Can Windshield Washer Fluid Be Stored in a Hot Car?
2 Answers
Windshield washer fluid should not be stored in a hot car. High-quality windshield washer fluid is mainly composed of water, ethylene glycol, alcohol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. The alcohol and ethylene glycol can evaporate under high temperatures, causing the fluid to deteriorate. This shows that windshield washer fluid is not resistant to high temperatures and should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Therefore, it is not recommended to store it in a hot car. Hazards of storing windshield washer fluid in a hot car: Windshield washer fluid exposed to high temperatures in a car can pose safety risks. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the fluid to deteriorate. If used, the deteriorated fluid can corrode the rubber blades of the windshield wipers, fail to clean the windshield properly, and impair the driver's visibility, thereby compromising driving safety. Therefore, it is advisable to store windshield washer fluid in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent contaminants from entering. Additionally, avoid mixing summer and winter formulations and keep the fluid out of reach of children. Items that should not be stored in a hot car include: Car perfume: Sealed bottle products can expand due to gas buildup under high temperatures, making them prone to explosion. Perfume bottles made of crystal or glass can act like magnifying glasses when exposed to sunlight, focusing light on flammable objects and creating a significant fire hazard. Lighters: Standard lighters contain liquid butane, which is highly flammable and explosive. Butane can explode at room temperatures as low as 20°C. If the ambient temperature exceeds 55°C, the lighter's volume will expand, posing a serious danger. Power banks: Battery-based products like power banks can swell and potentially explode if left in a hot car for extended periods. Low-quality power banks that use substandard or modified lithium batteries are particularly unstable and hazardous.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I've seen many cases of people storing windshield washer fluid in hot cars, but honestly, it's quite dangerous. In summer, car temperatures can soar to 50°C or even higher, causing the washer fluid bottle to expand and deform. If it bursts and leaks, it could corrode the dashboard or stain the interior. The alcohol content in the fluid also tends to evaporate, reducing its cleaning effectiveness. I once made the mistake of leaving a bottle in my car, and it split open, spilling fluid all over the cabin—what a nightmare to clean up! I recommend not taking this risk. If you need to store it, keep it in a cool place at home or in the garage, ensuring the bottle is tightly sealed. This way, it's both safe and cost-effective. Before driving in hot weather, it's best to check the condition of your windshield washer fluid to avoid compromising driving safety over minor issues.
