Do you have a hard time doing something about it when your windshield washer fluid freezes in the winter? Here are some steps you can take to solve the problem!
In sub-zero temperatures it often happens that the windshield washer fluid freezes due to a number of influencing factors. One of them is the fluid left in the container from the summer, which can cause headaches for many drivers. If you add winter fluid, it is usually not enough to prevent freezing in the cold. This can also affect the function of the windshield wiper system as water accumulates in it. In addition, the pump and the liquid container itself are also at risk of damage due to the expansion of the frozen water. Fortunately, there are proven defrosting methods you can use to prevent such complications. You can find out more about it below.
Why do you often find windshield washer fluid frozen in winter?
Although such products are specifically suitable for the winter period, their quality may vary, as well as there may be different reasons for freezing. Many drivers do not have a clear idea of the condition of the washer fluid in the tank and simply fill in new ones. Another reason for this can be pouring water and concentrate directly without pre-mixing both ingredients. As a result, you end up splashing a lot of the product while leaving more water in the reservoir because it can't mix on its own. This usually results in the windshield washer fluid freezing in the winter, which is usually the caseConsequences for the windshield wiper systemcomes along.
In addition, the volume of ice is about 10% larger than the volume of water created by thawing. Properly diluting the windshield washer fluid also reduces the risk of the container bursting because ice forms a loose mass. If that happens, you should still de-ice it so that it tooWindshield does not freeze, which can be done in various ways. The easiest, but also slowest option would be to park the vehicle in a warm underground car park for a few hours. If this is not possible for you, you can consider the following options.
What could help defrost windshield washer fluid?
- Some vehicles have easy-to-dismantle reservoirs in which the liquid can be defrosted more quickly with hot water after it has been removed. However, this should be done gradually, using lukewarm water first and then hot water to prevent the tank from bursting.
- However, on newer car models, the fluid reservoir is often located behind the front bumper, making disassembly difficult. In such cases, one option is to fill the container with concentrate almost to the top and use an air compressor. You can then use the hose to pump air into the washer fluid for a few minutes. The incoming air bubbles promote heat transfer and thus accelerate defrosting.
- Using a similar method, windshield washer concentrate can be refilled into the tank using a hand pump and hose and the melted mass can be pumped out. Repeat the process with small amounts of the concentrate until everything is thawed.
- Another trick you can try is using a hairdryer if your windshield washer fluid is frozen in the winter. Simply direct the stream of hot air towards the neck of the container and also try to heat the side walls with it. This is a gentle method for the car parts, although it does require some patience.
- A similar approach is to attach one end of a hose to the exhaust pipe and point the other end at the frozen part. In this way you direct the warm exhaust gases into the expansion tank, although you should definitely wear respiratory protection. This method is also used to de-ice the brakes.
- Some drivers defrost already frozen liquid by adding salt. This especially helps to thaw the remaining wiper fluid from the summer if you are surprised by the cold season. The liquid can also be diluted with salt for the winter months. However, you should not use this solution too often as it can cause corrosion of metal parts.
What else should you take into account when maintaining the windshield wiper system?
With high-quality products that you pour in the right proportions, the liquid should generally not freeze. However, in some situations, another problem that is often confused with windshield washer fluid freezing can occur.
- Many motorists are not aware that manufacturers use different dyes to give the fluid the appropriate beautiful color.
- Windshield wiper fluid normally contains isopropyl alcohol and water, with the coloring achieved by the additives mentioned. These additives can have a negative effect on the entire windshield wiper system.
- Unfortunately, not all of the fluid's ingredients reach the windshield when it is sprayed. In this way, the dyes remain in the system and accumulate in hoses and nozzles over time. The isopropyl alcohol and water will eventually evaporate, but the dye particles will not.
- This process repeats itself over time, which is why sooner or later the nozzles become clogged due to the growing layer of precipitated dye. This is an insidious situation that leads many car owners to believe that their windshield washer fluid nozzles are frozen in the winter. They then try to solve the problem by defrosting with heat, which only leads to frustrating results. In such cases, servicing the windshield wiper system with pure alcohol helps.
- Finally, it is important to regularly check the antifreeze level and the vehicle's cooling system. These are key components that prevent the engine from freezing in subzero temperatures.
Also read:Get rid of icy windows: With these home remedies and tips it works in a flash!
