Can Tap Water Be Used as Windshield Washer Fluid in Summer?
2 Answers
Tap water can be used as windshield washer fluid in summer. Here are detailed explanations regarding the use of windshield washer fluid: 1. It is not recommended to use tap water as windshield washer fluid, but occasional use is acceptable: If you haven't purchased windshield washer fluid and your car runs out while you need to drive, you can use tap water as an emergency solution. Occasionally using tap water a few times won't cause issues, as long as it's not used long-term. 2. The drawbacks of using tap water as windshield washer fluid: Long-term use of tap water can clog the washer nozzles because tap water contains high levels of minerals, which can form scale. 3. Excessive use of tap water that remains unused for a long time can lead to water deterioration and bacterial growth: If tap water is left unused for an extended period, it can become foul-smelling, and using deteriorated water is certainly not ideal.
Can tap water be used as windshield washer fluid in summer? With decades of experience in auto repair, I've seen too many car owners suffer major losses trying to save money. Tap water may look clean, but it contains high mineral content. When sprayed on the windshield and evaporated, it leaves scale deposits. Over time, this clogs the nozzles, making them unable to spray water, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. In summer, high temperatures cause faster evaporation, leaving more residue. With less rain and more insects, unclean windshields impair driving visibility, creating hazards. Professional windshield washer fluid contains detergents to remove grease and lubricants to prevent wiper scratches. A few dollars for a bottle buys peace of mind. Don't cut corners for convenience. Regularly maintain nozzles by cleaning them with a needle, but it's best to directly purchase specialized fluid - it protects your vehicle and saves hassle.
