What kind of water should be added to the car windshield washer reservoir?
4 Answers
Special windshield washer fluid should be added to the car windshield washer reservoir. The functions of automotive windshield washer fluid include: 1. Cleaning performance: The surfactants in windshield washer fluid typically have wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing functions, which help clean and remove dirt; 2. Antifreeze performance: The presence of alcohol and ethylene glycol lowers the freezing point of the liquid, providing antifreeze protection; 3. Anti-fog performance: A monomolecular protective layer forms on the glass surface, ensuring clear and transparent visibility on the windshield. The windshield wiper is a blade structure installed in front of the windshield, composed of a motor, reducer, four-bar linkage, wiper arm spindle, and wiper blade assembly.
I've been driving for over a decade, and I advise against adding random substances to the windshield washer reservoir. Dedicated windshield washer fluid is the most hassle-free option, available at supermarkets for around ten yuan per bottle. In summer, the standard version suffices; occasionally adding tap water in emergencies is acceptable, but prolonged use can lead to nozzle clogging due to mineral deposits, weakening the spray. In winter, switch to an antifreeze type—freezing temperatures can cause the reservoir or pipes to crack, leading to costly repairs. To refill, open the hood, locate the round container or reservoir labeled for windshield washing, unscrew the cap, and pour carefully to avoid spills. I make it a habit to check the fluid level every few thousand kilometers and top it up promptly to prevent drying out. This ensures clear visibility and prevents wiper blade damage—safety always comes first.
I treat my car like a treasure, using only proper windshield washer fluid. While tap water may seem convenient, the impurities it contains can accumulate over time, corroding the pipes. Clogged nozzles can lead to costly repairs and may even damage the car's paint. It's advisable to opt for branded automotive glass cleaners, which effectively remove insect stains and oily films while minimizing wiping marks. Remember to switch to antifreeze before winter; freezing temperatures can cause the liquid to expand and damage the system—never take the risk. The refill point is at the marked reservoir under the hood; follow the manual's instructions and avoid overfilling. Regularly clean the nozzles to ensure even spray distribution, guaranteeing clear visibility for a worry-free drive.
Driving in cold regions for years, the windshield washer reservoir must be filled with antifreeze. In spring and autumn, regular windshield washer fluid is fine, but once winter sets in and temperatures drop, tap water or pure water can freeze and clog the nozzles, making it dangerous when you can't spray water while driving. I now use antifreeze rated for -15°C or lower, which costs around ten bucks at the supermarket—just fill it up to handle snow and ice. Remember to check the fluid level in advance; don't wait until it freezes to deal with it. A simple refill takes just two minutes to do yourself, ensuring safety and convenience.
