Changing the wiper blades on a 2020 Kia Sorento is a simple, do-it-yourself task that can be completed in about 10 minutes. For most Sorentos, you’ll replace two front blades (26 inches on the driver’s side and 18 inches on the passenger side) and one rear blade (about 12 inches). The process involves lifting the wiper arms, removing the old blades, attaching new ones with the correct adapters, and then testing the operation to ensure a solid wipe.
Overview and Tools
Before you start, gather the right blades and make sure you have compatible adapters. Blade packaging or your vehicle’s owner’s manual will confirm the correct sizes and adapter type for a 2020 Sorento. You’ll typically need:
- Front wiper blades: 26" (driver) and 18" (passenger)
- Rear wiper blade: about 12"
- Replacement blades with the appropriate adapters (J-hook or pin adapters are common for modern Kia models)
- A clean, dry cloth to wipe the wiper bar and blade contact areas
Note: If your blades use a specialized adapter, follow the packaging instructions to attach them securely. Always replace wiper blades in pairs for uniform performance on the front, and replace the rear blade as needed when the rubber is cracked or shows heavy wear.
Front Wiper Blades
The steps below cover removing and installing both front blades. Use the indicated sizes to ensure a proper fit and full coverage across the windshield.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and gently lift the driver’s and passenger’s wiper arms away from the windshield.
- Depress the release mechanism on the blade reservoir (blade housing) or the adapter to detach the old blade from the wiper arm. For J-hook style arms, slide the blade downward or outward to free it, depending on the adapter design.
- Prepare the new blades by aligning them with the wiper arm’s connector. If your blades require adapters, attach the correct adapter per the packaging, then slide or snap the blade onto the arm until you hear a click.
- Lower the blade back onto the windshield carefully, ensuring the arm sits flush and the blade is properly seated in the frame. Repeat the process for the other front blade if needed.
- Return the wiper arms to their resting position on the windshield and wipe a small area to confirm a smooth, streak-free pass at a low speed.
When installing, make sure the blades are securely snapped into place and directed to sweep across the windshield without binding against the glass. If a blade feels loose or won’t click into position, re-check the adapter compatibility and re-seat the blade.
Choosing the right front blade and adapters
Front blade compatibility can vary by trim and market. For a 2020 Sorento, the common pairing is a 26" driver side blade and an 18" passenger blade with a J-hook or compatible adapter. Always verify with the packaging or your dealer if you’re unsure, as incorrect adapters can cause poor contact or damage to the wiper arm.
Concluding instruction for front blades: double-check fit, test a single wipe at low speed, and then perform a full wipe cycle to ensure no streaks or skipping.
Rear Wiper Blade
The rear wiper on the Sorento is a single blade and uses a different mounting from the front. Replacing it follows a shorter, separate sequence.
- Lift the rear wiper arm away from the rear window until it stays in a raised position.
- Locate the release tab on the blade’s connector and press or slide it to detach the old blade from the arm. If the blade slides on, simply slide it off the arm’s end.
- Attach the new rear blade by sliding it onto the arm until it clicks into place, ensuring the blade sits evenly on the arm.
- Lower the rear wiper arm back onto the window and gently test the sweep at a low speed to confirm proper seating and contact with the glass.
Rear blade replacement is typically quicker and involves fewer steps than the fronts. If the rear blade doesn’t fit, re-check the model year compatibility and adapter type for your Sorento’s trim level.
Rear blade compatibility and tips
Rear blade assemblies can vary by production run. If you encounter resistance or an improper fit, consult your owner’s manual or a parts specialist to confirm the exact replacement blade length and connector type for your 2020 Sorento.
Final Checks and Tips
After replacing both front and rear blades, perform a test wipe and then wash the windshield to observe clarity. If you notice streaking, re-seat the blades or consider a higher-quality blade with a softer rubber compound for better performance in varying climates. Regular inspection every 6–12 months helps prevent sudden blade failure in poor weather.
Summary
Changing the windshield wipers on a 2020 Kia Sorento involves identifying the correct blade sizes (26" driver, 18" passenger front; 12" rear), lifting the wiper arms, removing old blades, attaching new blades with the proper adapters, and testing the wipe. Front blades typically use a J-hook or compatible adapter, while the rear blade uses a different connector. With the right blades and adapters, the job can be completed in about 10 minutes and will improve visibility in rain and snow.