Can mineral water be added to automotive windshield washer fluid?
2 Answers
Automotive windshield washer fluid should not be mixed with mineral water, as mineral water can dilute the washer fluid, reducing its effectiveness and potentially damaging the windshield wipers. The functions of windshield washer fluid include: 1. Cleaning the windshield to maintain clear visibility; 2. Providing antifreeze and antifog properties; 3. Offering antistatic, lubricating, and anticorrosive effects. The method for adding windshield washer fluid is as follows: 1. Open the hood and locate the washer fluid filler port; 2. Remove the cap and pour the washer fluid into the reservoir; 3. Observe the fluid level until it reaches the marked line. The characteristics of automotive windshield washer fluid are: 1. Cleaning capability; 2. Antifreeze performance; 3. Antifog performance.
After years of driving, I can tell you that adding mineral water to the windshield washer fluid is really not recommended. It might not be a big issue in summer, but when winter comes, it becomes troublesome. Mineral water contains a high amount of minerals and has a higher freezing point. Once it freezes, it can clog the entire wiper system, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, mineral deposits can gradually accumulate in the reservoir and hoses. Over time, the nozzles may get clogged, causing uneven spray and making the windshield streakier. I once tried saving money by adding some mineral water, and it left a white film on the glass, significantly reducing cleaning effectiveness. Professional windshield washer fluid is specifically designed with antifreeze and cleaning agents to protect the vehicle's system. For safe driving, it's best not to take risks—use the dedicated washer fluid instead.
