Can windshield washer fluid be mixed with water?

[DelAlivia]

Windshield washer fluid can be mixed with water, but purified water should be used. Tap water contains many impurities, which can adhere to rubber hoses over time and affect normal spraying. Long-term use may increase friction between the glass surface and the wiper blades, causing scratches on the glass. Below are the classifications of windshield washer fluids: 1. One type is commonly used in summer. It contains insect-removing adhesive to quickly clean insect residues on the windshield, addressing the issue of more flying insects in summer. 2. Another type is the antifreeze windshield washer fluid designed for winter use, which ensures that the fluid does not freeze or damage car equipment even when the external temperature drops below -20 degrees Celsius. 3. The special antifreeze type generally remains unfrozen at temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for use in the extremely cold regions of northern China.

[DelDominic]

I've been driving for over 20 years and encountered many issues with windshield washer fluid. Many people try to save money by adding water. Frankly speaking, adding plain water as an emergency measure in summer is acceptable, but don't use it long-term - the performance is far worse, especially during rain when it leaves streaks and doesn't clean properly. In winter, it's absolutely not advisable as frozen water can block the nozzles, leading to expensive repairs. Tap water contains many impurities like calcium and magnesium ions that can corrode the reservoir and pipes, eventually clogging the nozzles and requiring professional cleaning. Dedicated windshield washer fluid contains antifreeze and cleaning agents, providing more even spraying and safety. I recommend keeping some emergency washer fluid on hand - it's inexpensive and worry-free. Always check before long trips to avoid trouble.

[AngeloAnn]

Adding water to windshield washer fluid is a matter of safety. If you drive frequently, especially in winter or rainy conditions, the additives in washer fluid are crucial—they prevent freezing and remove oily residues, ensuring clear visibility. Diluting with plain water reduces effectiveness; unclean wiper sweeps increase accident risks. In severe winters, frozen water can burst pipes, leading to costly and hazardous repairs. I've seen numerous cases of clogged nozzles caused by water during vehicle maintenance, where accumulated impurities become difficult to clean. I recommend using dedicated washer fluid only—it contains alcohol and detergents suitable for all seasons, protecting the system's lifespan with hassle-free maintenance. Safety first; don't cut corners to save small change.

[McEmiliano]

When it comes to adding water to the windshield washer fluid, from a cost-saving perspective, you might save a few bucks—occasionally adding tap water in summer may be fine, especially when on a tight budget. But in the long run, it's not cost-effective. A bottle of windshield washer fluid costs just over ten yuan. Diluting it with water weakens its cleaning power, requiring more frequent sprays to wipe the windshield. Accumulated impurities may clog the nozzles or corrode the reservoir, leading to higher repair costs later. I’ve tried it in my family car—it works temporarily in emergencies, but it completely lacks antifreeze properties, posing a big risk in winter. So it’s best not to mix them. Buying a cost-effective dedicated product, which lasts over half a year per bottle, is both hassle-free and worthwhile.