Is it okay to leave windshield washer fluid in the car when it's cold?

[LeJade]

If you are still using ordinary windshield washer fluid, it may freeze. Therefore, to better protect your vehicle, it is advisable to choose a suitable antifreeze windshield washer fluid during winter. Preventing windshield washer fluid from freezing: In addition to selecting antifreeze windshield washer fluid, pay attention to the type of antifreeze fluid. Generally, choose a fluid with a freezing point at least 10 degrees Celsius below the local minimum temperature to reduce the likelihood of the fluid freezing. Replacing windshield washer fluid: If the original windshield washer fluid is water or non-antifreeze, or if the antifreeze effect is poor, you need to drain the old fluid completely in winter and refill it with new windshield washer fluid.

[DeJameson]

The recent temperature drop prompted me to visit an auto parts store specifically to purchase -25°C (-13°F) antifreeze windshield washer fluid. I learned my lesson the hard way last winter when using regular fluid – the washer jets stopped working because the tubes froze. The mechanic explained that standard washer fluid is essentially purified water with detergent, which freezes at 0°C (32°F), potentially causing not just clogged nozzles but even cracked reservoirs in severe cases. Now I make it a ritual to switch fluids before winter begins, and I always stock up with a couple extra bottles. A good rule of thumb is to choose fluid rated for at least 10°C (18°F) below your area's record low – since our region hits -15°C (5°F), I opt for the -25°C version. Two years ago, I got burned buying a cheap off-brand that froze at -10°C (14°F), which was downright hazardous.

[DelJade]

Here's how I handled it: I just emptied out the remaining summer windshield washer fluid in my car a couple of days ago and replaced it with the -30°C antifreeze version. If you forget to change the fluid and it freezes, never force the washer button—burning out the motor could cost hundreds to repair. Last year, my neighbor's car had frozen fluid, and I taught him to thaw it overnight in a heated garage. The windshield washer reservoir is usually located at the bottom left under the hood—you can check if the plastic tank has frozen solid. Another tip is not to fill the antifreeze washer fluid to the brim, leaving some room for expansion when it freezes to avoid cracking the reservoir.