Windscreen Wipers: What Are Windshield Wipers Called in England?

Ever talk about your car and get funny looks from someone in the UK? Here’s a classic: what Americans call 'windshield wipers,' everyone in England calls 'windscreen wipers.' That’s not just a cute swap — it’s the official term used everywhere, from road signs to car manuals.

The word “windshield” simply doesn’t pop up much in Britain. Over there, it’s always “windscreen,” so every part, tool, and cleaner follows suit—think 'windscreen washer fluid,' not 'windshield washer.' If you step into an auto parts shop in England and ask for windshield wipers, you’ll probably get a polite correction, or just a knowing smile.

• The British Name for Windshield Wipers
• Car Lingo: More Fun Differences
• The Quirks of UK Windscreen Wipers
• Tips for Drivers in the UK

The British Name for Windshield Wipers

Hop into any car in England and reach for the sticks that clear the glass—you're looking for windscreen wipers. That’s the official British term. Everyone in the UK says “windscreen,” not “windshield,” so the tools that wipe them follow the same logic. You’ll see 'windscreen wipers' on packaging, in owner’s manuals, mechanic invoices—literally everywhere a British car part might be named.

This difference isn’t random. 'Windscreen' has been the English word for the front glass of a vehicle since the early 20th century, while 'windshield' is what stuck in the US and Canada. If you search for auto parts online with an address in the UK, you’ll never find 'windshield wipers' unless it’s aimed at tourists.

Here’s how UK and US car words line up for this part of your ride:

A fun twist—when you buy a car in the UK, the condition and operation of the windscreen wipers is one of the things checked during the MOT test. The MOT is the annual inspection cars need to be legal on UK roads, and wipers that don’t work mean you’re failing that test. You’ll also find rear windscreen wipers on most hatchbacks and estate cars, but the term never changes. Front or back, it’s always “windscreen wiper.”

Car Lingo: More Fun Differences

British car talk isn’t just about swapping 'windshield' for 'windscreen.' There’s a whole set of terms that’ll trip up anyone used to American names. If you want to sound like a local, or at least understand what your rental agent is saying, check these out.

• The hood is called the ‘bonnet.’ Need to check your oil? Pop the bonnet, not the hood.
• The trunk goes by ‘boot.’ Suitcase goes in the boot, simple as that.
• Gas? Nope, it’s called ‘petrol.’ You’ll see ‘petrol station’ instead of ‘gas station’ everywhere.
• Turn signals are ‘indicators,’ and ‘blinkers’ is never used in the UK.
• The parking lot is a ‘car park’ and the freeway is the ‘motorway.’

Let’s make it even easier to keep track. Here’s a quick table of some of the most common British vs. American car words:

Knowing these can save you a lot of head-scratching moments, especially if you find yourself driving or buying parts in the UK. It’s not just about sounding smart—it’s about not getting the wrong part or driving in the wrong direction when someone gives you directions.

The Quirks of UK Windscreen Wipers

Drive a car in the UK, and you’ll notice windscreen wipers come with their own set of habits. First, most UK cars are right-hand drive, which changes how wiper blades move across the glass. Countries that drive on the left, like the UK, often have wipers set up to clear more of the driver’s side, so the sweep pattern can look odd if you’re used to American layouts.

Another thing: intermittent wipe settings are practically a necessity thanks to the UK’s rainy reputation. Most cars come with several adjustable speeds for those never-ending drizzles and sudden downpours. Plenty of people are surprised by how detailed these controls can be—on some cars, you can choose exactly how often your wipers swipe, down to the second.

Rear wipers are also common on hatchbacks and estates. Don’t be surprised when even small cars in the UK have a rear windscreen wiper, since parallel parking and reversing in constant rain is just daily life there. Some makes like Ford and Vauxhall even add a little spray jet with the back wiper, so grime doesn’t stand a chance.

Here’s a practical tip: if you’re renting or buying a car in the UK, always check where the wiper controls are. Sometimes the wiper stalks are on the opposite side of the steering column from what you’d expect in American cars. It’s easy to flip your turn signals or wipers the first week you drive there!

• If you hear Brits use brand names like "Bosch" or "Valeo," don’t worry—they’re just talking about wiper brands you probably know, too.
• A quick search for windscreen wipers instead of "windshield wipers" will get you way better results for UK parts online.
• In freezing weather, UK drivers often lift their wipers away from the glass overnight to stop them sticking. Worth copying if frost is in the forecast!

Tips for Drivers in the UK

If you ever find yourself behind the wheel in the UK, there are a few things about windscreen wipers you’ll want to know. First off, the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car, so the wiper controls usually sit on the opposite side of the steering wheel compared to what you might expect in the US. This throws a lot of travelers off at first.

British weather is famous for being unpredictable. Sudden showers are common, even if it was sunny just five minutes earlier. Most UK cars come with adjustable wiper speeds and automatic rain-sensing wipers as standard. Before driving, take a minute to check how to control the speed and the spray because you really don’t want to be fumbling for the switch in the middle of a downpour.

It’s also worth knowing that what’s called "washer fluid" in the US is "screenwash" over there. Double check the label if you need to top up at a petrol station. And don’t confuse the “windscreen” with “windscreen shield” or another awkward mash-up—locals will immediately spot you as a visitor.

• Switch your wiper blades every 12 months at least. The UK’s mix of frequent rain and road grime wears them down fast.
• Keep spare washer fluid or screenwash in the boot, especially if you’re traveling through the countryside where garages are less common.
• If you rent a car, ask the desk staff for a quick demo of all the wiper and washer controls. UK layouts can vary a lot—even on new rental cars.
• During winter, make sure wipers aren’t frozen to the windscreen before flipping the switch. Frozen blades can rip or damage the motor.

It’s a good idea to get familiar with the local car phrases. Not only does this help you avoid confusion with mechanics or at rental counters, but you’ll also look like you know your way around UK roads.