Can dishwashing detergent be used as a substitute for car windshield washer fluid?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to use dishwashing detergent as a substitute for windshield washer fluid due to certain safety hazards. Using dishwashing detergent to clean the windshield can lead to sediment buildup over time, which may corrode rubber pipes, clog the spray nozzles, and damage the motor. Here is some relevant information about windshield washer fluid: 1. Introduction: Commonly known as car windshield cleaning fluid, it is a consumable item in vehicle maintenance. High-quality windshield washer fluid mainly consists of water, alcohol, and glycol. 2. Functions: Cleaning performance: Windshield washer fluid typically has wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing functions, which help in cleaning and removing dirt. Anti-freeze performance: The presence of alcohol and glycol significantly lowers the freezing point of the liquid, providing anti-freeze effects and quickly dissolving frost.
As someone who has been driving for over a decade, I once used dish soap as a substitute for windshield washer fluid in an emergency and quickly regretted it. It was summer, and my car's washer fluid was empty, so I casually poured some dish soap mixed with tap water into the reservoir. At first, it seemed fine—it could clean off dust—but after a few uses, the nozzles got clogged, and the spray became uneven. When I took it apart, I found residue clumps inside. Later, when winter came, it got worse: the mixture froze on the windshield, causing blurred vision and nearly leading to an accident. Now, I only buy dedicated automotive windshield washer fluid, which contains antifreeze and lubricating agents, doesn’t corrode wipers or nozzles, and provides better cleaning. Although dish soap is cheap, the repair costs are higher, and it increases safety risks. Spending a few dozen bucks on proper washer fluid lasts a long time and saves hassle. Remember, small driving details affect big outcomes—don’t cut corners for minor savings.
