Windscreen Wipers UK – How to Pick, Fit and Keep Them Road‑Ready

If your view gets blurry every time it rains, you know how important a good set of windscreen wipers is. In the UK you also need to stay within MOT rules, so choosing the right blades isn’t just about comfort – it’s a legal must.

Choosing the Right Wiper Blades for Your Car

First, check the size. Your owner’s manual lists the exact length for the driver’s and passenger’s sides. If you can’t find the manual, a quick search for your car’s make, model and year will give you the numbers.

Next, look at the blade type. Most UK drivers use conventional frame‑type blades – they’re cheap and work well on older windshields. Flat‑silicone blades are a step up: they cling better to modern curved glass and last longer, but they cost a bit more.

Don’t overlook the mounting style. Hook‑on, pin‑type and bayonet are the common fits. A mismatched hook means you’ll waste time trying to make it work, and the wiper could fall off in heavy rain.

Installing Your New Wipers – It’s Easier Than You Think

Most wiper kits come with a short guide, but the process is basically the same for every car. Lift the old blade away from the arm, press the release tab, and slide the old piece off. Align the new blade’s connector with the arm, push it until you hear a click, and give it a gentle tug to make sure it’s locked.

Test the wipers on a wet windshield. If they skip or leave streaks, double‑check the fit and make sure the arm isn’t bent. A crooked arm can ruin even the best blade.

Now for the MOT part: the law requires wipers to clear the whole driver’s side of the windshield in a single sweep. If your new blades don’t reach the top corner, you’ll need a longer blade or an adjustable arm. During an MOT, the examiner will spray water and watch the wipe. If it fails, you’ll need to fix it before the test.

Regular care keeps the blades performing. After each rainy day, lift the wiper arm and wipe the rubber with a damp cloth to remove grit. Replace the blades every 6‑12 months, or sooner if you notice squeaking, skipping or a split edge.

For UK drivers, winter means more salt and grit on the road. A quick rinse with a hose before the first snowstorm can prevent the rubber from drying out and cracking.

Finally, a quick tip on storage: if you ever need to remove the wipers for a long period, prop the arms up so the rubber doesn’t stay pressed against the metal. This avoids permanent deformation.

By picking the right size, type and mount, fitting the blades correctly, and keeping them clean, you’ll enjoy clear vision in any weather and stay MOT‑compliant. Need a new set? Visit Northwich Tyres Centre for a full range of UK‑approved wipers and professional fitting on the spot.