What Temperature Rating Should Winter Windshield Washer Fluid Have?
2 Answers
Windshield washer fluid is generally categorized into 0℃ fluid for summer use and -20℃ or -35℃ fluid for winter use. The appropriate temperature rating should be selected based on the season. In winter, the antifreeze performance should be the primary criterion for selection, and you should choose a fluid with a freezing point at least 10℃ below the local minimum temperature. Otherwise, when temperatures drop in winter, the fluid may freeze and become unusable, leading to issues such as failure of the washer fluid pump. Here are some precautions for using windshield washer fluid: 1. In winter, always drain the existing fluid completely before refilling with antifreeze washer fluid. 2. You can add water to the washer fluid reservoir, but the cleaning effect will be far inferior to that of proper washer fluid. Additionally, water does not provide any protection for the wiper blades. 3. If adding water to the washer fluid, use tap water rather than river water, as sediment from river water can clog the pump. However, regular tap water also contains impurities, which can accumulate in the rubber hoses over time and affect normal spray performance. 4. Summer and winter windshield washer fluids should not be mixed. Diluting the fluid will reduce its antifreeze performance.
I've been driving in the north for decades, where winter temperatures often drop to -20°C or -30°C. Choosing a -30°C windshield washer fluid is essential; otherwise, the nozzles can freeze and fail to spray water, making it dangerously hard to see the road at night. Every season change, I check the washer fluid reservoir to confirm the freezing point label, ensuring it’s at least 10°C lower than the local minimum temperature. For example, in Dalian, where winters average -15°C, I use -25°C fluid, which is readily available online or at auto parts stores. Never substitute with tap water—it can freeze and damage the hoses, and when sprayed, it compromises cleaning effectiveness. Regularly clearing ice buildup on the wipers is also crucial. Safety comes first; don’t overlook these small details to avoid being stranded with no help in sight.
