What Temperature Rating for Windshield Washer Fluid in Winter
4 Answers
In winter, you should choose windshield washer fluid with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the local minimum temperature. Here is relevant information about windshield washer fluid: 1. Cleaning performance: Windshield washer fluid is compounded from various surfactants and additives. Surfactants usually have functions such as wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing, thereby achieving the effect of cleaning and removing dirt. 2. Antifreeze performance: It can significantly reduce the freezing point of the liquid, thus playing an antifreeze role and quickly dissolving frost. 3. Anti-fog performance: A single-molecule protective layer forms on the glass surface. This protective film can prevent the formation of fog droplets, ensuring the windshield remains clear and transparent with a clear field of vision.
I often research car maintenance details, and the winter windshield washer fluid rating is a practical topic. The rating of the washer fluid refers to the lowest temperature it can prevent freezing, measured in degrees Celsius. For example, -30°C means it won't freeze until the temperature drops below -30°C. How to choose the right rating? It mainly depends on the lowest winter temperature in your area. For instance, in cold northern regions like Heilongjiang, where temperatures can drop to -40°C, you should opt for -40°C or lower antifreeze fluid. In warmer southern areas like Guangdong, where winters are mild, -10°C fluid is sufficient. Avoid using summer fluid, as it contains more water and is prone to freezing, which can clog pipes or even crack the reservoir. I recommend switching to high antifreeze fluid before winter arrives—don’t wait for problems to arise. When checking the label, ensure the rating matches your local climate. Brands like Kunlun are a good choice. This ensures smooth spraying while driving, maintains safety, and prevents obstructed visibility.
After driving for so many years, I've learned a lot about the freezing point of winter windshield washer fluid. I remember one time when it was -25°C and I hadn't changed the fluid—the windshield got dirty but nothing came out when I tried to spray, so I had to frantically wipe it by hand. Later, the reservoir even froze and cracked, costing me hundreds to repair. Since then, I've always paid close attention to the freezing point label. In the northern mountainous areas, temperatures can be brutal, and even -35°C might not be enough. I usually go for the -40°C specification. Don't skimp when buying—only high-freeze-resistant fluid works. Also, frozen pipes are the hardest to deal with; you'll need a warm garage to thaw them slowly. When changing the fluid, empty the old one completely and just pour in a new bottle—make sure to fill it up, don't leave it empty. This way, you can drive with peace of mind in winter, always keeping your windshield clear and avoiding a lot of repair hassles.
I was really nervous about the antifreeze level of windshield washer fluid when driving in winter for the first time. My husband taught me the simplest method: check how cold your region gets in winter. For example, in Beijing where temperatures can drop to -20°C, using -25°C fluid is safer. The bottle label indicates the freezing point, so choose the appropriate antifreeze grade at the supermarket. Switch to winter formula when autumn weather turns cooler—don’t delay. If parking outdoors, refill before temperatures drop below freezing. Keep a small bottle in the car for emergencies to prevent being unable to spray fluid and losing visibility. Just follow these simple steps to avoid frozen fluid, which can compromise driving safety and lead to costly repairs.
