specific connector type that can be tricky if you have never seen it before.
Preparing the Surface
Before you begin, clean your windshield thoroughly. Use a high-quality glass cleaner to remove any road film, sap, or bird droppings. Installing new blades on a dirty windshield can damage the fresh rubber instantly.
Removing the Old Blades
- Pull the wiper arm away from the windshield until it locks in a vertical position.
- Pro Tip: Place a folded towel on the windshield directly under the wiper arm. If the arm snaps back down without a blade attached, it can crack your glass.
- Locate the small tab or button on the connector. For the 2020 Explorer, this is usually a Top Button or Pinch Tab system.
- Depress the tab and slide the old blade out of the arm attachment.
Installing the New Blades
- Align the new blade’s connector with the wiper arm.
- Slide the blade into the arm until you hear a distinct click. This click is vital; it ensures the blade won’t fly off while you are driving.
- Gently lower the arm back onto the glass. Repeat the process for the passenger side and the rear window.
After installation, give the windshield a quick spray with washer fluid and run the wipers. This confirms they are seated correctly and clears any manufacturing residue from the new rubber.
Optimizing Visibility for Off-Road and Adventure
If you take your Explorer off the beaten path, your wipers face unique challenges. Mud, sand, and grit can act like sandpaper, destroying a set of wipers in a single afternoon.
When off-roading, never use your wipers to clear dry mud or dust. This will scratch the glass and ruin the blades. Instead, use plenty of washer fluid to lubricate the surface before turning the wipers on.
For those who frequent dusty trails, I recommend carrying a small bottle of denatured alcohol and a rag. Periodically wiping down the rubber edge of your blades removes the buildup of fine silt that causes “micro-streaking.”
If you are camping in freezing temperatures, pull your wiper arms up off the glass overnight. This prevents the blades from freezing to the windshield, which can tear the rubber or burn out your wiper motor when you start the car in the morning.
Maintaining the Wiper System Components
While the 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size is the focus, the blades are only part of the system. To ensure they work perfectly, you must maintain the surrounding components.
Check your washer fluid level monthly. Use a seasonal fluid—one with anti-freeze properties for winter and a “bug wash” formula for summer. Avoid using plain water, as it lacks the lubricants needed to protect the wiper motor pump.
Inspect the washer nozzles located on the cowl or the wiper arms. If the spray pattern is weak or uneven, the nozzles might be clogged. You can often clear them using a very fine needle or a blast of compressed air.
If your new blades still leave streaks, you may have contaminants bonded to the glass. Use a clay bar or a dedicated glass stripping compound to deep-clean the windshield. This removes invisible layers of wax and oil that standard cleaners miss.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 Ford Explorer Windshield Wipers Size
What happens if I use the wrong wiper size?
If the blades are too long, they may hit the trim around the windshield or overlap each other, causing mechanical damage. If they are too short, you will have significant “blind spots” in your field of vision, which is a major safety hazard during storms.
Can I replace just the rubber refill on my 2020 Explorer?
While some older vehicles allowed for rubber refills, most modern beam blades are designed as a complete assembly. Replacing the entire blade is faster, easier, and ensures that the tensioning spring is also fresh and effective.
Why does my 2020 Explorer use a different size for each side?
The staggered 26-inch and 20-inch sizes allow the driver to have the largest possible cleared area. The shorter passenger blade is designed to clear the lower corner of the glass without hitting the roofline or the other wiper arm.
Is the rear wiper size the same for all 2020 Explorer trims?
Yes, whether you have the Base, XLT, Limited, ST, or Platinum trim, the 2020 ford explorer windshield wipers size for the rear remains a standard 11 inches. The liftgate design is consistent across the entire 2020 lineup.
Do I need special wipers for the Ford Explorer ST?
The ST trim uses the same 26/20/11 size configuration. However, because the ST is a performance-oriented SUV capable of higher speeds, choosing an aerodynamic beam blade is even more important to prevent “wind lift” at highway speeds.
Final Thoughts on Keeping Your View Clear
Maintaining your 2020 Ford Explorer is about more than just oil changes and tire rotations. Visibility is the most critical factor in active safety. By ensuring you have the correct 26″ driver, 20″ passenger, and 11″ rear blades, you are protecting yourself and your passengers.
Don’t wait for a thunderstorm to realize your wipers are failing. Make it a habit to check the condition of your rubber every time you wash your car. A small investment in high-quality beam blades today can prevent a dangerous situation on the road tomorrow.
Take five minutes this weekend to inspect your blades, clean your glass, and top off your fluid. It is one of the easiest DIY tasks you can perform, and the payoff is a clear, stress-free drive no matter what the weather throws at you. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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