How to Deal with Frozen Windshield Washer Fluid?
2 Answers
Here are the solutions for frozen windshield washer fluid: 1. If you find that the fluid cannot be sprayed out when using it, and the washer fluid reservoir is full, it indicates that the fluid is frozen. Do not attempt to spray at this time, as it may damage the motor. 2. If the freezing is not severe, you can start the car and allow the engine's heat to gradually thaw the washer fluid. During the thawing process, avoid using the wiper function to prevent motor burnout. 3. Add some warm water to the washer fluid reservoir. Once the fluid is thawed, drain it completely to prevent refreezing. 4. When adding washer fluid in winter, if tap water was previously used, ensure to drain it completely. Mixing washer fluid with tap water can easily lead to freezing. While draining, you can continuously spray the windshield for a while until no more fluid comes out, then refill with washer fluid.
I've been driving for many years, and frozen windshield washer fluid is a common occurrence in winter. The solution is to avoid forcing the spray, as this could burn out the washer pump. The safest approach is to park the car in a warm garage or underground parking space, allowing the ice to melt naturally, which usually takes a few hours. If the outdoor temperature rises, you can also wait for warmer weather to address the issue. Never use hot water to rinse the nozzle area directly, as plastic components can expand and deform due to heat. Prevention is key—I always switch to a dedicated antifreeze windshield washer fluid in autumn, choosing a model rated for temperatures below -30 degrees. It's affordable and saves a lot of hassle. Additionally, regularly check the seal of the washer fluid reservoir cap to prevent water accumulation and freezing. A related point is that driving in cold regions with frozen washer fluid can be dangerous due to impaired visibility, and improper handling may lead to bigger problems, so caution is essential.
