What Causes Windshield Washer Fluid Not to Spray in Winter?
3 Answers
In winter, the most common reason for windshield washer fluid not spraying is that the added fluid lacks sufficient antifreeze capability and freezes. For example, in winter temperatures around -10°C, a washer fluid with a freeze resistance of 0°C is typically used. Other causes include clogged windshield nozzles, damaged washer pump or electrical faults, leaks in the washer fluid lines, or insufficient washer fluid levels. It is recommended to choose a washer fluid with antifreeze capability of at least -25°C or -40°C based on the winter driving environment. Here are the correct ways to use windshield washer fluid: 1. Spray it on the area to be cleaned, let it soak for 2-3 minutes, then wipe with a soft cloth or directly apply the cleaning solution with a soft cloth until the area is clear. 2. For heavily soiled areas, repeat the cleaning process and rinse with clean water, then dry thoroughly. 3. After dilution, it can be directly poured into the vehicle's windshield washer reservoir for use while driving.
Living in the north, it's very common for the windshield washer fluid not to spray in winter, mainly because the cold weather freezes the fluid into ice, blocking the pipes—especially when using plain water without antifreeze. The nozzles are also prone to freezing and sealing up; gently clearing them with a fine needle works, but avoid using too much force to prevent damage. If the reservoir freezes and cracks or deforms, it needs replacement. It's recommended to switch to windshield washer fluid labeled with a -30°C antifreeze rating before winter; there are many affordable brands available on the market. If it's frozen, you can drive to an underground garage and park for a few hours to let the ice melt, or start the engine and use the heater to blow warm air toward the nozzle area. Never pour hot water on it, as the plastic parts may crack. Make it a habit to check monthly in winter, and when adding antifreeze, avoid mixing types to ensure proper concentration. Safety comes first—clear visibility is essential to prevent accidents, especially when driving in snowy or windy conditions.
I often encountered this issue when repairing cars, with component failure being the main cause: for instance, nozzles clogged by frozen mud, water pump motors burnt out leading to no pressure, or pipes aging and cracking causing leaks. Self-inspection is straightforward: first, check if the nozzle holes are blocked. During a pressure test, listen for the water pump's sound—if there's a humming noise but no water sprays out, it's likely a nozzle issue; if there's no sound, the pump might be faulty. In winter, sudden temperature drops can easily cause pipes to expand and crack, making replacements costly. It's advisable to choose durable, antifreeze windshield washer fluid, such as those containing methanol, to avoid an increased freezing point. Related tips: Regularly clean the wiper system and water reservoir to prevent residue buildup, and inspect the vehicle's entire water system before each winter to ensure trouble-free use without compromising visibility safety.
