Can I Add Tap Water to the Windshield Wiper?
3 Answers
You should not add tap water to the windshield wiper; instead, use dedicated windshield washer fluid. Below are the specific functions of automotive windshield washer fluid: 1. Cleaning Performance: Windshield washer fluid is formulated with various surfactants and additives. Surfactants typically have functions such as wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing, thereby achieving cleaning and stain removal. 2. Antifreeze Performance: It significantly lowers the freezing point of the liquid, providing antifreeze effects and quickly dissolving frost. 3. Anti-Fog Performance: It forms a single-molecule protective layer on the glass surface. This protective film prevents the formation of fog droplets, ensuring the windshield remains clear and transparent with a clear field of vision. 4. Anti-Static Performance: After cleaning with windshield washer fluid, substances adsorbed on the glass surface can eliminate surface charges, offering anti-static properties. 5. Lubrication Performance: With higher viscosity, it provides lubrication, reducing friction between the wiper and the glass to prevent scratches.
I usually drive to and from work, and I often see people adding tap water to the windshield washer reservoir for convenience, but this is a big mistake. Tap water contains scale and minerals, which can clog the nozzles over time, leading to poor spray performance and ineffective dust removal, directly affecting driving safety. I remember once after adding tap water, the nozzle got stuck, and water leaked into the engine compartment during car washing, costing me over a hundred dollars in repairs. Now, I always use store-bought windshield washer fluid or distilled water mixed with a bit of cleaner. In the rainy season down south, rainwater might just barely suffice, but it’s absolutely not suitable for northern winters—sub-zero temperatures can freeze and damage the pump. Developing this habit saves a lot of hassle; just a few simple steps can prevent major troubles.
As someone who values car maintenance, I firmly believe that using tap water is absolutely unacceptable. Firstly, windshield washer fluid requires a low freezing point and high cleaning power, while tap water can freeze and crack the system in winter, and contains fine particles in summer that may corrode the radiator and pipes. Secondly, professional fluids have special formulas to remove grease and insect residue, ensuring clear visibility and reducing accident risks. I've seen many people make this mistake, resulting in clogged nozzles or burned-out motors, doubling repair costs. I recommend choosing affordable antifreeze or adding windshield washer fluid, regularly checking the reservoir level, and always prioritizing driving safety.
