How To Add Windshield Wiper Fluid Into Your Car?

Windscreen wiper fluid is used to clean the windscreen through the wiper blades and is designed for that purpose. Mechanics often perform a windshield wiper fluid top up after a Car Service but any person can add their own wiper fluid. Here at Peninsula Auto Clinic our professional Northern Beaches mechanic team after every car service will top up the car’s windscreen washer fluid. 

The best way to top up your windscreen wiper fluid is to:

  1. Determine if new fluid is needed
  2. Choose the wanted washer fluid suitable for the car
  3. Locate the washer fluid reservoir and unscrew the cap
  4. Slowly pour the new wiper fluid using a funnel 
  5. Screw the cap back on the reservoir and perform a windshield washer fluid test

How To Add Windshield Wiper Fluid Into Your Car

What is Windscreen Wiper Fluid?

The liquid that comes out of the car when the wipers are pressed to clean the windshield is the wiper fluid. Most fluids contain specific ingredients that are designed to clean the windscreens of common messes. This includes isopropanol, ethylene glycol, detergents, solvents and antifreeze components in the mix. These wiper fluids aim to remove bird droppings, debris, insects, road grime, dirt, dust and other common windscreen messes.

How Do I Add Windshield Wiper Fluid to My Car?

The windshield washer fluid is one of the most forgotten maintenance tasks of car owners. The washer fluid is specifically designed to be used on windscreens and remove any dirt, bird droppings, insects, road grime and more. When filling the car with fuel it is recommended to look at if the washer fluid needs topping up. To refill and add the windshield wiper fluid to the car follow these steps:

  1. If not already purchased, find a windscreen washer fluid that will be added to the car. There are many on the market that can be used to clean the windscreen. Most contain ethylene glycol, isopropanol, different solvents and detergents and also antifreeze properties to prevent them from freezing inside of the reservoir.
  2. Find the fluid reservoir that is located under the hood which is usually a tank with a fluid symbol on it and translucent or white in colour. Some cars will have two reservoirs, one for the front windscreen and one for the back.
  3. Remove the caps of the washer fluid reservoir and inspect the level of how much fluid is present. 
  4. If the fluid levels are flowing then carefully pour the new fluid into the reservoir. A funnel is recommended to be used to make it more accurate and less likely for liquid to go everywhere. Fill up the reservoir with the washer fluid until it is almost full. 
  5. Screw back on the cap, close the hood then perform a test to see if the windshield wiper fluid works. 

Can I Just Add Water Instead of Windscreen Washer Fluid?

The option of adding water into the washer fluid reservoir is an option but it does come with its risks. Water is a cheap option to add to be used as a windshield wiper fluid but it will not be as effective at cleaning. Where wiper fluids are designed to clean the windscreen, including removing dirt, insects and bird droppings, water will not be as effective. Water is cheaper and is better for the environment but it will not clean properly and can freeze inside of the reservoir. 

Mechanic Services with Windscreen Wiper Fluid

Most times auto mechanics will after a car service pour fresh washer fluids into the reservoir of the car. They will utilise effective liquids to ensure that the windshields can be properly cleaned. Most times it is included in the service costs and will only take a few minutes. Mechanics will know where to pour the liquid, how much and will carry out tests to ensure the system works as it should. 

Here at Peninsula Auto Clinic, our mechanics will pour new windshield washer fluids into the car after we have carried out car service work. After servicing and repairing cars, a part of our maintenance checkups is to refill the car’s windscreen wiper fluids. We use the most effective, environmentally friendly and powerful washer fluids for our customers. 

Professional Car Services and Northern Beaches Mechanics

Peninsula Auto Clinic is here to perform car service work on any car, including topping up windscreen wiper fluids in the cars we service. Each fully qualified Northern Beaches mechanic operates safely during every car service, no matter the car type or model. We utilise the best tools and techniques while ensuring we operate swiftly for both minor and major car services. 
From log book servicing to Car Repair work, our mechanics are here for every suburb, including Mona Vale, Narrabeen and Warriewood. For the best Northern Beaches mechanics trust Peninsula Auto Clinic, we are located at 7 Perak Street, Mona Vale!