Will adding windshield washer fluid to the antifreeze affect the car?
2 Answers
If a small amount of windshield washer fluid is added to the antifreeze, the impact is not significant. However, adding a large amount can cause malfunctions. This is because windshield washer fluid lowers the boiling point of the antifreeze, preventing the engine from cooling effectively. Precautions for mixing antifreeze: Always use the same brand of antifreeze. Different brands of antifreeze may have varying production formulas, and mixing them could lead to chemical reactions between additives, rendering them ineffective. The key indicators of antifreeze are its freezing and boiling points. Market-available antifreeze comes in freezing points such as -15°C, -25°C, -30°C, and -40°C. It is generally advisable to choose an antifreeze with a freezing point at least 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in your region. Functions of antifreeze: Antifreeze is a coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It offers excellent performance in preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and resisting scale and corrosion year-round. The main components of antifreeze are: 50% purified water, 40% methanol, and 10% other substances.
This matter should be taken seriously. I've seen many car owners make this mistake, thinking it's no big deal to just add any windshield washer fluid. In reality, antifreeze is specifically designed to protect the engine's cooling system, containing anti-corrosion and anti-freeze components. Windshield washer fluid, on the other hand, is mainly used to clean the windshield and contains alcohol or detergents. Mixing them can dilute the antifreeze, reducing its freezing resistance, which can lead to freezing in winter. Even worse, it may cause internal pipe corrosion, rust, or clogging. In the long run, engine overheating could result in breakdowns and increased fuel consumption. If you accidentally add the wrong fluid, immediately take your car to a professional repair shop to flush the entire cooling system and refill it with new antifreeze. Don't try to cut corners by handling it yourself, or you might end up spending a fortune on repairs. Regularly check the antifreeze level to ensure only it and the appropriate coolant are in the system, keeping your car healthy for long-distance drives.
