Can Tap Water Be Added to the Windshield Washer Reservoir?
4 Answers
Tap water should not be added to the windshield washer reservoir. Tap water lacks cleaning properties and contains impurities that may clog the washer nozzles. Always use windshield washer fluid to clean the front windshield. The benefits of windshield washer fluid are as follows: 1. Cleaning: It has the function of washing and removing dirt. 2. Anti-freeze: Windshield washer fluid can prevent freezing and quickly dissolve ice and frost. 3. Anti-fog: It prevents the formation of fog droplets, ensuring the windshield remains clear and does not fog up, which could obstruct vision. 4. Anti-static: It eliminates static charges on the glass surface, preventing static electricity. 5. Lubrication: The fluid acts as a lubricant, preventing the wiper blades from scratching the glass. 6. Anti-corrosion: Windshield washer fluid contains various corrosion inhibitors, ensuring no corrosion occurs on metal parts.
Having driven freight trucks for over a decade, I've learned to be cautious about adding tap water to the windshield washer reservoir. In winter, freezing can crack it, and clogged nozzles leave dirty windshields uncleaned; in summer, evaporation leaves scale that corrodes metal parts. Last time I took the easy route with tap water, the pump failed and cost me hundreds to repair. I recommend using dedicated washer fluid—it's freeze-resistant and dissolves grime, costing just a bit more than water. For safety, check fluid levels regularly; don't wait until rain blurs visibility. Unclear vision risks accidents, so I always peek before trips. Remember: never compromise safety to save pennies, especially on long hauls—keep tools handy.
I usually drive for commuting, and it's normal to want to save some money, but filling the windshield washer tank with tap water isn't worth it. It might be fine for short trips, but over time, impurities can settle in the tank and clog the pipes, especially in hard water areas; the nozzles may spray weakly, leaving streaks when wiping the glass. A money-saving method is to buy a bottle of windshield washer fluid and dilute it or mix in some distilled water for emergencies. I personally look for discounted fluid at the supermarket and stock up, occasionally adding a bit of white vinegar for antifreeze. Remember not to use purified water—it lacks lubricants and can wear out the wipers. Regularly changing the filter can extend the system's lifespan, saving money while staying safe.
I've driven old sedans where adding tap water to the windshield washer reservoir was routine. But experience shows it easily freezes in cold weather, expanding and cracking the pipes; when nozzles clog, the spray becomes uneven. Dedicated washer fluid contains additives that prevent freezing and remove deposits. If it were me, I wouldn't take the risk—check the reservoir monthly and don't skimp on the fluid. Saving small money only to spend big on repairs isn't worth it.
