What is the solution for a frozen car windshield washer reservoir?
3 Answers
The solution for a frozen car windshield washer reservoir is: Use a professional de-icing agent, add it to the reservoir, and spray it out after melting. The functions of windshield washer fluid are: 1. Keep the front windshield transparent while driving; 2. Extend the lifespan of the windshield and wipers; 3. Prevent window icing in winter; 4. Prevent static electricity on the windows. The method for adding car windshield washer fluid is: 1. Turn on the wiper switch, and the washer fluid will spray from below the front windshield; 2. Continue until the spray nozzles stop spraying, then open the washer fluid filler cap and add the fluid; 3. Turn on the wiper switch again to clear out any remaining washer fluid; 4. When no more fluid sprays from the nozzles, add washer fluid and securely close the filler cap.
This morning I found the windshield washer fluid wouldn't spray - the reservoir is probably frozen. Don't keep pressing the washer button forcefully to avoid burning out the motor. If you have a garage, drive in to let it thaw slowly. Without a garage, try adding two bottle caps of medical alcohol (liquor works too) to lower the freezing point. Alternatively, use warm water bags placed against the reservoir exterior - never pour boiling water directly! The mechanic mentioned during last repair that for severe freezing, you might need to remove the sound insulation near the reservoir and use a hair dryer. If urgently needed, buying professional windshield de-icer from auto parts stores is easiest. Remember to completely spray out the thawed fluid and replace with antifreeze washer fluid (at least -25℃ rated).
I've encountered this too, and here's a simple three-step solution: First, move the car to a sunny spot and let it thaw naturally for two to three hours—this is the safest method, and it also softens the wiper blades. Second, turn the heater to the highest setting and direct it at the windshield for half an hour while activating the defogging mode inside the car, as the heat can reach the water tank area. Third, as soon as the spray function works, head to the supermarket to stock up on antifreeze windshield washer fluid by the case. A small tip: many modern cars have hidden water tank openings, so after thawing, you need to spray continuously for twenty seconds to clear any remaining water in the pipes. Otherwise, if temperatures drop overnight, it might freeze up again.
