What does 'Please add cleaning fluid' mean?
3 Answers
Please add cleaning fluid means: The car's glass cleaning fluid is low and needs to be refilled. Here is an introduction about refilling cleaning fluid: 1. When to refill cleaning fluid: Car glass cleaning fluid is a consumable in vehicle use. When it runs out, the system will remind the owner to add it promptly to avoid affecting normal use. 2. What is cleaning fluid: It refers to the car windshield washer fluid, commonly known as glass water. High-quality car windshield washer fluid is mainly composed of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants.
Last month, my car's windshield washer wasn't spraying water, and the dashboard displayed a 'Please Add Washer Fluid' alert. It turned out the windshield washer fluid had simply run out and needed a refill. That white plastic reservoir is usually located in the lower left corner of the engine bay, with a windshield symbol on its cap. Remember to buy dedicated washer fluid—tap water tends to leave mineral deposits that clog the nozzles. A friend's Mercedes had all its nozzles completely blocked from long-term tap water use, costing over 200 to flush the lines. Supermarket-bought concentrate mixed with distilled water offers the best value, while winter demands -25°C antifreeze formula. Be careful not to overflow during refills, as it can corrode paint. Check fluid levels every two months, especially before long trips—night driving without it is particularly hazardous.
Don't panic when you see the dashboard warning 'Please Add Washer Fluid'—it's just like your phone's low battery alert. Officially called windshield washer fluid, the reservoir is hidden under the hood. I usually buy large jugs at my regular gas station and top up about 1.5 liters each time. Always check the fluid type: standard cleaning formula works for summer, but northern winters require antifreeze versions. Last winter, a driver mistakenly used summer fluid, freezing and cracking the entire washer system. If you accidentally add tap water, flush the reservoir thoroughly within 2-3 weeks to prevent mineral deposits from ruining the wiper motor (a $10+ part). Wipe the wiper blades while you're at it for cleaner sweeps.
