Curious about how to change windshield wiper fluid?
When you have a dirty windshield, there’s nothing more frustrating than realizing you’re out of wiper fluid. Luckily, refilling the windshield wiper fluid reservoir is a quick and easy job.
Keep reading to learn the steps involved in refilling the wiper fluid reservoir and the various types of windshield fluid so you can have a squeaky clean windshield in no time.
This Article Contains:
- How to Change Windshield Wiper Fluid
- What Are the Different Types of Wiper Fluid?
- 3 FAQs about Windshield Wiper Fluid
How to Change Windshield Wiper Fluid
Changing your windshield wiper fluid is an essential car maintenance that ensures clear visibility while driving. Here’s a simple guide to help you do it:
Step 1: Locate the Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir
Depending on your car’s make and model, the washer fluid reservoir could be located in several places. However, it’s usually a white, translucent container on the side of the engine bay with a windshield or water symbol on the cap.
If you’re unsure, refer to your owner’s manual for guidance.
Note: If your rear window has a rear wiper, it may have a second washer fluid reservoir. The rear wiper reservoir is often located in the back of the vehicle, near the hatch or trunk area. It should also be a translucent container.
Step 2: Identify the Low and Full Lines
Once you’ve found the windshield washer reservoir, look at the low and full lines on the side. Double-check that the windshield wiper fluid level is low before topping it up. If your windshield washer reservoir is full but won’t spray, there may be a blockage in a hose or an issue with the washer fluid pump or sprayer.
You should schedule service at an auto repair store to diagnose the issue.
Step 3: Open the Reservoir Cap
Remove the fluid reservoir cap by twisting it counterclockwise. Some caps may have a hinge, so you may need to flip it open. If you removed the cap, be sure to set it someplace safe. When you refill the windshield wiper fluid and replace the cap, avoid putting it in dirt or debris so nothing contaminates the fluid.
Step 4: Add the Windshield Wiper Fluid
Pour the windshield washer fluid in carefully, using a funnel, until the wiper fluid tank reaches the “full” line. Keep a close eye on the fill line, as the wiper fluid solution can expand when heated. Wipe away any spilled fluid with a paper towel or a rag.
Step 5: Replace the Reservoir Cap
Once the windshield wiper fluid reservoir is full, clean the cap with a paper towel or rag to remove dirt or debris. Then, place the cap back on the wiper fluid tank and turn it clockwise to tighten it securely.
Step 6: Start the Vehicle and Check
Start the engine and activate the washer fluid sprayers to ensure it works correctly.
Next, let’s explore the different types of windscreen washer fluid available to ensure you’re using the best one for your needs.
What Are the Different Types of Wiper Fluid?
While regular wiper fluid should be fine for most situations, a few fluid types are designed for specific conditions and purposes. These include:
- Standard windshield washer fluid: This is the run-of-the-mill blue liquid you can pick up at any auto parts store. It’s usually a mixture of water, methanol, and other glass cleaner additives. However, it has no antifreeze chemicals, so if you live in particularly cold weather, regular windshield washer fluid can freeze on your windshield and the reservoir, potentially causing it to crack.
- Bug splatter washer fluid: This fluid is especially effective at dissolving and washing away bug splatter, thanks to its strong cleaning power. It’s particularly handy in the summer and spring. It also doesn’t contain antifreeze.
- Water-beading windshield washer fluid: This washer fluid’s water-beading formula uses silicone and other glass cleaner chemicals to help water roll off the windshield. This can help improve visibility during heavy rain, but the chemicals tend to result in more streaking.
- De-icing windshield washer fluid: A de-icer can help break up stubborn ice and snow on your windshield when driving in cold weather during the freezing winter months.
- All-season windshield washer fluid: This is the jack of all trades of windshield washer fluids. It can withstand lower temperatures than regular washer fluid and includes additives for effective cleaning power on a dirty windshield.
You might still have a few questions about windshield wiper fluid. Let’s dive into them next.
3 FAQs about Windshield Wiper Fluid
Here are answers to some common wiper fluid questions:
1. Can You Use Plain Water to Refill Your Wiper Fluid?
While using water won’t cause any major problems, it’s not nearly as effective as windshield wiper fluid. Regular windshield washer fluid is designed to prevent streaking and not freeze in cold temperatures.
2. How Often Should You Fill Your Washer Fluid?
There is no hard and fast rule on when to refill windshield washer fluid. Unlike engine oil, washer fluid doesn’t break down over time. That said, you should still check the wiper fluid level every two months or whenever you schedule service for your vehicle.
3. Should You Check Your Windshield Wipers Too?
Yes, you should always check each wiper and maintain the wiper fluid. Windshield wipers and windshield washer fluid work together to ensure clear visibility and safe driving.
You should have your wiper blades replaced every twelve months. However, in colder climates, you should have a replacement blade installed more often. It’s a good idea to have them checked when scheduling your tire rotation or oil change.
See Clearly on the Road with AutoNation Mobile Service
Maintaining your windshield fluid and wipers is a simple yet essential part of car care. By regularly checking the windshield washer fluid reservoir and ensuring each wiper is in good condition, you can enjoy clear visibility and safe driving.
If you need any help to refill windshield wiper fluid, replace wiper blades, clear a blocked hose, or fix the washer pump, contact AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution offering transparent pricing and a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty on all our services.
Contact us today for any car maintenance needs.