Will there be any problem if a car goes without windshield washer fluid for a long time?
2 Answers
There is basically no impact if a car goes without windshield washer fluid for a long time. Below is an introduction to windshield washer fluid: Windshield washer fluid: It can be categorized into regular windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze windshield washer fluid, and special anti-freeze windshield washer fluid. Adding windshield washer fluid: Open the front hood, locate the windshield washer fluid filler port, and fill it up to the marked line. Below is extended information on the performance and characteristics of automotive windshield washer fluid: Cleaning performance: Composed of various surfactants and additives, surfactants have functions of wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing. Anti-freeze performance: Significantly lowers the freezing point of the liquid. Anti-fog performance: Forms a single molecular protective layer on the glass surface.
The biggest problem of not adding windshield washer fluid for a long time is impaired driving visibility. Dust, insect remains, or stains left by rain will accumulate on the windshield. Using the wipers dry not only performs poorly but also tends to create noise. Especially in suburban areas or during rainy days, blurred vision increases the risk of accidents. I once drove on the highway without refilling the fluid in time, and the windshield became so dirty that I could hardly see the road signs, almost missing the exit. The cleaning agents in windshield washer fluid can dissolve these stains, while plain water alone is ineffective. Over time, the nozzles may also become clogged, leading to poor spray performance. Although it won’t immediately damage the car, for safety reasons, it’s recommended to check the reservoir monthly. By the way, in winter, choose an antifreeze-type washer fluid; otherwise, freezing in cold weather can damage the pump system. In fact, adding windshield washer fluid is very simple—a bottle from the supermarket costs just a few dollars, and the process takes only a few minutes. Don’t let a small oversight affect your driving experience.
