Can I directly add tap water to the windshield wiper?
2 Answers
You should not directly add tap water to the windshield wiper. Tap water does not have cleaning properties and contains impurities, which may clog the washer nozzle. In winter, tap water is prone to freezing, and the expansion of frozen liquid can damage the washer fluid reservoir. It is recommended to use windshield washer fluid to clean the front windshield instead of tap water. If you run out of washer fluid, replenish it promptly. The windshield wiper, also known as a wiper blade, wiper, or windscreen wiper, is a device used to remove rain and dust from the vehicle's windshield, improving driver visibility and enhancing driving safety.
I don't think it's a good idea to directly add tap water to the windshield washer reservoir. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can clog the nozzles and reduce spray efficiency over time. It can also cause the rubber on the wiper blades to harden, resulting in noisy operation and poor cleaning performance.
In my own car, I once got lazy and used tap water, and soon after, the wipers started squeaking and the cleaning effect became terrible. I ended up spending over a hundred dollars at the shop to replace parts.
I recommend using dedicated windshield washer fluid or a homemade mixture like distilled water with a bit of alcohol. This provides both freeze protection and strong cleaning power. Maintaining clear visibility during rainy drives is crucial for safety, so don't overlook this maintenance detail.
Remember to check your wiper system every few months to prevent small issues from turning into big problems.
