2017 Nissan Sentra Wiper Blade Size

So, you're having some trouble with your 2017 Nissan Sentra's wiper blades? Don't worry, you're not alone. It's a common maintenance item, and getting the right size is crucial for clear visibility and safe driving. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about wiper blade sizes for your Sentra, common issues, and how to get them replaced – whether you’re a DIYer or prefer to leave it to the professionals.

Understanding the Correct Wiper Blade Sizes for Your 2017 Sentra

First things first, let’s nail down the right wiper blade sizes for your 2017 Nissan Sentra. Many owners assume both blades are the same length, but that's often not the case. For a 2017 Sentra, you need:

Driver Side: 28 inches
Passenger Side: 15 inches

It's absolutely critical to use the correct sizes. Using wiper blades that are too long can cause them to overlap or hit parts of the car, potentially damaging them or the wiper motor. Blades that are too short won't clear the windshield properly, leaving streaks and reducing visibility.

Why is Getting the Right Size So Important?

Beyond just clearing the windshield, the correct size ensures proper contact and pressure across the entire blade surface. This leads to:

Optimal Visibility: No streaks, smears, or missed spots.
Extended Blade Life: Proper contact reduces uneven wear.
Reduced Noise: Correctly sized blades won't chatter or squeak as much.
Prevention of Damage: Avoids contact with trim or other components.

Ignoring these benefits can lead to dangerous driving conditions, especially in inclement weather. Think of it as cheap insurance for your safety!

Common Problems with Wiper Blades (And How to Diagnose Them)

Okay, you know the correct sizes. But how do you know *when* to replace your wiper blades? Here are some telltale signs:

Streaking: This is the most common symptom. You'll see visible lines of water left behind after the wipers sweep.
Skipping: The blades jump or skip across the windshield, especially at higher speeds.
Smearing: Instead of clearing the water, the blades spread it around, leaving a hazy film.
Chattering: A loud squeaking or chattering sound as the wipers move.
Torn or Cracked Rubber: Inspect the blades themselves. Look for visible damage to the rubber wiping edge. This is a surefire sign they need replacing.

Diagnosing the Root Cause

Sometimes, the problem isn't just the blades themselves. Consider these factors:

Contamination: Road grime, wax, or tree sap can accumulate on the blades and windshield, causing streaking. Clean both the blades and windshield thoroughly with a glass cleaner.
Wiper Arm Pressure: Over time, the wiper arms can lose their tension, reducing the pressure on the blades. This can cause skipping or streaking, even with new blades. You can try carefully bending the wiper arm slightly to increase the pressure, but be very gentle – they can break easily. If bending doesn't work, the wiper arm itself might need replacement.
Windshield Damage: A chipped or scratched windshield can interfere with the blade's contact, leading to poor performance. In this case, windshield repair or replacement might be necessary.

Replacing Your 2017 Sentra's Wiper Blades: DIY vs. Professional

Replacing wiper blades is a relatively simple task, making it a popular DIY project. However, there are pros and cons to both DIY and professional installation.

DIY Wiper Blade Replacement

Tools Needed:

New 28-inch and 15-inch wiper blades
Possibly a small flathead screwdriver (depending on the blade attachment type)
Paper towels or a clean rag
Work gloves (optional, but recommended to keep your hands clean)

Steps:

Lift the Wiper Arm: Carefully lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
Locate the Release Mechanism: Most 2017 Sentras use a "J-hook" or a "pinch tab" style attachment. Look for a small tab or clip that needs to be pressed or slid to release the old blade. Consult your owner's manual or a quick online search for the specific mechanism on your car.
Be gentle! Forcing it can break the clip.
Remove the Old Blade: Once released, slide the old blade down and off the wiper arm.
Attach the New Blade: Align the new blade with the wiper arm and slide it into place until it clicks or locks securely.
Repeat for the Other Side: Do the same for the other wiper blade.
Test: Gently lower the wiper arms back onto the windshield and test the wipers with washer fluid.

Pros of DIY:

Cost Savings: You only pay for the blades themselves, saving on labor costs.
Convenience: You can do it on your own schedule.
Satisfaction: The feeling of accomplishment from doing it yourself!

Cons of DIY:

Potential for Damage: If you're not careful, you could scratch the windshield or damage the wiper arms.
Incorrect Installation: Installing the blades improperly can lead to poor performance or even blade detachment while driving.
Time Commitment: Even though it's a quick job, it still requires your time and effort.

Professional Wiper Blade Replacement

What to Expect:

At a service center or auto parts store, a technician will typically:

Inspect your existing wiper blades.
Recommend the appropriate replacement blades.
Install the new blades correctly.
Ensure proper operation.

Pros of Professional Installation:

Expertise: Technicians are trained to install wiper blades correctly and efficiently.
Peace of Mind: You can be confident that the job is done right.
Warranty: Many shops offer a warranty on their work.

Cons of Professional Installation:

Higher Cost: You'll pay for labor in addition to the cost of the blades.
Scheduling: You'll need to schedule an appointment and take your car to the shop.

Cost Considerations

The cost of wiper blades varies depending on the brand, type (conventional, beam, hybrid), and where you purchase them. Expect to pay:

DIY: $15 - $40 for a pair of standard wiper blades. Premium blades can cost more.
Professional Installation: $30 - $60, including the cost of the blades and labor. This can vary based on the shop's hourly rate.

Pro Tip: Shop around for the best prices. Auto parts stores, online retailers, and even some gas stations carry wiper blades. Look for sales and discounts!

Choosing the Right Type of Wiper Blade

You'll find several types of wiper blades available, each with its own advantages:

Conventional Wiper Blades: These are the most common and typically the least expensive. They have a metal frame with multiple pressure points to hold the rubber blade against the windshield.
Beam Wiper Blades: These blades have a frameless design with a curved steel spring that distributes pressure evenly across the entire blade. They often perform better in snow and ice and tend to last longer.
Hybrid Wiper Blades: These combine features of both conventional and beam blades, offering a balance of performance and durability.

For a 2017 Nissan Sentra, any of these types will work, but beam blades are generally considered an upgrade due to their superior performance and longer lifespan, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your 2017 Nissan Sentra's wiper blades is a simple but crucial maintenance task. By understanding the correct sizes, recognizing the signs of wear, and choosing the right replacement method, you can ensure clear visibility and safe driving in all weather conditions. Don't neglect this important safety feature – your visibility depends on it!