Can drinking purified water be used as windshield washer fluid?
3 Answers
Windshield washer fluid cannot be replaced with drinking purified water, as purified water cannot thoroughly clean dirt on the windshield. It is necessary to use dedicated glass cleaner. Avoid using a mixture of dish soap and water, as although it can clean the vehicle's windshield, it has a corrosive effect on the wiper rubber strips, shortening the lifespan of the wipers. The method for adding windshield washer fluid is: 1. Open the hood and locate the windshield washer fluid filler port; 2. Open the cap and pour the washer fluid into the container; 3. Observe the liquid level until it reaches the marked line. The functions of windshield washer fluid are: 1. To clean the glass and maintain clear visibility; 2. To provide antifreeze and anti-fog properties; 3. To offer anti-static, lubrication, and anti-corrosion effects.
I understand the concern because you might be thinking about saving costs or dealing with an emergency, but using drinking purified water as windshield washer fluid is not advisable. Purified water is too clean and lacks specialized cleaning agents, making it ineffective for cleaning the windshield—dust and grease won’t be removed, leading to blurred vision while driving in the rain and increased safety risks. In winter, it can also freeze, clogging the nozzles or damaging the reservoir. I’ve tried it myself, and the windshield ended up streaky, nearly causing an accident. In the long run, the windshield washer system needs anti-corrosion protection, which purified water doesn’t provide, and prolonged use can corrode components, leading to costly repairs. I recommend buying bottled windshield washer fluid, which contains antifreeze and cleaning agents—it’s affordable and safe. If you’re temporarily out of fluid, you can mix tap water with a bit of dish soap as a temporary substitute, but don’t rely on it. Driving safety shouldn’t be compromised; this small expense is worth it.
To be honest, purified water may taste good but isn't suitable as windshield washer fluid. It lacks additives and has weak cleaning power; it won't effectively remove insect remains or mud stains when sprayed, which can be particularly dangerous during night driving. Based on my experience, long-term use of purified water can cause issues—nozzles may clog, and internal hoses can corrode, leading to potentially high repair costs. Windshield washer fluid costs just a few dollars per bottle and is specifically designed to protect the system and environment. Purified water lacks these benefits, and trying to save money this way might backfire. Making your own washer fluid is simple—just mix tap water with a small amount of alcohol or a dedicated cleaning agent for better reliability. Vehicle maintenance should be meticulous—safety always comes first.
