Can Windshield Washer Fluid Freeze and Damage the Tank?
3 Answers
If the windshield washer fluid has antifreeze properties, it will not freeze and damage the tank. However, if the washer fluid does not have antifreeze properties, it can freeze and crack the tank. Automotive windshield washer fluids can be categorized into the following three types: 1. Regular washer fluid commonly used in summer, which contains insect-cleaning agents to quickly remove insect residues from the windshield. 2. Antifreeze washer fluid designed for winter use, ensuring that it does not freeze or damage vehicle components even when the outside temperature drops below -20°C. 3. Special antifreeze washer fluid that remains unfrozen at temperatures as low as -40°C, suitable for use in extremely cold regions of northern China.
Driving in winter, I personally experienced the trouble caused by frozen windshield washer fluid. Once in the low-temperature conditions of the north, I used plain water as washer fluid, and when the temperature suddenly dropped, the entire reservoir froze and expanded, cracking the plastic tank and damaging the connected water pump and hoses. This can indeed freeze and damage the reservoir because it's not made of freeze-resistant material—the pressure from the liquid freezing and expanding can cause breakage. It's recommended to switch to dedicated antifreeze windshield washer fluid in winter, choosing the formula ratio based on the lowest expected temperature, such as using a type with a lower freezing point for areas reaching -20°C. Regularly check the fluid level in the reservoir to avoid mixing with water. If you forget to switch and it freezes, don’t force the pump to operate; instead, thaw it slowly with warm water before repairing. Preventing small issues can save you from major repair costs and ensure safe, comfortable driving.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I know that frozen windshield washer fluid can actually damage the reservoir. In cold weather, if washer fluid without antifreeze components freezes into ice, its expansion can act like a hard stone lodged inside, potentially rupturing the plastic walls of the storage container and damaging the nozzles and pump lines. The key is to choose seasonally appropriate windshield washer fluid—standard types work fine in summer and autumn, but winter and spring demand products with a high negative freezing point, clearly marked with temperature ranges on the bottle. Don’t cut corners by using tap water. If it does freeze, avoid immediately activating the washer button to prevent motor burnout. Instead, let it thaw slowly in a warm place before replacing the fluid. Make it a habit to check before winter, ensuring the reservoir is full and the formula is correct. It’s a small but crucial detail!
