What's the Difference Between Expensive and Cheap Windshield Washer Fluid?
2 Answers
The difference between expensive and cheap windshield washer fluid is that the ordinary one has a minimum operating temperature of -15 degrees Celsius, while the expensive one can operate at temperatures as low as -25 degrees Celsius. Windshield washer fluid is commonly known as glass water. Relevant information about windshield washer fluid is as follows: Introduction: Commonly referred to as automotive windshield cleaning fluid, it is a consumable item in vehicle use. High-quality automotive windshield washer fluid is mainly composed of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. Functions: Cleaning Performance: Windshield washer fluid typically has functions such as wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing, thereby achieving the effect of cleaning and removing dirt. Antifreeze Performance: The presence of alcohol and ethylene glycol can significantly lower the freezing point of the liquid, thus providing antifreeze effects and quickly dissolving frost.
As someone who drives in the city year-round, I've gone through multiple windshield washer fluid choices, and the expensive ones are indeed much better than the cheap ones. The main differences lie in the ingredients and functionality: cheap fluids are usually just water and alcohol, with weak cleaning power—they spray thinly and often fail to clean stains properly. Expensive fluids, on the other hand, contain advanced detergents, antifreeze agents, and anti-fog additives. They instantly dissolve grease on the windshield without leaving streaks and won’t freeze in sub-zero temperatures, preventing wiper blades from getting stuck. Additionally, premium fluids often have a mild fragrance, making them less irritating to the nose and more eco-friendly. In terms of safety, cleaning your windshield directly impacts driving safety—since switching to premium fluid, my nighttime visibility has improved significantly. However, don’t blindly trust brand names; always check the ingredient label before buying and opt for an all-season antifreeze formula. For maintenance, I recommend using a bottle of high-quality washer fluid to extend your wiper blades’ lifespan.
