The Forester generally uses a 26-inch driver-side front blade and a 16-inch passenger-side front blade, with a rear blade around 11 inches. Exact lengths can vary by year and trim, so always verify with your owner’s manual or the door jamb label when shopping for replacements.
Front Wiper Blades: Fit by Model Year
Here’s a concise guide to the front blade lengths commonly used on Forester generations. Sizes are in inches and reflect typical OEM-equivalent replacements.
- 2009–2013 Forester (third generation): 26" driver-side blade, 16" passenger-side blade.
- 2014–2018 Forester (fourth generation): 26" driver-side blade, 16" passenger-side blade.
- 2019–2023 Forester (fifth generation): 26" driver-side blade, 16" passenger-side blade.
- 2024–present Forester: 26" driver-side blade, 16" passenger-side blade.
Note: While these lengths cover the vast majority of Forester models, some trims or regional variations may differ. When in doubt, verify the exact size using the vehicle’s VIN or a retailer’s fitment lookup tool.
What stays consistent across generations
Across current Forester generations, front blades are typically 26 inches on the driver side and 16 inches on the passenger side, making it easy to select a standard pair. Always double-check for your specific year and trim if you’re unsure.
Rear Wiper Blades: Fit by Model Year
Rear wiper blades on the Forester are smaller and more variable between years. The typical length sits around 11 inches, though some years use 10–12 inches. Check your exact specification before purchasing a replacement.
- 2009–2013 Forester: Rear blade commonly around 10–11 inches.
- 2014–2018 Forester: Rear blade around 11 inches.
- 2019–2023 Forester: Rear blade around 11 inches.
- 2024–present Forester: Rear blade around 11–12 inches.
Conclusion: For the rear blade, measure the current blade or consult the owner's manual to confirm the precise length for your year and trim.
Recommended Blade Types and Popular Brands
For the Forester, beam-style blades are generally recommended for durable, even contact across the windshield. When shopping, you’ll typically see 26" and 16" front blades and about 11" rear blades. Consider these well-regarded options.
- Front blades: Bosch ICON, Rain-X Latitude Water Repellency, Valeo 900 Ultimate, Anco AeroVantage. Look for 26" (driver) and 16" (passenger) configurations.
- Rear blades: Match the common 11" size with brands such as Bosch, Rain-X, Valeo, or Anco that offer rear replacements.
Conclusion: Most auto parts retailers offer a year/make/model look-up to confirm exact blade lengths for your Forester. When in doubt, start with the standard 26"/16" front pair and an around-11" rear blade, then adjust if needed.
How to Confirm Fitment
- Check the owner’s manual for blade length specifications.
- Inspect the driver’s door jamb sticker for the recommended blade size.
- Use online fitment tools at auto parts retailers by entering year, make, and model (and trim, if prompted).
Conclusion: Verifying fitment through these steps helps ensure you buy the correct blades the first time.
Installation Tips
Replacing wiper blades is quick and safe when you follow proper steps: lift the wiper arm, release the old blade, align the new blade with the arm’s hook/connector, and test sweep with the engine off before use in rain.
Conclusion: Proper installation ensures optimal contact, visibility, and blade longevity.
Summary
The Subaru Forester commonly uses a 26" front driver blade and a 16" front passenger blade, with an around-11" rear blade. Sizes are fairly consistent across recent generations, but slight year-to-year variations can occur. Always verify with the owner’s manual or a fitment tool from a retailer to ensure you select the correct blades for your exact year and trim. Brands such as Bosch, Rain-X, Valeo, and Anco offer reliable 26"/16" front options and matching rear blades.