When it comes to keeping your car clean, the windshield washer fluid is an important part of the process. But do you know when and how to dilute it?
In this article, we will discuss whether or not you should dilute your windshield washer fluid, what to do for best results, and when you shouldn’t dilute. We will also provide some tips on how to keep your windshield clean!
General Rule About Diluting Windshield Washer Fluid
As we all know, windshield washer fluid is used to clean our windshields. But what many people don’t know is that you might not always need to dilute it. In fact, depending on the climate and temperature, it could be better to keep it concentrated.
If you live in a colder climate, for example, your washer fluid will likely freeze if it’s diluted with water. Then you’d be left without anything to clean your windshield off with if it freezes over. So if you don’t want to risk having a frozen washer fluid reservoir, it’s probably best to keep it concentrated.
Is Diluting Windshield Washer Fluid Necessary?
It’s not always necessary, but it’s a good idea if you live in warmer climates. For people living in warmer climates, diluting the windshield washer fluid might be a good idea. This is because concentrated washer fluid can dry out your windshield wipers.
When this happens, they become less effective at clearing water and debris from your windshield, and also add extra cost to your regular automobile maintenance. So if you want to prolong the life of your windshield wipers, it’s best to dilute the washer fluid in warm weather.
What’s the Best Way to Dilute Windshield Washer Fluid?
The best way to dilute windshield washer fluid is by using distilled water. The most common water to wiper fluid ratio is 1/1. It’s important to use distilled water because it doesn’t contain any minerals that could build up on your wipers or leave streaks on your windshield.
If you don’t have distilled water, you can also use regular tap water. Just be sure to change it out more often to prevent streaking and build-up on your wipers. Another option is to distill your own water, which can be done easily at home with just a few simple kitchen tools; however, it may take a while to collect enough to be able to use.
How Much Washer Fluid Should You Put In?
Filling your windshield washer reservoir is easy. First you’ll need to locate it by following the instructions in the manual for your specific vehicle (if you don’t already know where it is).
Then pour your washer fluid/water mixture or premixed fluid into the reservoir. Be careful not to spill any over the sides. A funnel can be useful if you have shaky hands. If you can’t see the max-fill line, then fill your reservoir up to three-fourths and you’re good to go!
Tips for Keeping Your Windshield Clean
There are a few things you can do to help keep your windshield clean and streak-free. First, make sure you use the right kind of washer fluid for your climate. It’s also a good idea to clean your windshield often.
A good rule to follow is to clean the windshield every time you stop to fill up for gas. This will build a habit of keeping your windshield clean. Also, make sure to check your wiper blades regularly so they don’t dry out and start to crumble.
Depending on the weather throughout the year where you live, you should expect to change your wiper blades a minimum of one to two times per year.
What Is a Good Substitute for Windshield Wiper Fluid?
If you’re in a bind and don’t have any windshield wiper fluid, there are a few substitutes you can use. One is to mix one part water with one part vinegar.
This will work in a pinch but isn’t ideal since it can leave streaks on your windshield. However, it’s natural and won’t hurt your wiper system.
Another option is to use rubbing alcohol mixed with Castile soap and water. You’ll need about eight ounces of alcohol per gallon of water. Then add Castile soap and mix well. You’ll need to adjust the amount of alcohol in the mixture depending on the weather. For colder weather, you’ll need more alcohol and vice versa. This mixture is favored, as it won’t harm your wiper system or paint job.
You can also mix regular dish soap with two liters of distilled water. Make sure not to add too much dish soap because it will make the consistency too thick for your washer fluid system — less is more. Once you have a good consistency, finish it off by adding a half cup of ammonia. It’s important that the ammonia is additive-free.
Can You Use Simple Green for Windshield Washer Fluid?
Unlike Windex, Simple Green is free of chemicals that will damage your wiper system, making it a safe alternative if you’re in a tight spot.
You still need to make sure that it’s diluted with distilled water to prevent streaks and the buildup of hard minerals in your windshield washer system.
Can You Use Windex as Wiper Fluid?
No. Windex contains chemicals that are damaging to both your windshield wiper blades and the windshield wiper system in your car. Even diluting Windex with water poses a damage risk and should be avoided completely. It would be better to use only water if you had to choose.
Final Thoughts
It’s not always necessary to dilute your windshield wiper fluid. Some brands come premixed while others come in a concentrated form. It won’t harm the internal pump system to use undiluted washer fluid; however, it may dry out your wiper blades more quickly. For best results, limit dilution in colder climates to avoid freezing, and avoid using tap water at all costs. If you absolutely can’t avoid tap water, make sure to change it out more frequently.
