Changing windshield wiper fluid: Don't wait too long

Created: 09/22/2022, 17:30

By: Simon Mones

Cars need different wiper fluid in winter than in summer.

But when is the right time to switch?

As temperatures drop, so does the risk of frost, snowfall and sleet.

So that the view from the windscreen remains crystal clear, well-maintained windscreen wipers and the right windscreen cleaner are important.

Because the summer variant is no longer sufficient;

it usually only contains water as a solvent - of course unsuitable in frost.

Therefore, in addition to changing to winter tires - which you can do yourself - the windshield wiper fluid must also be changed.

But when is the best time to do this?

Of course before the first frost.

Accordingly, Dekra advises making the switch in autumn when the summer cleaner in the cleaning agent tank has been sprayed empty.

The window cleaner should be changed in good time.

© Geisser/Imago

Changing windshield wiper fluid: Don't wait too long

But why is it necessary to change the window cleaner at all?

The answer is relatively simple: summer and winter windscreen cleaners differ in terms of the washing-active components.

The detergents are adjusted in their cleaning effect to the typical soiling of the respective season.

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In addition, winter window cleaners contain alcohols such as ethanol and glycols to lower the freezing point.

As a rule, there are also winter window cleaner concentrates, these are usually cheaper than ready-made mixtures and are diluted with water before use.

"This increases the cleaning effect as well as the yield," explains Dekra.

Change windshield wiper fluid: Do not mix cleaners

However, it is important to ensure the correct mixture with water so that the specified frost protection values ​​are achieved.

Therefore, the winter window cleaner should not be filled up with the summer cleaner that is still in the tank.

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Because if the summer window cleaner freezes, the windscreen is not cleaned properly.

Also, the expansion of the water as it freezes could damage the car's windshield washer system.

For example, cracks on plastic hoses and lines or on the storage tank are possible.

Changing windshield wiper fluid: Even mixed fluids can cause damage

Dekra also advises against using self-mixed antifreeze in winter.

The reason: the use of solvents is necessary to protect against freezing.

In addition, the cleaner must also be compatible with the material.

Otherwise there could be swelling or dulling of the paint or cracks in plastic headlights made of polycarbonate.

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