Is Windshield Washer Fluid the Same as Coolant?
2 Answers
Windshield washer fluid is not coolant. Below are the related introductions about windshield washer fluid: 1. Windshield washer fluid, commonly known as car windshield cleaning fluid, is mainly composed of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. 2. Based on its form, windshield washer fluid can be classified into solid and liquid types, featuring functions such as wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing. 3. The full name of coolant should be antifreeze coolant, which prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold seasons, thereby avoiding cracking the radiator and freezing the engine cylinder block. 4. Coolant consists of water, antifreeze, and additives. Depending on the antifreeze component, it can be categorized into alcohol-based, glycerol-based, and ethylene glycol-based types, offering functions like antifreeze, anti-corrosion, anti-scale, and anti-boiling.
Many people mistakenly believe that windshield washer fluid is the same as coolant, which is a major taboo when driving. Having driven for over a decade, I've seen novice friends pour windshield washer fluid into the coolant reservoir, resulting in engine overheating and malfunctions. Windshield washer fluid is specifically designed for cleaning the windshield, usually containing detergents and a small amount of antifreeze components. Coolant, on the other hand, is used to protect the engine from overheating, containing substances like ethylene glycol to prevent engine damage. Mixing them can lead to leaks, pipe corrosion, or even total cooling system failure, which can be extremely costly to repair. I make it a habit to regularly check my car: using store-bought specialized bottled windshield washer fluid, typically blue in color, and selecting the manufacturer-recommended coolant type as per the manual, testing its concentration seasonally to prevent freezing or boiling. Distinguishing between the two ensures safety and saves money on major repairs!
