The windshield wiper vs. turn signal thing is a big problem with me, too, but in my experience it has been that way only in Japanese-built cars. The Fords and Vauxhauls (British version of Opel) have them the same way around as U.S. cars.

After damaging a plastic wheel cover in France recently (fortunately I wasn't charged for it), I decided that maybe next time I'll start my rental by taking them off and putting them in the trunk.